Environmental Impact of Guest Accommodations – What You Need to Know

Planning a trip? Most people focus on price, location and comfort, but rarely think about the environmental impact of where they stay. Whether you book a hotel near the airport, a cosy cottage in the countryside, or a glamping site by the sea, every choice leaves a carbon footprint. The good news is that small changes can make a big difference, and you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to travel responsibly.

How Your Stay Affects the Planet

Hotels use a lot of energy for heating, cooling, lighting and laundry. A typical hotel room can emit about 15 kg of CO₂ per night just from electricity and water heating. Cottages often have older insulation, which means more heating fuel and higher emissions. Glamping sites sometimes rely on generators or diesel heaters, adding to air pollution. Even the type of food you eat on site matters – all‑inclusive resorts serve huge buffets that generate food waste and require more transportation of ingredients.

Green buildings try to cut these numbers by using solar panels, LED lighting and low‑flow fixtures. However, some green projects face hidden downsides like higher upfront costs or complex maintenance, which can discourage owners from fully committing to eco‑friendly designs. Tiny houses and fully sustainable homes show that less space can mean less energy use, but they also need careful planning to avoid issues like limited insulation or reliance on non‑renewable materials.

Practical Ways to Reduce Your Footprint

Here are a few easy steps you can take on any type of accommodation:

• Skip daily housekeeping. Let the staff know you don’t need fresh towels or sheets every day. Fewer washes save water and energy.
• Turn off electronics. Lights, TVs and chargers left on add up quickly. A quick flick of the switch reduces unnecessary draw.
• Adjust the thermostat. Set heating to about 19 °C (66 °F) and cooling to 24 °C (75 °F). Comfortable enough and much less energy hungry.
• Bring a reusable bottle and tote. Hotels and resorts often provide plastic bottles and bags. Using your own cuts waste at the source.
• Choose eco‑friendly meals. Opt for local, seasonal dishes and ask for smaller portions if you’re not sure you’ll finish everything.

If you’re staying in a cottage, look for properties that advertise renewable energy sources, good insulation and water‑saving appliances. For glamping, pick sites that use solar power, compost toilets or rainwater collection. Many destinations now label “sustainable” or “green” accommodations, making it easier to spot the right fit.

Another tip: support places that give back to the environment. Some hotels plant a tree for each night booked, while others donate a portion of their income to local conservation projects. Your booking can become a small but powerful act of stewardship.

Finally, think about travel logistics. Flights and car rentals often have a larger carbon impact than the stay itself. If you can, take the train, use public transport, or rent an electric vehicle. Combining low‑impact travel with green accommodation maximises the benefit.

Staying green doesn’t have to be a hassle. By picking the right place, tweaking a few habits and supporting sustainable practices, you get to enjoy a comfortable break while keeping the planet happy. Next time you book a room, remember these simple steps – they’re easy, practical, and make a real difference.