Waste reduction and recycling in housekeeping are essential for promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Housekeeping departments can play a significant role in these efforts by implementing effective waste management practices. Firstly, separating waste at the source is critical. By setting up clearly labeled recycling stations in areas like housekeeping closets and guest floors, housekeeping staff can easily segregate materials such as paper, plastic, and glass. Training is also crucial to ensure staff understands proper waste sorting techniques, which can be reinforced through workshops and visual aids.

Adopting sustainable alternatives, like reusable microfiber cloths instead of disposable wipes, can significantly reduce waste. Switching from single-use plastics to refillable dispensers and compostable packaging for guest amenities also helps minimize the landfill footprint. Using advanced technologies, such as compactors and balers, reduces waste volume and improves storage efficiency, thus lowering the frequency of waste pickups and carbon emissions.

Partnering with local recycling companies further enhances recycling efforts by ensuring that collected waste is properly processed. Finally, monitoring and evaluating the impact of waste reduction programs allows housekeeping teams to set targets and continuously improve their practices. Collectively, these steps contribute to a cleaner environment and showcase a commitment to sustainable hospitality operations.

Implementing Recycling Programs for Housekeeping Waste

Sandip Karmalkar, Cluster Director of Housekeeping, Signature Hotel Group says, “At Signature Hotels, we have successfully implemented Mil-Tek’s cost-effective and sustainable waste handling solution to optimize the management of both general and recyclable waste collected by our housekeeping department. The Housekeeping team is trained in garbage segregation and the team segregates the general waste during room cleaning, utilizing separate bags for glass, PET bottles (with lids removed), plastic, and cardboard. The Mil-Tek small footprint air-powered Baler machine efficiently compresses segregated waste, reducing its volume by up to 80%, making it easier to handle and store. This not only optimizes space and streamlines waste management but also reduces the frequency of waste transport, contributing to lower carbon emissions and supporting the hotel’s sustainability goals.”

At the same time, Amarnath Kumar, Complex Executive Housekeeper, Westin and Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain focuses on setting up dedicated recycling stations across all housekeeping areas. Recycling bins for paper, plastic, and glass are standardized, and team members are trained extensively to ensure proper waste segregation. The Marriott “Serve 360” sustainability initiative encourages properties to monitor compliance and achieve measurable environmental goals, and he follows these global practices to ensure accountability.

Chena Ram, Director of Housekeeping, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel And Villas believes that implementing recycling programs for housekeeping waste is essential for promoting sustainability and minimizing landfill impact. To start, assess current waste management practices through a waste audit, identifying types and volumes of waste produced. Set clear objectives, such as reducing waste or increasing recycling rates. Engage and train staff with sessions on waste separation and use visual aids like posters for guidance. Establish recycling stations with labeled bins in convenient locations, such as floor pantries. Partner with local recycling companies for material collection, and monitor progress by tracking collected recyclables. Regularly seek staff input to improve and optimize the program.

Reducing single-use plastics in guest amenities

Karmalkar has taken the initiative to reduce single-use plastics. He is transitioning to refillable dispensers for toiletries, which not only cuts down waste but also enhances the guest experience. While some guests may prefer single-use items, the hotel is addressing this through education and communication about eco-friendly practices. Karmalkar is also exploring compostable packaging and biodegradable alternatives for other amenities. He believes that training the housekeeping staff is key to ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining guest satisfaction.

The transition is being followed by Amarnath Kumar as well. “Transitioning from single-use plastics to more sustainable options is a key initiative in our housekeeping operations. We are working to introduce refillable dispensers for toiletries and biodegradable packaging where possible. The challenge lies in ensuring that these alternatives maintain the guest experience while reducing environmental impact. Continuous evaluation of guest feedback and supplier innovations helps us find the right balance,” he adds. 

Chena Ram underscores the steps that housekeepers can follow to reducing single-use plastics in guest amenities to benefit the environment. 

• Start by assessing inventory to identify plastic items that can be replaced, such as single-use toiletries. 
• Explore sustainable alternatives, like biodegradable garbage bags and reusable microfiber cloths. 
• Encourage reusability by offering guests items like metal water bottles and non-woven bags. 
• Opt for sustainable linens that withstand frequent washing, reducing replacements.
• Partner with vendors who prioritize eco-friendly products, and digitize inventory management to cut paper waste.
• Address challenges, such as higher costs, by conducting cost-benefit analyses, and educate guests on the benefits to increase acceptance of these changes.

