How can you encourage your staff to adopt sustainable practices in hospitality?

1 Set clear goals

The first step is to define what sustainability means for your hospitality business and what specific actions you want your staff to take. For example, you might want to reduce food waste, energy consumption, water usage, or plastic packaging. You can use tools like SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) or OKR (objectives and key results) to set realistic and measurable goals. Communicate these goals to your staff and explain why they are important for your business and the environment.

2 Provide training and resources

The next step is to provide your staff with the necessary training and resources to implement sustainable practices. This might include workshops, manuals, videos, posters, or online courses that teach them how to reduce, reuse, and recycle. You can also provide them with eco-friendly equipment, products, and materials that make it easier for them to go green. For example, you can install energy-efficient appliances, LED lights, low-flow faucets, or compost bins. You can also source local, organic, or fair-trade ingredients and supplies.

5 Lead by example

The fifth step is to lead by example and demonstrate your own commitment and enthusiasm for sustainability. This can help your staff see that you are not only talking the talk, but also walking the walk. You can show your leadership by adopting sustainable practices yourself, such as using public transportation, bringing your own reusable cup, or volunteering for environmental causes. You can also show your leadership by supporting and collaborating with other sustainable businesses, organizations, or initiatives in your community. For example, you can join a local green network, a certification program, or a campaign that promotes sustainability in hospitality.

6 Inspire and educate

The sixth step is to inspire and educate your staff and your customers about the benefits and challenges of sustainability. This can help them see the bigger picture and the positive impact they can make on the world. You can use different ways to inspire and educate your staff and your customers, such as stories, testimonials, facts, figures, or case studies. You can also use different channels to inspire and educate your staff and your customers, such as newsletters, blogs, social media, podcasts, or events. For example, you can invite a guest speaker, a partner, or a customer to share their sustainability journey and best practices with your staff and your customers.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?