Sustainable Accommodations: Beyond the Greenwashing
Sustainable accommodations have become a buzzword in the travel industry as more and more travelers are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact while on the road. However, not all accommodations that claim to be “sustainable” truly live up to the label. In fact, many are guilty of “greenwashing,” using misleading marketing tactics to appear more environmentally friendly than they actually are. So, how can travelers separate the truly sustainable accommodations from those that are just pretending? Let’s take a closer look at sustainable accommodations and what it means to go beyond the greenwashing.
The Rise of Sustainable Accommodations
In recent years, the concept of sustainable tourism has gained traction, and travelers are now more conscious about the impact of their travels on the environment and local communities. This has led to a growing demand for accommodations that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. In response, many hotel chains, homestays, and B&Bs have started to promote themselves as “green” or “eco-friendly” to attract these eco-conscious travelers.
The Problem of Greenwashing
While this trend towards sustainability in the travel industry is a positive development, it has also led to an alarming rise in greenwashing. Greenwashing is the practice of making exaggerated or false claims about the environmental friendliness of a product or service. In the case of accommodations, this can mean using buzzwords like “eco-friendly” and “sustainable” without any real evidence to back up these claims.
Why Greenwashing is a Problem
Greenwashing is a problem for several reasons. Firstly, it misleads travelers who are genuinely trying to make responsible choices. A false label of sustainability can lead travelers to believe that they are making a positive impact when, in reality, they may be supporting practices that are harmful to the environment.
Another issue with greenwashing is that it undermines the efforts of true sustainable accommodations. By promoting themselves as sustainable, these properties not only harm the environment but also put pressure on genuine sustainable accommodations to compete with misleading marketing tactics.
Going Beyond the Greenwashing
So, how can travelers ensure that they are choosing truly sustainable accommodations and not falling for greenwashing? The key is to look beyond the buzzwords and do some research before booking your stay.
Look for Certifications
The most reliable way to determine the sustainability of an accommodation is by looking for third-party certifications. These certifications are awarded after a thorough evaluation of the property’s impact on the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage. Some of the most well-known certifications for sustainable accommodations are Green Key, EarthCheck, and LEED. When a property is certified, it means that it has met specific sustainability criteria and has been independently verified.
Consider the Location
The location of an accommodation can also play a significant role in its sustainability. For example, a hotel situated in a remote area may have a higher carbon footprint compared to one located in a city center, simply because of the resources and energy required to run the property. Additionally, look into whether the accommodation has any initiatives in place to support local communities and preserve their cultural heritage.
Read Reviews
Reviews from previous guests can be a valuable source of information when it comes to determining the sustainability of an accommodation. Reading about guests’ experiences can give you insight into the property’s environmental practices, support for local communities, and overall commitment to sustainability.
Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to reach out to the accommodation and ask questions about their sustainability practices. A truly sustainable accommodation will be transparent and happy to share information about their initiatives and impact. Asking questions can also help you determine if the property’s claims of sustainability are backed up with real actions.
Sustainable accommodations have the potential to make a positive impact on the environment and local communities. However, it’s important to go beyond the greenwashing and do your research to ensure that you are truly supporting sustainable practices. By looking for certifications, considering the location, reading reviews, and asking questions, you can make responsible choices and be a conscious traveler who supports genuine sustainable accommodations. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your travels with the knowledge that you are leaving a positive impact on the world.
