Sustainability is Good for Business

HOUSEKEEPING DEPARTMENT

Introduction

– Our customers are looking for accommodation that is working to improve its sustainability and reduce negative environmental impact

– The hotel is making efforts to reduce its water and energy consumption and to minimise the production of waste

– All departments are able to contribute to this effort

Laundry – Energy Reduction

– Line dry towels and linen whenever possible

– Consider low temperature wash formulas

– Sort towels and linens into different loads as they require different wash types and drying times

– If dryers must be used– Clean lint trap on dryers at least once a day– Select drying time based on type of load

– Operate flat irons at full capacity

Laundry – Water Reduction

– Separate and pre-treat soiled or stained items to reduce need for re-washing

– Sort towels and linens into different loads as they require different wash types and drying times

– Ensure machines are fully loaded at rated capacity

Laundry – Waste Minimisation

– Bulk purchase detergents in concentrated form to be diluted on site to avoid excessive size of packaging and transportation of heavier than necessary materials

– Line drying reduces the wear on fabrics and therefore reduces the frequency that they have to be replaced.

Case Study: Jetwing Vil Uyana, Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

– Water from air conditioners is being re-used in the laundry for steam irons

– This has reduced the need to purchase distilled water by 960 litres therefore reducing water wastage by the same amount and saving the hotel Rs.38,500 (approx €250) per annum

– Linen is line dried on sunny days– From January 2010 to September 2010 (9

months) air drying of 12,465 kg of linen saved electricity worth Rs.107,500 (€700) and Gas worth Rs.121,500 (€800)

Action Planning

– Discuss what options there are for reducing energy, water and waste in your operations

– create a list of potential actions

– who needs to be involved to ensure that these actions can take place?

– how quickly do you anticipate these actions being put into place?

– will any further training be required?

MAKINGA WORLDOF DIFFERENCE…