Tips for Making Sustainable Choices with Hotel Drinks

When staying at hotels, the choices we make can have a significant impact on the environment. This is especially true when it comes to enjoying beverages, as the hospitality industry continues to embrace sustainability practices. Making informed decisions about what we drink can contribute to reducing carbon footprints and supporting eco-friendly initiatives. Here are practical tips to help you navigate hotel drink menus responsibly, ensuring your choices align with sustainability goals while still enjoying the delights offered by hotel bars and restaurants.

1. Opt for Local and Seasonal Beverages

• Local Brews: Choose beers and ciders brewed locally or regionally. Local breweries often use locally sourced ingredients, reducing transportation emissions.
• Seasonal Drinks: Look for cocktails or mocktails that feature seasonal fruits and herbs. These ingredients are fresher and require less energy for storage and transportation.

2. Support Sustainable Wine Practices

• Biodynamic and Organic Wines: Biodynamic farming practices integrate ecological principles, ensuring biodiversity and minimizing chemical use. Organic wines are produced without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, promoting soil health.
• Low-Intervention Wines: Seek out wines that are made with minimal intervention in the vineyard and winery, preserving the natural characteristics of the grapes.

3. Choose Beverages with Eco-Friendly Packaging

• Glass and Aluminum: Opt for beverages served in glass bottles or aluminum cans. These materials are widely recyclable and have a lower environmental impact compared to single-use plastics.
• Refillable Containers: Some hotels offer refillable water bottles or growlers for draft beer. Utilize these options to minimize waste from single-use packaging.

4. Look for Hotels with Sustainable Bar Practices

• Energy-Efficient Equipment: Hotels that prioritize sustainability often use energy-efficient refrigeration, lighting, and bar equipment.
• Local Partnerships: Hotels may collaborate with local farmers, breweries, and distilleries to source ingredients and beverages sustainably. Inquire about these partnerships to support local economies and reduce food miles.

5. Support Fair Trade and Ethical Practices

• Fair Trade Coffee and Tea: Choose coffee and tea options that are certified fair trade. Fair trade ensures that farmers receive fair wages and work in safe conditions, promoting social equity and sustainable farming practices.
• Ethical Cocktails: Some hotels feature cocktails made with fair trade spirits or ingredients sourced from ethical suppliers. These practices contribute to a more sustainable supply chain.

6. Reduce Water and Energy Consumption

• Conservation Efforts: Hotels with sustainable practices often implement water-saving measures, such as low-flow faucets and water-efficient dishwashers. Support these efforts by ordering drinks that require minimal water usage in preparation.
• Energy-Efficient Lighting: Choose venues with energy-efficient lighting systems in bar areas. Energy-saving bulbs and fixtures reduce electricity consumption and environmental impact.

7. Practice Responsible Consumption

• Moderation: Enjoy beverages responsibly and avoid excessive consumption. Moderation not only promotes personal well-being but also reduces overall waste and environmental impact.
• Educate and Advocate: Share your knowledge of sustainable drink choices with friends and fellow travelers. Encourage others to make eco-friendly decisions when ordering drinks at hotels.

Conclusion

Making sustainable choices with hotel drinks involves selecting local and seasonal beverages, supporting sustainable wine practices, choosing eco-friendly packaging, seeking hotels with sustainable bar practices, supporting fair trade and ethical practices, reducing water and energy consumption, and practicing responsible consumption. By adopting these tips, you contribute to environmental conservation and support hotels that prioritize sustainability in their operations. Enjoy your hotel drinks responsibly while making a positive impact on the planet.