The hotel industry is one of the most promising and evolving industries at the moment. It is estimated that it has crossed the 100 billion mark business and this will only grow globally.
However, just like any other industry at the moment, the hotel industry is also going through a renaissance. This means that the focus is being shifted to more sustainable mediums which are great for the environment as well as individuals.
The birth of ecotels hotels is one such promising event and it is just going to get bigger with time. Why is it so promising? Well, this is what we will talk about in detail.
The future of the hotel industry is none other than sustainable forms and the concept of ecotel is one of them. But, this does not mean that you can depend on any ecotel that you want to.
There are some who do not follow the basic guidelines while there are others who are sustainable and deliver the job with excellence. Environment is the focal point of the ecotel hotels and they deliver the same with excellence. So let us know more about this beautiful concept, shall we?
Also Read:- Hotel Strategies To Attract Customers To Your Hotel
Understanding The Term Ecotel – How Is it A Different Concept?
The first question that might pop up in this discussion is what is an ecotel hotel and how is it different from the traditional ones that we are used to.
If we focus on the term, you will be able to decipher that it is a combination of two terms “eco” and “hotel”. Hence, it means a hotel which is ecology friendly and does not hamper the nature and the proceedings of the environment. It is a much more sustainable step taken towards a better Earth. You will be shocked to know that a traditional hotel emits waste which can be 85% more than that of an ecotel hotel.
The concept of building an ecotel hotel is completely different and it is nowhere similar to the regular traditional hotels. How does it differ?
- The major focus area of such a hotel is to increase sustainability. The ultimate aim is to minimise the impact on nature.
- Usually, the working principles are quite a few like focusing on water energy, energy consumption, waste reduction and recycling of wastes.
- Often these hotels also use sustainable forms of energy like solar energy to make the endeavor more impactful.
- These hotels also make it a point to focus on raising awareness and education about energy usage and consumption.
- They will often collaborate with the local community to increase their participation and make the business inclusive.
- Helps the guests to connect with the environment.
Apart from the difference in working mechanism, the ultimate endeavor of Ecotel hotel is to minimize the costs that Mother Nature has to pay.
These ecotels often try to figure out a way that is more sustainable and can help the hotel to function without harming nature. They not only focus on the ecological impact but also ensure that as a business their accountability cannot be compromised.
The Benefits of Investing In an Ecotel Hotel
If you thought that an ecotel hotel is only about saving the environment, then your view is somewhat concocted. It is much more than that and offers you with more than just one thing to look forward to. Some of the major benefits of investing in an ecotel hotel are:-
Environmental Benefits
The moment we hear the term “ecotel”, the first thing that comes to our mind is a hotel that is eco-friendly in nature. Consequently, it will always have environmental benefits to look forward to. Some of these benefits are:
- Reduction In Carbon Footprint
The most effective way that the ecotel hotel can help the environment is by reducing the overall carbon footprint. This will reduce the emission of carbon dioxide in the air and make the air quality much better than anticipated.
- Preservation of Natural Resources
The natural resources that we have at hand can be classed into two – renewable and non renewable. The non-renewable resources are limited. An ecotel hotel ensures that they can limit the usage of such resources and make it much more sustainable in their approach. They usually make use of the resources which are available in abundance and preserve the rest for future use.
Social Benefits
An ecotel hotel comes with more benefits than you can think of. They do have some of the most promising social benefits as well.
- Empowering Local Communities
An ecotel hotel will never be able to function if it does not have the support of the local communities. Most of these hotels incorporate the local communities and empower their working as well. It helps these communities to get a stable income and make an impact in the social stream of life.
- Supporting Cultural Heritage
An ecotel hotel is built on the parameters of cultural heritage. It ensures that they can focus and uplift the culture and make it visible to the ones who do not have an idea of the same. The ecotel hotels help one to keep the heritage alive and stay true to it.
