Climate change is one of the biggest threats currently facing humanity. In order to combat it, we need to start reducing our impact on the environment. One way we can do this is by making more eco-friendly choices and engaging in sustainable practices in our everyday lives, including our holiday homes.
Airbnb has expanded options within the hospitality industry by offering a variety of eco-friendly accommodations for their guests that are affordable, comforting and environmentally conscious. According to a study by Booking.com, 67% of travelers want to stay in an eco-friendly accommodation, making green Airbnbs in demand now more than ever before.
With energy costs on the rise, going green can, well, save you some green! If you would like to know more about how you can turn your rental into a sustainable Airbnb, let us lead the way and show you some of the best strategies and tips to create an eco-friendly home and a sustainable Airbnb hosting plan.
1. Adopt green cleaning practices
To reduce the use of harsh chemicals with damaging implications for the environment, it’s best to purchase dish soap, laundry detergent, and cleaning products that are non-toxic, low-toxic, biodegradable, and natural. There is a variety of household essentials that offer eco-friendly alternatives to current cleaning brands on the market, such as The Botanist, Ecover, and Baya.
Another excellent way to reduce waste and integrate environmentally-friendly alternatives into your Airbnb is by replacing single-use cleaning supplies, such as plastic sponges, disposable paper towels and wipes, with reusable microfiber cloths and sponges.
Did you know that toiletries can also be eco-friendly? Brands like Bambuyu create 100% bamboo toilet paper that is super comfy, super soft and super eco-friendly. Stocking your Airbnb with recyclable paper products is a thoughtful gesture that shows your commitment to sustainability.
2. Invest in energy-efficient appliances
If you are looking for a simple, effective way to reduce your bills and demonstrate your commitment to sustainability, then we recommend investing in energy-efficient light bulbs such as LED light bulbs. Not only can they be much more affordable, but they can use up to 90% less power than traditional bulbs and last up to 25 times longer.
One of the most significant advantages of a smart thermostat is its energy efficiency. It offers an economical way of controlling heating from your mobile phone and can allow guests to adjust the temperature of their living spaces. Smart thermostats can learn occupancy patterns and adjust heating and cooling accordingly. This capacity can significantly reduce energy consumption when your Airbnb is vacant, resulting in lower utility bills.
Be a bright spark and encourage guests to conserve energy by turning off lights, electronics, air conditioning units, or heaters when not in use. Simply turning off lights when not in use can not only reduce your carbon footprint but also serve as a cost-effective measure.
3. Issue waste management strategies
Nobody likes waste and one way you can minimize it in your Airbnb rental is by providing guests with reusable amenities such as stainless steel water bottles, refillable toiletry dispensers, and food storage containers.
When guests stay in a short-term rental, they often plan to utilize the kitchen and dine in during their stay. Considering this, guests are likely to frequent local shops to purchase ingredients — however, many may forget to bring a reusable bag. A thoughtful touch for your Airbnb is providing guests with canvas shopping bags, which serve as an excellent alternative to plastic bags. Not only does this save them from spending additional money while out, but it also makes a significant contribution to protecting the environment. These bags are durable, reusable, and have a low negative impact on the planet. Be sure to leave them by the front door so that guests can easily grab them when they’re ready to leave the property.
4. Add water conservation measures
The clear advantage of a low-flow shower head is its ability to conserve water. Modern low-flow shower heads are excellent additions to your Airbnb bathroom, capable of reducing overall water usage by as much as 40%. Investing in a low-flow shower head can also contribute to cutting down your energy bills significantly. By making this eco-friendly switch, you can save thousands of gallons of water every year.
In addition to installing low-flow shower heads, consider creating an Airbnb guidebook to further promote water conservation practices. Encourage guests to take shorter showers, turn off taps when not in use, and opt for reusable water bottles instead of purchasing single-use plastic. These simple steps can make a meaningful impact on reducing water waste and promoting sustainability during their stay.
Partner with Frank Porter for expert eco-airbnb upgrades
Implementing these small changes in your Airbnb hosting practices can truly make a difference for the planet. Embracing eco-friendly hospitality and sustainable practices not only benefits the environment but also fosters a greener and healthier planet for future generations.
At Frank Porter, we’re dedicated to helping you go the extra mile to enhance your guests’ stays while making a positive impact. We offer various assistance, including promoting your Airbnb’s green features on booking platforms and highlighting your commitment to sustainability. We can also help you partner with eco-friendly suppliers to provide sustainable toiletries, linens, and cleaning supplies in your homes. Additionally, we offer resources and information for your guests to minimize their environmental impact during their stay.
For further inspiration, explore our blog on how to create an environmentally responsible Airbnb experience.