BWH Hotels introduces a revolutionary carbon calculator for its UK properties, empowering guests who are willing to pay more for eco-friendly, sustainable stays.

In a proactive step towards sustainability, BWH Hotels is empowering its network of 230 independent UK properties with a groundbreaking carbon management tool. This initiative aligns with the increasing environmental awareness among travelers, highlighted by a recent survey where two-thirds of BWH Reward guests expressed a willingness to pay a premium for eco-friendly accommodations.

Recognizing the significant impact of sustainability on consumer choices, with 88% of guests considering a hotel’s environmental efforts as a key factor in their booking decisions, BWH Hotels has integrated this feedback into their strategic vision. This encompasses prominent brands such as Best Western and World Hotels, underlining their commitment as the UK’s largest independent hotel group.

The newly introduced carbon calculator provides a detailed assessment of each hotel’s emissions, offering specific insights into high-impact areas like food and beverage services, particularly those involving high-carbon options such as red meat. This tool is designed in collaboration with the Zero Carbon Forum and incorporates the latest environmental standards and benchmarks from COP 29, including ambitious targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 81% by 2035.

This innovative tool not only aids in reducing operational and energy costs but also positions BWH Hotels favorably for corporate bookings, particularly with B Corps and travel management companies, enhancing their revenue prospects.

Furthermore, the carbon calculator is a cornerstone of BWH Hotels’ ongoing partnership with Quality in Tourism. It supports the REST accreditation, aiming to guide independent hoteliers towards achieving this esteemed sustainability certification by 2025.

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.”

Scheduled for an early March rollout, the carbon calculator will be accessible to all hoteliers within the BWH Hotels GB network, marking a significant milestone in their journey towards environmental stewardship and operational excellence.

The post BWH Hotels Rolls Out Revolutionary Carbon Calculator for UK Hotels as Guests Willing to Pay More for Sustainable Stays appeared first on Travel And Tour World.