What are green products?
Examples
- Products that are energy, water and resource efficient.
- Made with minimum use of virgin materials.
- Non polluting in manufacture.
- Materials re-usable and recyclable.
- Products often have eco labels and certifications schemes.
Click for our Product Showcase of Green Items.
Products and suppliers must conform to our green policy and pre-qualification process.
If all other factors are similar (price, quality, service, maintenance and resupply etc), a local supplier may be chosen over a remote supplier as the reduced distances reduces risks and in addition represents a positive environmental benefit.
Green ideas
Glass racks and glasses
Good quality glass racks and glass rack trolleys in sufficient quantities will reduce breakages when being washed, transported and stored.
Heavy bases and long stems will increase breakages when glasses are washed and drained.
Hairdryers
Swivel switches to be used.
Ironing centre
Timer on iron.
Newspapers
Place news papers at central location like lobby and therefore reduce newspaper usage
Newspaper “cane” type holder often provided by hotels.
Lift Lobby (Guestroom Floors) recycling bins
Consider having a recycling bin next to ashstand/bin
Energy Efficiency
If purchasing appliances rated under the EU’s environmental labelling scheme, check the energy efficiency of the model concerned. If an appliance is not rated under this scheme ask the supplier for details of the normal power consumption. This should help to determine the overall cost of buying and using an appliance.
Minibar
Use glass door so client does not need to open door to see products and therefore using more energy to re cool . Ensure good insulation, improved energy transfer surfaces, more precise temperature and defrost
Linen
The higher the thread count the longer the linen lasts
Batteries
Batteries contain Cadmium, Lead and Mercury and usually end up in landfill sites after use. Where possible mains electricity should be used in preference to batteries, or rechargeable batteries should be purchased as these may be used up to 500 times before disposal
Renewable
- Uses renewable materials eg cotton sheets. towels, table cloths, furniture,
- Made with minimum use of virgin materials.
- Made with maximum use of recycled materials.
- Non (or reduced) polluting
Photocopiers
Take into account the capital but also running and disposal costs? Ensure that office machinery which is purchased has energy saving devices incorporated such as “sleep facilities” on photocopiers, PCs and printers. Must be able to use recycled paper Should provide a duplex function .
Printers
Must be able to use recycled paper.
Should provide a duplex function .
Wheely Bins
For recycled cans, glass paper, plastic. Coloured wheely bins to be provided.
Compacters for compacting paper and cardboard.
Vacuum cleaners Eco vacuum cleaners. Low noise .Easily repaired and upgraded with guaranteed stocks of replaceable parts
Foams
Ensure any furniture foams do not contain CFCs or HCFC
Lamps
Dimmer switches on lamps will use less energy . Use LEDs or CFLs.
Timber Furniture
Timber from tropical rain forests is being destroyed at around the rate of 20 million hectares each year. Tropical hardwood is typically used in furniture, insulation, packaging, fittings and doors.
The Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) oversees the certification and labelling of products that have come from sustainably managed forests. There are now more than 8 million hectares of FSC certified forests throughout the world. It is preferable to buy products that have been FSC certified, look out for the FSC tick mark on products.
- MDF and chipboard use recycled wood.
- Check that the furniture comes with comprehensive maintenance and repair instructions.
- Check with the supplier/manufacturer of furniture to see if any plastic fittings on furniture are coded to facilitate recycling.
- Preferably any plastic and metal fittings should be made from post consumer waste.
Internal Plants
The production or supply of some products is harmful to wildlife, which in turn can adversely effect the environment. Do not purchase or specify:
- Plants and bulbs taken from the wild (many are protected by law)
- Products whose extraction can be harmful to the environment such as peat, water worn limestone, coral and natural sponge.
- Products from animals on the endangered species list.
Doors
Specify spring loaded plastic flap doors to shut the door and save electricity.
Architecture
Use energy saving materials and techniques
- Thermographic images to ensure building is air tight .
- Up to date ventilation and HVAC .
- Building management system.
- Energy efficient lifts.
- Energy saving lights, dimmers and motion detectors.
- Key activated lighting in rooms (3 star).
