How many of us, when staying in a hotel, are guilty of turning the heating up or running the shower hotter and for longer because we don't have to pay extra for it? Or for pocketing little plastic bottles of toiletries, because we've already paid for them right? 

So how do hoteliers, who rely so heavily on guest habits, tackle sustainability and environmental targets? As well as the cost benefits, the net zero commitments and the pressure from customers and the Government, the University of South Wales points out that "the industry also relies on the same natural environment – unspoilt landscapes, sandy beaches, turquoise waters, glaciers, waterfalls, coral reefs and fresh air; all of which serve as great tourist attractions. Therefore, there is an inherent danger that we might harm the very basis on which hospitality is built."

The anticipated 2023 sustainability trends for the hotel sector are much like any other commercial property:

• Continued reliance on tech - we are already familiar with smart devices in hotels to minimise energy waste. Often hotels require your key card to be inserted in order for the lights to turn on so that they can not be left on when you are out of the room. Similar tech may be introduced to control heating and cooling. This could be teamed with solar panels and/or air-source heat pumps to keep energy usage as low and as clean as possible. Whilst not necessarily driven by sustainability, it seems that a leading trend for 2023 is going to be personalisation of everything from marketing to in-room experience, largely managed by advances in technology and artificial intelligence.
• Prioritise reuse - whilst in offices the priority may be reusable mugs, for many years hoteliers have encouraged guests to reuse their towels for their entire stay. Many hotels are also now refilling containers that stay in the room with toiletries, instead of giving each guest their own little single use bottles. This could go as far as reusing grey water (e.g. for flushing toilets).
• Think local - not only does using local suppliers support local businesses, it also reduces the carbon cost of transporting items from further afield. A lot of guests are looking for local, authentic experiences so this could be a selling point.
• The "S" in ESG - it is hard to quantify the social impact of a building. However, creating spaces that lend themselves to wellbeing is a step in the right direction. An example would be to include planting and decor that helps reduce stress. Or offering function rooms at reduced rates to local community groups.
• Retrofitting - improving insulation can help to keep a building warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This could help to stop guests cranking up the heat or air conditioning or turning the shower temperature to near scalding. Incorporating solar panels and/or heat pumps could also reduce carbon emissions.

Whilst the hotel industry has its own unique challenges when it comes to the race to net zero, there are lots of steps that can be taken to become more sustainable. It it expected that we will see a lot of innovation and smart tech in the near future to help with the journey.