According to a recent report by Booking.com on sustainable travel, 79% of travelers are actively looking to stay in a sustainable hotel.
More and more people are seeking ways to explore the world responsibly, leaving a positive impact rather than a negative footprint.
Traveling is no longer just about getting away from it all. It’s also about reconnecting with the planet, with local communities, and with the values that shape a more conscious lifestyle.
But what exactly does it mean to stay in a sustainable hotel? What are its key features? And how can you tell if a hotel truly follows sustainable practices?
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, so you can make informed choices for your next eco-conscious journey.
How Does Tourism Impact Carbon Emissions?
Various studies indicate that tourism accounts for 5% to 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and between 1% and 3% of that comes from the hotel sector alone.
That’s why it has become essential for hotels to manage their environmental impact and adopt initiatives that reduce their carbon footprint, all while continuing to offer comfort and excellent service to their guests.
Energy consumption for air conditioning, lighting, hot water, food preparation, and facility maintenance are the main contributors to a hotel’s environmental impact.
What Makes a Hotel Sustainable?
A sustainable hotel is one that integrates environmental, social, and economic responsibility into every aspect of its operation, without compromising on comfort.
According to the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), sustainable tourism is based on three pillars:
- Environmental responsibility
- Socio-cultural integrity
- Economic viability
A sustainable hotel goes beyond LED lights and banning plastic straws. It considers sustainability in everything: from architecture and water management to supplier relationships and employee well-being.
This holistic approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and seeks to ensure that tourism has a lasting, positive impact.
What Are the Core Features of a Sustainable Hotel?
Sustainable accommodations aim to optimize resource use, reduce carbon emissions, and foster meaningful engagement with the local community.
Implement eco-conscious practices
- Use renewable energy sources like solar panels or geothermal systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Harvest and reuse rainwater for irrigation and non-potable purposes like cleaning floors and bathrooms.
- Build with local and natural materials, reducing the transportation footprint and supporting regional economies.
- Optimize energy efficiency with LED lighting, smart thermostats, and bulk dispensers for toiletries to reduce single-use plastics.
- Develop recycling programs for cleaning materials and construction waste; implement composting for organic kitchen waste.
- Participate in environmental conservation projects, such as wildlife protection and reforestation initiatives.
Support local communities and invest in human talent
- Prioritize local employment through fair labor practices and ongoing training.
- Partner with local businesses and entrepreneurs, integrating their products and services into the guest experience.
- Promote regional culture and traditions while educating guests and staff on sustainable habits.
Types of Sustainable Accommodation
Eco-friendly hotel vs. Ecohotel
While “eco-friendly hotel” and “ecohotel” are often used interchangeably, in Colombia, an ecohotel is aligned with national sustainability standards such as NTS-TS 002, which include clear environmental, social, and economic criteria for hospitality establishments.
Sustainable boutique hotel
A blend of charm, personalized service, and responsible values. These properties offer a more intimate experience while minimizing environmental impact and celebrating cultural authenticity.
Ecotourism hotel
Typically located in nature-rich areas, these hotels provide immersive experiences that highlight biodiversity and local traditions. They often include activities like nature hikes, reforestation, and environmental education.
The Guest's Role in Hotel Sustainability
A hotel cannot achieve its sustainability goals without the participation of its guests. Every visitor plays a part in minimizing the property’s environmental impact.
Here are a few simple yet powerful actions guests can take:
- Reuse towels and bed linens instead of requesting daily changes.
- Turn off lights, fans, and AC when leaving the room.
- Respect local ecosystems and follow nature-friendly guidelines.
- Opt for eco-friendly transport options like walking, biking, or carpooling.
- Support local businesses by purchasing regional, seasonal products.
How Can You Identify a Sustainable Hotel?
There are various certifications and seals that recognize hotels committed to sustainability. In Colombia, the ICONTEC (Colombian Institute of Technical Standards and Certification) issues the NTS-TS 002 certification to hotels that meet rigorous sustainability criteria.
Other platforms like Tripadvisor have created their own programs, such as EcoLeaders, to highlight accommodations that excel in eco-friendly practices.
When in doubt, look for transparency. Reputable sustainable hotels often showcase their environmental and social policies clearly on their websites and during your stay.
Why Is Sumangá a Sustainable Boutique Hotel?
From the moment Sumangá Hotel Boutique was conceived, sustainability has been a core part of its mission. Nestled in nature, romantic, and pet-friendly, this retreat in Sutatausa is proof that elegance and responsibility can go hand in hand.
Here are some of the initiatives we’ve embraced to stay true to our values:
- We sort our waste into five labeled containers: plastics, organics, recyclables, packaging, and non-recyclables.
- We manage a composting area for organic waste generated in our kitchen, turning it into natural fertilizer for our gardens.
- We provide refillable dispensers in all showers and bathrooms to reduce single-use plastic containers.
- Ingredients used in our kitchen come from our own organic garden or are sourced from local farmers in the Ubaté valley.
- Our cleaning products are biodegradable, ensuring we care for water sources and ecosystems.
- All of our staff are local residents, hired with full legal compliance and treated with fairness and respect.
- We display environmental awareness signs throughout the property to encourage mindful behavior.
- We support a local reforestation program in partnership with the Sutatausa municipality, donating native plant species for ecological restoration.
Leaving a Positive Footprint
Tourism doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. On the contrary, it can be a powerful force for change.
A sustainable hotel isn’t just a place to sleep. It’s an invitation to connect, reflect, and engage with a better way of traveling.
At Sumangá Hotel Boutique, every decision—from composting to community support—is a commitment to protect what we love most: nature, people, and culture.
Travel can leave a footprint. Let’s make sure it’s a good one.