The hospitality industry is evolving, bringing a greater responsibility to tackle environmental challenges. Hotels generate large amounts of waste such as fabrics, plastics, and food scraps, making sustainable solutions more important than ever. By embracing upcycling, hotels can turn this waste into useful, eco-friendly products like tote bags from old linens or coasters from coffee grounds.
This not only reduces landfill waste and carbon emissions but also supports local artisans, strengthens community ties, and promotes sustainable practices. Upcycling enhances the guest experience while reinforcing a hotel’s commitment to ESG principles and attracting eco-conscious travelers.
Hotels can show their commitment to sustainability by turning waste into useful and beautiful guest amenities. For example, unused bed linens and curtains can be made into tote bags, pouches, or cozy slippers. Leftover fabrics can also be turned into room décor like cushions, bed runners, or even creative wall art, all adding charm while reducing waste.
Hotels can also get creative with kitchen waste. Used coffee grounds and eggshells can become unique coasters or serving boards, while used cooking oil can be made into fragrant soaps or candles. These sustainable touches not only enhance the guest experience but also reflect the hotel’s dedication to reducing environmental impact in thoughtful, memorable ways.
Several Hotels Have Embraced Upcycling With Us
Alila Hotel SCBD Jakarta turned plastic waste into keychains that double as phone stands, creating a practical souvenir that reinforces its commitment to sustainability. This initiative showcases how waste can be repurposed in innovative ways.
Signata Hotel Genting Highlands Malaysia repurposed unused batik fabrics into hotel amenities and guest souvenirs, including fans, cushions, bolsters, bed runners, and wall art. By sourcing 45kg of local batik, the hotel supports artisans while blending cultural heritage with sustainability.
Joining the Movement Toward a Circular Economy
Hotels can lead in sustainability by upcycling waste into useful and decorative items, enhancing guest experiences while helping the environment. Embracing upcycling strengthens ESG efforts and inspires guests and communities to support a greener future. Let’s work together to turn waste into beauty and create eco-friendly experiences that make a lasting impact.