Innovative Waste Reduction Technologies

Karmalkar has implemented Mil-Tek’s air-powered baler and stainless-steel general waste compactor, an optimal solution for hotels. The Mil-Tek Eco-Drive Pneumatic Technology from Denmark is designed to utilize the lowest energy and has the smallest carbon footprint. It compacts waste by a ratio of max 10:1 to min 3:1, sealing it in biodegradable bags, which leads to fewer waste disposals, reduced landfill trips, and tripled waste room capacity. This process also improves hygiene and eliminates odors. By efficiently compacting waste at the source, he optimises storage, reduces waste pickup frequency, and enhances the sustainability of housekeeping operations. These technologies align with Karmalkar’s sustainability goals, reducing landfill impact and improving overall operational efficiency, contributing to a greener future.

Chena Ram believes that innovative waste reduction technologies help minimize waste, improve resource efficiency, and promote recycling within housekeeping operations. “Smart inventory management software accurately forecasts demand, reducing excess waste of amenities and supplies. Automated laundry systems with energy-efficient washers, advanced chemical dosing, and water recovery tanks optimize chemical use and conserve water. Digital scheduling apps decrease paper use and prevent unnecessary cleaning. Eco-labeled and steam-based cleaning products reduce harmful chemicals, while low-flow fixtures conserve water in guest areas. Energy management systems use motion sensors to adjust lighting and air conditioning, saving energy, and guest engagement apps allow guests to skip daily housekeeping, conserving resources, he elucidates.

Amarnath goes on to add that incorporating waste reduction technologies such as compactors and waste-to-energy systems has shown great promise. These technologies help reduce the overall volume of waste while offering eco-friendly disposal solutions. On-site composting units for organic waste are another effective way to manage waste, and their integration into the daily operations has led to a significant reduction in landfill contributions.

Training and Awareness on Waste Reduction

Under Signature hotel’s sustainability “Staff Awareness Initiative,” the housekeeping team underwent comprehensive training provided by Training Managers on effective waste segregation and recycling practices. This initiative has empowered Karmalkar’s  staff to embrace sustainable waste management, ensuring proper sorting of recyclable materials and maximizing recycling efforts across all housekeeping operations. The training emphasizes the critical role of waste segregation through the Recycling Life Cycle of Cardboard and Plastic in reducing our carbon footprint and promoting environmental sustainability, aligning with the hotel’s commitment to responsible environmental practices within its facilities.

Chena reiterates that training and awareness programs not only educate staff about waste reduction but also motivate lasting changes in both their professional and personal habits. Effective programs should empower employees to adopt sustainable practices, such as waste sorting and resource conservation. Regular workshops with hands-on demonstrations ensure staff understand recycling, waste management, and energy-saving methods. Incentive programs, like recognition awards, can reward consistent sustainability efforts. Technology integration, such as sustainability reporting apps and online modules, further enhances learning. Support from management and a dedicated sustainability committee reinforces the importance of these practices, while ongoing education, including webinars and certifications, keeps staff informed about green trends.

At Marriott, training and awareness are key to ensuring that sustainability is ingrained in our daily operations. At Westin and Le Meridien, Amarnath ensures regular training sessions for housekeeping associates, emphasizing the importance of waste reduction and recycling. Marriott’s "Green Hotels Global" program provides a robust framework for reducing waste and resources, and he uses this platform to ensure that his teams are empowered to adopt sustainable practices.

Collaborating with Suppliers for Sustainable Sourcing

Collaboration with suppliers is essential for sustainable sourcing in housekeeping. Karmalkar prioritises partners who provide eco-friendly products with minimal packaging. By ordering in bulk and selecting recyclable or biodegradable materials, he reduces overall waste footprint. Open communication with suppliers helps him innovate and find cost-effective solutions, making sustainability an integral part of his operations. 

Chena Ram agrees and further goes on to say that collaboration between housekeeping departments and suppliers is crucial for sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly product use. “Establishing partnerships with suppliers who share sustainability goals can streamline product offerings and ensure alignment with housekeeping needs. Regular communication is key for discussing sustainability objectives, product feedback, and exploring new options. Negotiating volume discounts for eco-friendly products makes them more affordable, encouraging bulk purchases and reducing waste. Monitoring and measuring the impact of sustainable practices allows housekeeping teams to set goals for waste reduction and resource efficiency, while data sharing with suppliers highlights successes and fosters continuous improvement toward shared sustainability targets,” he adds.

Amarnath has built strong relationships with suppliers to prioritize eco-friendly products and minimize packaging waste. Bulk orders with minimal packaging and sourcing items made from recyclable or biodegradable materials are integral to his strategy. He believes that collaborating with vendors who share his sustainability goals is key to long-term success.