In recent times, there have been calls for people and businesses to adopt sustainable practices. Tourists are also becoming more conscious of their ecological footprint. The goal is to create a safer and healthier environment.
As an Airbnb host, you have a role in ensuring that you leave the world a better place. Adopting eco-friendly practices aligns with the values of environmentally conscious guests, and it enhances the overall appeal of your property.
Going green is not only a responsible choice for hosts but also a rewarding way to contribute to a healthier and more sustainable planet. Herein, we explore eco-friendly practices for Airbnb hosts, ranging from energy-efficient upgrades to waste reduction strategies.
Community Engagement
Encourage your guests to support local vendors selling sustainable products or services. For example, provide information about local farmers’ markets and eco-friendly transport options. One way of creating a good rapport with your guests is by getting an Airbnb welcome book.
There, you can share information about local attractions, the details of local businesses, and so on. You can also invite the guests to participate in sustainable community events like tree planting. Other than the feel-good effect, your guests will leave knowing they have played a role in creating an eco-friendly space.
Encourage guests to explore the local community on foot or by bike. You can also provide electric bikes for your guests. In the end, such practices will reduce the carbon footprint associated with conventional transportation methods.
Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Adding energy-efficient features to your property is one of the best ways hosts can make their space eco-friendlier. The best thing is that there are a lot of options on the market. Consider switching to LED lighting on your property.
LED lights have a longer lifespan and are up to 80% more efficient than other lighting options. You can go further by installing LD lighting with motion sensors to prevent wastage when no one is around. Overall, you will reduce both electricity consumption and the frequency of replacements.
Installing programmable thermostats can also help regulate heating and cooling systems more efficiently. Hosts can set specific temperature ranges, depending on the time and season, ensuring that energy is not wasted when the property is unoccupied.
You can go off-grid by switching to solar energy. Even though the initial installation cost can be expensive, the long-term benefits are worth the investment. Besides that, you will also also benefit from federal tax credits.
Water Conservation Practices
Water wastage can happen in many ways from faulty plumping to inefficient appliances. Adopting water conservation methods is a critical aspect of eco-friendly hosting. You can start by installing low-flow taps and showerheads in your bathroom and kitchen areas. These devices will prevent water wastage, especially from guests who love taking long showers.
Educating your guests on the need for water conservation will also go a long way. Create little notes about water wastage and place them near sinks or in the kitchen. Moreover, encourage them to promptly report any leaks within the property.
Another way to reduce water wastage is by implementing a rainwater harvesting system. The water can be treated and used in the shower or kitchen. Besides spending less on your water bills, collected rainwater can also reduce reliance on traditional water sources.
Eco-Friendly Amenities
Ensure that the amenities and supplies provided at your Airbnb are eco-friendly. Provide organic solutions like eco-friendly cleaning supplies and toiletries. Also, encourage guests to choose products with minimal environmental impact.
Adopting sustainable waste collection practices is also important. Replace plastic utensils with ceramic or stainless-steel options. Also, encourage the visitors to separate their kitchen waste into organic and inorganic bags for easy collection and recycling.
Installing a filter on your kitchen faucet or providing clean drinking water will discourage guests from purchasing bottled water, reducing plastic waste.
Green Landscaping
Nature is life. Whether your property is located within the city or on the outskirts, investing in greenery is an excellent idea. Besides making the place look exceptional, plants can also create a sustainable landscape.
Choose native plants that don’t require regular maintenance. Implement a drip irrigation system to ensure that the plants look healthy all year round without wasting water. While you’re at it, avoid using inorganic pesticides and fertilizers as these can harm local ecosystems.
Waste Reduction and Recycling
Wastage reduction strategies are the epitome of sustainability in hosting. Provide labeled recycling bins and information on local recycling guidelines. This will make it easy for guests to dispose of waste appropriately.
As mentioned, discourage the use of single-use items on your property. Providing water dispensers, toiletries, and snacks in bulk will discourage visitors from bringing plastic bottles and bags into the house. Educate guests on the benefits of reducing single-use plastic to create awareness and foster a culture of sustainability.
If you have enough space on your property, consider creating a compost. A compost system will reduce waste from landfills. The nutrient-rich compost can be used in your kitchen or flower garden.
Sustainable Furnishings
Hosts can opt for sustainable and eco-friendly materials when furnishing and decorating Airbnb properties. Consider using recycled furniture to reduce the demand for new resources. Instead of buying a new set of sofas, why not upholster? It is cheaper and more eco-friendly than ordering new furniture.
Select flooring options made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo or reclaimed wood. Besides being eco-friendly, the materials are energy efficient and will reduce the need for having heated flooring on your property.
Summing Up
Airbnb hosts can play a pivotal role in shaping a more responsible and eco-friendly hospitality industry. These additions and practices position your property as an attractive option for environmentally-conscious travelers.
Even though implementing certain features can be expensive, the returns are worth it in the long run. Embracing sustainability is not only a responsibility but also an opportunity for Airbnb hosts to contribute to a more sustainable future.
The property rental business is very competitive. As a host, you must look for ways to make your property more homely and sustainable to stay ahead of the competition.