Economic Benefits
When you go back to the basics and take up nature in a more sustainable way, it will provide you with economic benefits as well. You will be able to reap benefits without investing much because nature is the only resource that comes for completely free.
- Cost Savings Through Sustainable Practices
When you focus and depend on nature for resources, it automatically helps you to save a lot of money. You can use energy like solar energy or wind energy without having to pay anything. The initial set up cost can be a little expensive, however it gets more sustainable with time and does not need you to spend any more money in the near future.
The world is changing. Today there are people who want to make an impact and change their ways for the better. An ecotel hotel will be able to garner a lot of revenues. This is because travellers who are conscious are ready to book such a stay and even pay more. It helps one to build economic prowess very easily.
Sustainable Practices Adopted in Ecotel Hotels
The ecotel hotels are different from the rest and one of the best parts about these hotels is the design that they come with. The design fosters smooth working of the hotels.
- Using the Renewable Materials
The major focus is to use materials that are renewable and can be easily acquired from nature. These include items like solar energy, wind energy and similar others. These are available in abundance in nature and hence one can use their heart’s content.
- Energy-efficient Building Design
The building design is also highly energy efficient. It ensures that one is able to make use of the renewable materials and use them more effectively. This includes facets like the solar panels and similar others.
The design of the ecotel hotels is formulated as such so that it can make use of the renewable sources of energy. This ensures that one does not have to depend on other sources that are harmful and often have a long term impact on the environment.
- Smart Energy Management System
Most of the ecotel hotels will ensure that they can have a smart energy management system. This ensures that whatever energy one can reap, is being used in a more effective manner. The smart energy management system is very important for limited and appropriate usage of energy.
- Minimising Use of Plastic
The plastics which are up for use only for one time are discarded completely. This ensures that one can enhance the recyclability factor and use a single plastic multiple times.
Did you know that you can actually make good use of the waste and use it again for different purposes? Composting the waste often gives you important nutrients for nurturing soil. You can also yield energy from it. Hence, all ecotel hotels ensure that they are able to recycle and compost.
The Ecotel Technology
- Energy Efficient Lighting and Appliances
The major tenet of an ecotel operation is the focus on energy-efficient lighting and appliances. These hotels embrace LED lighting, which not only creates a warm and welcoming ambiance for guests but also significantly reduces electricity consumption. By utilising energy-efficient appliances, such as refrigerators and air conditioning systems, these ecotels minimise their carbon footprint while ensuring guests enjoy modern comforts.
- Water-saving technologies
Have you ever heard that water is life? This is the principle that the ecotels follow. Through the implementation of water-saving technologies, such as low-flow showerheads, faucets, and dual-flush toilets, these establishments minimise water wastage without compromising on guest experience. Smart irrigation systems and rainwater harvesting techniques are also utilised to maintain lush greenery and gardens without excessive water usage.
Case Studies Of Successful Ecotels
The concept of ecotels has made it big. Hence, today you will be able to see that there are tons of ecotel hotels everywhere and many of them have made it big in this industry. Some of the most popular ones include :
Green Oasis Retreat- Bali, Indonesia
Nestled amidst Bali’s lush landscapes, Green Oasis Retreat seamlessly combines luxurious comfort with sustainable practices. Equipped with solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and an organic farm that supplies its restaurant, this ecotel showcases the island’s natural beauty while minimizing its ecological impact.
EcoBliss Suites, Vancouver, Canada
Perched on the scenic shores of Vancouver, EcoBliss Suites combines stunning views with eco-consciousness. Utilising geothermal heating and cooling systems, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable materials, this hotel offers guests a guilt-free stay, allowing them to immerse themselves in nature’s wonders. Not only that, this ecotel hotel also makes use of communication with the local communities and have incorporated them in the system. This makes the entire experience more traditional and rustic in its approach.
