Water management in the hotel industry: key to sustainability and competitiveness

Content in collaboration with our partner Bioscore Sustainability, a sustainability consultancy for tourism companies.

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Water as a strategic resource in the hotel sector

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Water is an essential resource for the hotel industry. Its use extends to multiple areas, from supplying rooms and common areas to maintaining swimming pools, gardens and laundry services. Efficiency in its management is key to reducing environmental impact, optimizing operating costs and complying with increasingly demanding regulations.

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The tourism sector, especially in destinations with a high influx of visitors, faces increasing challenges related to water stress and resource availability. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the tourism industry accounts for approximately 1% of global water consumption, although in destinations with a high hotel density this percentage may be considerably higher.

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Faced with this situation, measuring and optimizing water consumption has become a strategic necessity for hotels. It not only reduces costs, but also strengthens the establishment's reputation and improves its positioning in a market where sustainability is a key decision factor for travelers.

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The impact of water consumption in hotels

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Water consumption in a hotel varies depending on the type of establishment, its location and the category of service offered. Some relevant data on water use in the hotel industry include:

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● A hotel guest can consume between 300 and 1,200 liters of water per day, depending on the type of accommodation and the facilities available.

● Laundry and room cleaning account for approximately 16% of total water consumption in a hotel.

● Maintaining swimming pools and spas can account for up to 20% of a hotel's total water expenditure.

● Watering gardens and green areas, especially in arid regions, can consume up to 30% of the water used by an establishment.

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These data highlight the need to adopt a strategic approach to water management to minimize waste and ensure efficient use of this resource.

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Technological solutions for efficient water management

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Water management in the hotel industry not only involves reducing consumption, but also implementing tools to measure, analyze, and optimize water use. To this end, Bioscore Sustainability provides innovative solutions based on technology and certification, enabling hotels to more efficiently manage their water footprint.

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1. Real-time consumption monitoring and analysis

One of the main challenges in water management is the lack of detailed information on consumption in different areas of the hotel. Through digital platforms such as Bioscore Sustainability, hotels can:

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● Obtain accurate data on water consumption by area of the establishment.

● Detect usage patterns and potential waste or leaks.

● Compare their performance with other hotels with similar characteristics.

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The availability of these data allows for informed decision-making and the establishment of concrete measures to reduce consumption.

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2. Implementation of measures to optimize consumption

Once consumption has been identified in each area of the hotel, it is possible to apply specific solutions to reduce water use without compromising the guest experience. Some of the most effective strategies include:

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● Installation of low-flow faucets and showers.

● Implementation of gray water reuse systems in laundry and irrigation.

● Use of intelligent irrigation technologies with humidity sensors for gardens and green areas.

● Raising awareness among guests and employees about responsible water use through information campaigns.

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3. Blue Leaf Bioscore Certification: a hallmark of water sustainability

For hotels looking to consolidate their commitment to sustainability and differentiate themselves in the market, Bioscore Sustainability offers the Blue Leaf Bioscore certificate, a specific certification for efficient water management in tourist accommodations.

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This badge evaluates multiple aspects of water management, including:

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● Policies for reducing consumption and water efficiency.

● Implementation of water optimization and reuse technologies.

● Transparency in the communication of water metrics.

● Awareness actions aimed at guests and employees.

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Hotels that obtain the Blue Leaf Bioscore certificate improve their competitiveness in the sector and reinforce their commitment to sustainability, which allows them to access markets and platforms specialized in responsible tourism.

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Benefits of efficient water management in the hotel industry

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Investing in optimizing water consumption not only has environmental benefits, but also translates into operational and commercial advantages for hotels.

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● Reduction of operating costs: Reducing water consumption implies a direct reduction in supply and maintenance expenses.

● Regulatory compliance: In many regions, regulations on water consumption are becoming increasingly strict, and having a water management plan allows hotels to anticipate future regulations.

● Improved reputation and customer loyalty: A hotel with sustainable practices attracts travelers committed to the environment and improves its brand image.

● Access to new distribution channels: Reservation platforms and travel agencies are prioritizing accommodations with sustainability certifications.

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Towards a more responsible hotel industry regarding water use

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Within the framework of World Water Day, Roiback and Bioscore Sustainability reaffirm their commitment to sustainability in the hotel sector. The implementation of technologies for water management, the certification of good practices, and the optimization of consumption not only contribute to the protection of the environment, but also generate value for hotels and their clients.

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In a context of growing demand for sustainable practices, efficient water management has become a determining factor for the competitiveness and viability of tourist accommodations. Committing to innovation and sustainability is not just an option, but a necessity to guarantee the future of the sector.

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For more information on how to obtain the Blue Leaf Bioscore certificate and improve water management at your hotel, visit Bioscore Sustainability.

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