Compact Fluorescent Lamps(CFL) v Light emitting diodes (LED)
LEDs are more expensive in up front cost but less expensive in the long term as they last longer and use less energy. CFLs produce more heat which may be a problem in recessed lights. LEDs last longer . LEDs more robust. LEDs use 35-50% less energy than LEDs. LEDs have better dimmability. LEDs are good with solar panels as they use less energy. LEDs more variety. -diffused, dimmable, tracking lighting, resessed, candelabra, tube.
Wood preservatives containing pentachlorophenol, lindane or tributynin should not be purchased (or woods treated with preservatives containing such substances)
Avoid CFCs
Local Sourcing
Domestic Sourcing
Advantages of Domestic Sourcing
Fast Delivery
Domestic sources are usually closer to the hotel than ‘imported sources’. Sources like raw materials, services or products can be delivered in shorter periods of time compared to foreign sources. After sales, exchange or refunds of faulty products will benefit as well; as it is always easier to communicate with local business rather than international cooperations. Further, there is also quicker reaction to emergency situations or faster decision making to uncertainties in the market.
Consumer confidence
Japanese green tea bottle label identifying the tea as having been grown in Japan
Shorter time for transportation could ensure that products such as food and drinks stay fresh. It is statistically proven that domestic sourcing increases consumer confidence; according to a report by IGD, 57% of consumer who consider buying local food because it is fresher.[2] It may also influence a consumer’s decision when it comes to multiple options; with a domestic sourcing strategy, selling local products can help to gain support from consumers who are concerned about the origin of the product that they are buying for political, ethical, or environmental reasons.[2] It is also persuasive to tell consumers that local products are quality assured; buying with confidence is a very important aspect for retailers to gain trust from consumers, subsequently increasing brand awareness and loyalty[3].
Cost benefit
Business or retailers who have strong relationships with local suppliers do not have to go through a long supply chain which will help to reduce the cost of sales, resulting in attracting more consumers with a lower selling price. Less transportation between the supplier and retailer may also reduce the selling price as transportation costs are cut.
Job opportunities
Increases in domestic sourcing rather than international sourcing will increase the job opportunities for locals. If all local business supports domestic sourcing, and the demand for domestic sourcing will increase, more job opportunities is then created to meet the new demands.
Benefits to the local economy
According to IGD report, over 54% of consumers buy local food as they feel obliged to support local producers and farmers in 2006.[2] An increase in domestic sourcing for the labour force would benefit the economy of the state or country by increasing the circular flow of income; it is estimated that every £10 spent on local product is worth a £25 increase in the circular flow of income of the local economy.[4] When there is an increase in demand for domestic sourcing, local suppliers have to hire more people to meet the boost in the demand, these new workforces will spend more money in the local economy which will thereafter produce a positive multiplier effect. Further, local business tend to give more wages than most corporate chains, which means that employees will receive more disposable income.[5][6]
Protecting local culture
There are many local business selling unique products or services such as handcrafting or tailored products that nowhere else can offer; supporting domestic sourcing could prevent large corporate chains taking over the high street, preventing small business from being eliminated. Domestic sourcing also encourages more entrepreneurs to start small businesses in local markets.
Time Zone advantage
Firms that support domestic sourcing or manufacturing could enjoy the benefit of having the same time zone with the supplier, which means quicker respond from supplier for any enquiry or questions, sometimes a couple of minutes of delay in solving problems could cost millions for the business, it is always good to be easy to communicate supply.
Disadvantage of Domestic sourcing
Trade war / Price war
Domestic sourcing campaign may trigger trade war globally. When one country starts to encourage their citizens to buy domestic goods, there are usually resistances from other countries. As result of that, poorer countries with significant disadvantage may be forced to add levy against a certain country. The most recent example of trade war happened in 2013 when EU claimed that China is selling solar panels below the average cost which resulted in lesser demand for solar panels made in Europe, which then led to trade war between China and EU.[14]
Import
Certain domestic goods can be very expensive compared to other countries, so business that attempt to sell locally can find sales hurting if demand for such products are low.
