BWH Hotels is empowering its 230 independent hotels across the UK to manage their environmental impact by introducing a new carbon calculator. This initiative comes as a response to the increasing preference for sustainability among travelers. A survey involving around 1,200 members of the BWH Rewards program highlighted that 67% of respondents are willing to spend more on accommodations that demonstrate a commitment to environmental practices.

As the leading network of independent hotels in the UK, which includes brands like Best Western and World Hotels, BWH Hotels has noted a significant trend where a hotel’s sustainability efforts are a key factor in the booking decisions of 88% of its guests.

The carbon calculator tool provides a detailed assessment of carbon emissions at each hotel and suggests specific areas for improvement, such as food and beverage services, where reducing high-carbon footprint items like red meat can make a difference.

This tool was created in collaboration with the Zero Carbon Forum and is customized for the unique needs of hotel operations. It reflects the latest updates from COP 29, including key performance indicators aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 81% by 2035.

By lowering carbon emissions, hotels not only reduce their energy and operational expenses but also position themselves favorably for corporate bookings through partnerships with B Corps and travel management companies, enhancing their revenue potential.

Tracy Wilkins, Operations Director at BWH Hotels, said: “With such a broad network, we have a unique insight into what guests truly value when it comes to sustainability.

“We know guests are happy to pay more if they know food is locally sourced or that the hotel is supporting wildlife with nearly a quarter (23 per cent) willing to pay ‘moderately more’ to stay somewhere that is genuinely making an effort.

“We know sustainability is a priority for our hoteliers. But we understand how daunting it can feel to implement sustainable changes that comply with the Climate Change Act and the Environment Bill – especially with recent pressures like rising NI and minimum wage rates. 

“Our carbon calculator simplifies sustainability for busy hoteliers, giving them practical, cost-effective solutions in minutes – whether it’s sourcing locally or adjusting energy usage to reduce carbon emissions.”

Mark Chapman, CEO at Zero Carbon Services, commented: “Customers and employees increasingly want to see the companies they work for – and buy from – being part of solving the climate crisis. 

“We are working with BWH Hotels GB to support every hotelier to take credible climate action through measuring their emissions then identifying and implementing reduction initiatives on their route to net zero.”

BWH Hotels GB is set to introduce a new carbon calculator in early March, aimed at assisting hoteliers within its network. This tool is part of a collaboration with Quality in Tourism to support the REST accreditation, an initiative focused on sustainability. By using this calculator, independent hoteliers are expected to meet the certification requirements by 2025.

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