The initiative of Cactus Hotels in collaboration with the non-profit company ReHORECA aims to create an integrated system of circular economy and waste management in the hotel sector.
The modern trend in the tourism product “imposes” the adoption of sustainability practices and methods, with the least possible environmental burden.
At the same time, the trend in destination choice by visitors/tour operators is shaped on the basis of the environmental characteristics of each property and, more broadly, of the region. According to the GSTC organization, a large percentage of visitors choose accommodations according to their environmental footprint.
Based on a “business-as-usual” scenario developed by the UN Environment Programme, global tourism is expected by 2050 to record an increase of 154% in energy consumption, 131% in greenhouse gas emissions, 152% in water consumption, and 251% in solid waste disposal.
The cooperation with the NGO ReHORECA was established mainly with a vision: to organize and implement a customized model of environmental management in hotel establishments, large catering structures, and staff gathering spaces, with the aim of reducing resource waste. At the same time, it created a way of implementing the necessary actions that can be certified mainly on the basis of results, in order to make the environmental character of each property clear to the guests, with objective measurements on real results (weighing logs), which will lead to top certifications and awards. However, the greatest reward ultimately comes from the guests themselves, those who will choose the Cactus Hotels chain based on the environmental impact, since the goal of reducing the waste of essential and non-renewable resources will be achieved at high levels.
The methods applied are personalized and fully adapted to the needs of each requirement and according to the operation and needs of each property. At the same time, a detailed environmental plan is drawn up, which defines the goals but mainly describes and ensures how these goals will be achieved.
The nature of the cooperation guarantees that the services provided will be absolutely clear, easy to implement, with immediately measurable results and low cost.
Key goals are:
- Reduction of the environmental footprint through proper management, reduction, and recycling of generated waste.
- Preparation of a holistic environmental management plan.
- Coordination of a “green team” and setting of goals.
- Continuous monitoring on a weekly basis of the plan’s implementation.
- Training of all staff, not only those directly involved in the program.
- Direct cooperation with certification bodies for the validation of results (TÜV Austria Zero Waste to Landfill ZWtL).
- Preparation of reports through specialized partners on bioclimatic design, construction, and energy management.
- Collection and management of at least 9 waste streams.
- Provision of basic equipment for the program’s implementation.
- Collection and management of food that has not become waste in order to be delivered to vulnerable groups and social economy organizations (K.A.l.O.), under HACCP safety conditions.
- Advice and monitoring for smart reuse of equipment before disposal, or provision of the equipment for social purposes.
- Services for highlighting the local natural and cultural heritage.
- Nutritional event programs aimed at showcasing local products.
- Programs for guiding guests so that the orientation and targeting of the property become clear.
- Programs for the overall reduction of food, energy, and water waste.
- Programs for maintaining the quality of beaches and marine ecosystems.
- Training and activation of staff, partners, and guests in practices of responsible consumption and resource management.
- Creation of good practices that can serve as a model for Greek tourism and hospitality.
- Strengthening cooperation with the local community and stakeholders so that the benefits extend beyond the hotels.
- The joint creation of a GMMO for sustainable tourism in Crete.