Export
Export firms who chose to use more expensive domestic resources may lose their competitiveness in the global market due to higher cost of production, oversea demand will shrink eventually and with a consequence of a negative balance of trade and affect national GDP (Consumption + Investment + Government spending + (Export – Import))[15]
Green certificates
ISO 14001 Certification from main suppliers
The ISO 14000 family addresses various aspects of environmental management. It provides practical tools for companies and organizations looking to identify and control their environmental impact and constantly improve their environmental performance. ISO 14001:2004 and ISO 14004:2004 focus on environmental management systems. The other standards in the family focus on specific environmental aspects such as life cycle analysis, communication and auditing.
ISO 14001:2015
ISO 14001:2015 sets out the criteria for an environmental management system and can be certified to. It does not state requirements for environmental performance, but maps out a framework that a company or organization can follow to set up an effective environmental management system. It can be used by any organization regardless of its activity or sector. Using ISO 14001:2004 can provide assurance to company management and employees as well as external stakeholders that environmental impact is being measured and improved.
The benefits of using ISO 14001:2004 can include:
- Reduced cost of waste management
- Savings in consumption of energy and materials
- Lower distribution costs
- Improved corporate image among regulators, customers and the public.
- Most of the main suppliers conform to ISO and other environmental standards.
ISO 26000 Gives organizations guidance on implementing social responsibility initiatives.
EMAS (Eco Management and Audit System)
European Union ECO label promoting sustainable production and consumption.
An ECO label is awarded to a product that has a reduced environmental impact. The environmental impact of a product is determined by producing a life cycle assessment of the product.
The Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme (FISP)
FISP-Social progress, protect environment, prudent use of natural resources, stable level of growth and employment .
The Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) oversees the certification and labelling of products that have come from sustainably managed forests.
LEED and BREEAM Environmental assessment of buildings:
- LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
- BREEAM Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (UK).
The Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme (FISP)
Social progress, protect environment, prudent use of natural resources,stable level of growth and employment
Typical statements include: “Environmentally friendly” – meaningless if unexplained
Green program
Eco program ideas
The rule is – do not compromise your guest experience with your eco-program, but enhance your guest experience with your eco-program.
There are actions and products that benefit the environment that match every star level of service offered.
Eco-friendly products eg biodegradable toiletries.
Develop policies for plastic reduction and clean energy.
Use reusable water bottles for on-site filtered water.
Use electric vehicles.
Source local produce.
Use solar panels.
Organic wine and fresh-fruit cocktails.
Bamboo straws or alternative.
Bamboo towels.
Line-caught fish.
Use biodegradable garbage bags and takeaway containers.
Plant trees.
Use natural lighting.
LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances.
Linen and towel re-use reduces laundry detergent and water use.
Use water saving devices, water filtration systems, and air filtration/purifiers.
System for using excess water can be used for liquid fertilizer.
Use motion sensors wherever possible.
Implement a recycling program to reduce waste.
Provide guest recycling receptacles .
Consider using milk in jugs instead of individual milk portions.
Always use recycled paper, wherever possible eg napkins, hotel stationary and paper.
Print both sides of office paper, and then recycle.
Use recycled toner.
Internet-based reports to reduce paper waste.
Buy I.T. consumables which are taken back by the supplier for re-use/recycling
Replace all cleaning agents and chemicals used to clean guestrooms with non-toxic, environmentally safe products. This reduces bleach and ammonia based products.
Replace all paints and solvents with eco-friendly paints (low VOC).
Donate usable hotel items to local non-profit organizations.
User energy and water-efficient equipment eg in laundry , kitchen , guestrooms eg air conditioning and in-room minibars.
Reduce use of disposable cups in employee areas.
Replace incandescent lighting with low enery light bulbs-LED, halogens, compact fluerescent lamps (cfl).
Recycling Remarks
Up to 80% of waste can be recycled.
Landfill sites are the most common forms of waste disposal in the UK but the availability of sites is reducing and the cost of landfill is increasing.
Some of the products placed in landfill sites take hundreds of years to breakdown (such as plastics).
Before purchasing, it is recommended that there is an evaluation of the potential for recycling the product in question, particularly comparing it against similar products on the market.
When purchasing look for goods which are durable and that can be easily repaired and upgraded with guaranteed stocks of replaceable parts.
Use only biodegradable products.
Main Hotel Products- Environmental Remarks.