Nature’s Haven Lodge, Queenstown, New Zealand
Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, Nature’s Haven Lodge captivates visitors with breathtaking mountain vistas. Harnessing the power of hydroelectricity, the lodge ensures a minimal carbon footprint. Moreover, guests can explore nearby nature trails and partake in outdoor activities to truly appreciate the beauty of New Zealand.
Verde Valley Resort Sedona, Arizona, USA
Surrounded by the awe-inspiring red rock formations of Sedona, Verde Valley Resort is a desert oasis committed to sustainability. Through innovative water management systems, use of renewable energy, and environmentally friendly building designs, this ecotel preserves the delicate balance of its desert surroundings.
Sustainable Serenity Spa & Resort Tulum, Mexico
Nestled along the pristine beaches of Tulum, Sustainable Serenity Spa & Resort embodies the concept of eco-luxury. By employing solar power, waste reduction initiatives, and locally sourced materials, this resort offers guests a tranquil getaway where relaxation goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship.
Harmony Heights Lodge Banff National Park, Canada
Located within Banff National Park’s majestic mountains, Harmony Heights Lodge is a shining example of sustainable architecture. Built using reclaimed materials and featuring energy-efficient designs, this ecotel harmonises with its surroundings. This place is the perfect example of how nature can be enjoyed if you do not touch its sanctity and keep it pure.
Evergreen Escape Sydney, Australia
Located on the outskirts of Sydney, Evergreen Escape showcases Australia’s unique flora and fauna. With on-site composting, water recycling, and extensive use of locally sourced products, this ecotel offers an immersive experience in the midst of nature’s wonders, complemented by sustainable living practices.
EcoVista Retreat Cape Town, South Africa
Nestled on the slopes of Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain, EcoVista Retreat treats guests to panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. By incorporating renewable energy systems, water-saving measures, and indigenous landscaping, this ecotel seamlessly integrates with the region’s natural beauty.
Green Peaks Lodge Alps, Switzerland
Situated high in the Swiss Alps, Green Peaks Lodge combines alpine charm with ecological mindfulness. Through energy-efficient heating systems, locally sourced cuisine, and responsible waste management, this ecotel ensures that guests can enjoy the pristine mountain landscape with a clear conscience.
Earthly Elegance Resort Kyoto, Japan
Located in Kyoto’s timeless beauty, Earthly Elegance Resort showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage alongside its commitment to sustainability. By blending traditional architecture with state-of-the-art energy-saving technologies and locally sourced materials, this ecotel invites guests to experience the harmony between nature and human ingenuity.
Conclusion
An ecotel hotel is the future and it ensures that one is able to create an environment which is both nurturing and sustainable for the future. As a business it allows you to venture a completely different type of hotel which is sustainable and holistic in its approach. It can be a big responsibility to ensure that such a business grows in the future. However, with time and effort it would not be very difficult to make a mark.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. What exactly makes a hotel an Ecotel?
A hotel qualifies itself as an ecotel when the basic tenet of the hotel is upkeeping the environment and making it more sustainable. The entire focus of an ecotel hotel is to adopt practices that are environment friendly.
B. How can travellers support Ecotels?
The best way that a traveller can support this business is to choose to stay in these hotels over anything else. They can also promote the hotel via social media accounts or refer these to other people and raise awareness.
C. Are Hotels more expensive than traditional hotels?
The answer to this question is subjective and there are instances when it can be more expensive than your traditional hotel. However, this is not always the case. There are many affordable ecotel hotels as well that are much less in price than your traditional hotels.
D. What impact do Ecotels have on local communities?
Ecotels always have a more sustainable approach towards the growth of the local communities. Usually, this type of business will try to incorporate the local communities and uplift the economy as well. They will also try to increase the visibility of such communities and help them come to the social stream of life.
E. Are Ecotels suitable for all types of travellers?
Yes, ecotels are extremely suitable for all types of travellers. These hotels offer diverse accommodations and amenities while maintaining their commitment to environmental stewardship. It also offers you a great experience and hence can be the ideal experience to try out something new.