1 Beds
-
- Choose mattresses made from sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, natural latex, or eco-friendly foam.
- Opt for bed frames made from recycled or reclaimed wood.
- Use pillows filled with organic or recycled materials.
- Electrical Accessories:
- Install energy-efficient power outlets and USB charging ports that automatically switch off when not in use.
- Kettle:
- Select energy-efficient electric kettles that have quick boiling features and automatic shut-off functions.
- Hairdryer:
- Choose energy-efficient hairdryers that have low power consumption and adjustable heat settings to conserve energy.
- Ensure swivel on off switch so that hairdryer turns off when not in use.
- Ironing and Irons:
- Opt for steam irons with energy-saving features, such as auto shut-off when not in use for a certain period of time.
- Provide ironing boards made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo.
- Minibar:
- Use energy-efficient mini-refrigerators with high energy star ratings.
- Stock the minibar with locally sourced, organic, and fair-trade products to promote sustainability.
- Feather Duvet:
- Choose responsibly sourced and certified organic feather duvets to ensure ethical and sustainable practices.
- Bed Sheets:
- Use bed sheets made from organic cotton or other sustainable materials, which are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides.
- Towels:
- Provide towels made from organic cotton or bamboo, which are softer on the skin and more environmentally friendly.
- Furniture:
- Select furniture made from sustainably sourced materials, such as FSC-certified wood or recycled materials.
- Opt for furniture with water-based finishes or low VOC finishes to minimize off-gassing of harmful chemicals.
- Glassware:
- Choose some glassware made from recycled glass to reduce the environmental impact of production.
- Ice Machines:
- Choose energy-efficient ice machines that optimize ice production while minimizing energy consumption.
- Photocopiers:
- Select energy-efficient photocopiers with duplex printing capabilities to reduce paper waste.
- Uniforms:
- Choose uniforms made from organic or recycled materials.
- Consider uniforms that have longer durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Air Conditioning Units:
- Select energy-efficient air conditioning units with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings.
- Opt for units that use eco-friendly refrigerants with lower global warming potential.
- Main Kitchen Equipment:
- Choose energy-efficient kitchen equipment with Energy Star ratings.
- Opt for equipment made from recycled or recyclable materials.
- Use water-efficient dishwashers and sinks to minimize water usage.
Implementing these environmentally friendly product features can significantly reduce the ecological footprint of a hotel and promote sustainable practices throughout its operations.
Buying local v overseas tips.
Advantages of Local Buying:
- Faster delivery times: Local suppliers can typically provide faster delivery times than overseas suppliers, which can be critical when you need to meet tight project deadlines.
- Better quality control: With local suppliers, it’s easier to maintain quality control because you can easily visit their facilities to inspect the products or materials before making a purchase.
- Reduced shipping costs: Local suppliers don’t have to ship products or materials over long distances, which can significantly reduce shipping costs.
- Greater flexibility: With local suppliers, you can often negotiate more flexible payment and delivery terms, which can help you manage your budget and project timeline more effectively.
- Supports the local economy: Buying from local suppliers helps support the local economy and can contribute to the development of local businesses and communities.
Disadvantages of buying overseas.
- Increased transportation emissions: Shipping products or materials from overseas can result in significantly higher transportation emissions due to the longer distance and modes of transport used. This can contribute to increased CO2 levels and harm the environment.
- Longer lead times: Sourcing products or materials from overseas can result in longer lead times due to shipping and customs clearance. This can cause delays in the project timeline, which can ultimately increase the carbon footprint of the project.
- Lower quality control: With overseas suppliers, it can be more difficult to maintain quality control, particularly if you’re unable to visit the supplier’s facilities in person. This can result in subpar products that require rework or replacement, which can contribute to higher CO2 emissions from additional transportation and waste.
- Risk of supply chain disruptions: Sourcing products or materials from overseas can increase the risk of supply chain disruptions due to political or environmental factors, which can cause delays and increase CO2 emissions from transportation and re-sourcing.
- Limited visibility into environmental practices: Overseas suppliers may not have the same environmental standards or regulations as domestic suppliers, which can make it difficult to ensure that the products or materials are sustainably sourced or manufactured.
Overall, these disadvantages highlight the potential impact on CO2 levels when buying overseas. By carefully considering the carbon footprint of your procurement decisions, you can help reduce the impact on the environment and promote sustainability in your hotel project.
Advantages of Overseas Buying:
- Cost savings: Overseas suppliers can often offer lower prices due to lower labor and manufacturing costs, which can help reduce project expenses.
- Access to unique products: Some products may only be available from overseas suppliers, giving you access to a wider range of options to choose from.
- Specialized expertise: Overseas suppliers may have specialized expertise in certain products or manufacturing processes, which can be beneficial if you need unique or customized products.
- Diversification of suppliers: Sourcing from overseas suppliers can help diversify your supply chain, reducing your dependence on a single supplier and minimizing the risk of supply chain disruptions.
Ultimately, the decision to buy locally or overseas will depend on your specific project requirements, budget, timeline and operator’s policies.. Careful consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of each option will help you make an informed decision that best meets your project needs.
Environments Policy - OS&E for new openings.
Title: Environmental Policy for New Hotel Openings: OS&E and FF&E
Introduction: At [Hotel Name], we are committed to minimizing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices in all aspects of our operations. This policy focuses on the procurement of Operating Supplies and Equipment (OS&E) and Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FF&E) for new hotel openings, ensuring that environmentally friendly options are prioritized. By incorporating sustainable materials and practices into our procurement processes, we aim to reduce waste, conserve resources, and contribute to a greener future.
- Sustainable Material Selection: 1.1. Preference for Recycled or Renewable Materials: Whenever possible, we will select OS&E and FF&E made from recycled or renewable materials, such as reclaimed wood, recycled plastic, or sustainable textiles. 1.2. Non-Toxic and Low VOC Materials: We will prioritize products that are free from harmful chemicals, including paints, adhesives, and coatings with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, ensuring a healthier environment for both guests and staff.
- Energy Efficiency: 2.1. Lighting: We will utilize energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LED or CFL bulbs, in all areas of the hotel, including guest rooms, public spaces, and exterior lighting. 2.2. Appliances and Equipment: We will select energy-efficient appliances and equipment with high energy star ratings, promoting reduced energy consumption and operational costs.
- Water Conservation: 3.1. Plumbing Fixtures: We will install water-efficient fixtures, including faucets, showerheads, and toilets, to minimize water usage without compromising guest comfort. 3.2. Linen and Towel Reuse Program: Implementing a linen and towel reuse program will encourage guests to participate in water conservation efforts during their stay.
- Waste Management: 4.1. Recycling Initiatives: We will establish comprehensive recycling programs throughout the hotel, ensuring that appropriate recycling bins are conveniently located for guests and staff. 4.2. Minimizing Single-Use Items: We will strive to reduce the use of single-use items, such as disposable toiletries or packaging, by offering refillable amenities and utilizing bulk purchasing options where feasible.
- Supplier Engagement: 5.1. Sustainable Supplier Selection: We will actively seek suppliers and manufacturers who share our commitment to sustainability, providing preference to those with established environmental certifications or green credentials. 5.2. Collaboration for Innovation: We will engage with suppliers to explore innovative and eco-friendly solutions for OS&E and FF&E, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in sustainable practices.
- Employee Education and Engagement: 6.1. Training and Awareness: We will conduct regular training sessions and awareness programs for our staff to promote environmental responsibility and provide them with the knowledge and tools to implement sustainable practices. 6.2. Feedback and Suggestions: We will actively encourage employees to share their ideas and suggestions for improving environmental performance, creating a collaborative and engaged workforce.
- Monitoring and Reporting: 7.1. Performance Tracking: We will establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor the effectiveness of our environmental initiatives, regularly reviewing and reporting on our progress. 7.2. Continuous Improvement: Based on the results of performance monitoring, we will identify areas for improvement and implement necessary actions to enhance our environmental performance further.
Conclusion: By implementing this policy, [Hotel Name] is committed to developing new hotels that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. We strive to create a positive impact on the environment while providing exceptional guest experiences. This policy will guide our procurement decisions and operational practices, contributing to a more sustainable future for the hospitality industry.
