Why the Hospitality Industry Is the Frontline of Sustainability — And What We’re Doing About It

The hospitality industry is a major contributor to global waste but also holds one of the most powerful levers for environmental progress. In this article, we explore the scale of the problem, the untapped potential for change, and how ÖSA is helping reshape the sector with measurable, design driven sustainability solutions.

By ÖSA Editorial Team

Understanding the Scale of Hospitality’s Waste Problem

From luxury hotels to major airlines, the global hospitality industry produces millions of tons of waste annually. A 100 room hotel alone can generate more than 300,000 single use plastic items per year. A figure that compounds exponentially across the industry.

Much of this waste is avoidable. Single use slippers, plastic toiletry bottles, individually wrapped amenities, and synthetic spa kits are often discarded after one use, ending up in landfills or oceans where they persist for hundreds of years. Unfortunately, most guests remain unaware of the environmental cost of their stay, and many properties lack tools to track or report on their waste footprint.

This results in a significant credibility gap between public facing sustainability claims and actual operational practices. It is not just a material problem. It is a systemic one.

Why Hospitality Is Poised to Lead Climate Action

The hospitality sector is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change. Here is why:

Massive Visibility

Properties host millions of guests annually and influence traveler behavior at scale. Every product decision sends a message.

High Volume, High Impact

Swapping even a single high waste item for a sustainable alternative can lead to dramatic reductions in total waste generated.

Market Pressure

Today’s eco conscious travelers are not just asking for change. They are demanding it. Sustainable offerings are no longer differentiators. They are expectations.

When done right, sustainability creates value across the board. Increased brand loyalty, stronger regulatory positioning, and new market appeal. But getting it right means moving beyond generic pledges and into action that is verifiable, visible, and replicable.

The ÖSA Approach: Where Design Meets Data

ÖSA (Organic Supply Agency) is helping hospitality leaders turn intention into impact. Our work is built around one goal: to make environmental progress measurable and desirable.

Here is how we are doing it:

1. Waste Focused Product Swaps

We help properties identify their highest waste generating items. From spa kits to slippers. And replace them with certified biodegradable, refillable, or circular alternatives. Every product is carefully vetted to meet luxury standards while minimizing environmental harm.

2. The ÖSA Wastage Calculator™

This proprietary tool empowers hotels, airlines, and resorts to calculate their current waste output and model potential reductions through better material choices. It is data driven, intuitive, and tailored to each hospitality type.

3. Brand Aligned Campaigns

Sustainability should be seen, felt, and celebrated. Our creative team works with partners to craft beautiful, on brand storytelling. From in room messaging to digital guest touchpoints. That reinforces a property’s environmental values.

4. Transparent Progress Tracking

Through optional audit programs, we help businesses measure, verify, and showcase their improvements. Properties can issue transparent reports and benchmark progress against industry standards.

Where We Go from Here

This is a critical moment. Hospitality brands that lead on sustainability will help define what modern, responsible travel looks like. The tools now exist to transform vague ambitions into credible impact. And ÖSA is proud to be a partner in that journey.

As we continue our work, we will be highlighting the properties, teams, and creative campaigns driving the sustainability movement forward. Our next piece will explore how ÖSA’s certification model is setting new expectations for transparency and results in the hospitality sector.

Follow along as we build a cleaner, smarter industry from the inside out.

Why is the hospitality industry a major contributor to global waste?

Because it serves millions of guests every day using one time items like plastic slippers, toiletry bottles, and wrapped amenities that are discarded after a single stay. These items accumulate quickly and create an enormous environmental footprint.

What types of waste do hotels and resorts typically generate?

The most common include single use plastics, synthetic spa kits, non recyclable packaging, and disposable products that cannot be composted or reused.

Are most guests aware of this problem?

No. Most guests do not see what is thrown away or how it is handled. Without clear communication or reporting, the environmental cost remains hidden.

Why should hospitality brands act now on sustainability?

Because traveler expectations have changed. Guests now prefer to support brands that reflect their values. Sustainability is no longer optional. It is a key factor in booking decisions and long term brand trust.

What does ÖSA actually provide?

We offer smart product replacements, data driven tools like the ÖSA Wastage Calculator, and brand aligned storytelling to help hospitality properties reduce waste and clearly communicate their environmental commitment.

How does the ÖSA Wastage Calculator work?

It calculates a property's current waste output and models how much could be saved by switching to certified sustainable alternatives. It is fast, visual, and tailored to hotels, airlines, and cruise lines.

Is this only for luxury hotels?

No. Our tools and products work for boutique hotels, independent resorts, large chains, airlines, and any hospitality platform committed to improving its environmental impact.

Is switching to sustainable products more expensive?

Not always. Many clients see savings through reduced waste disposal costs, higher guest satisfaction, and longer term tax and regulatory advantages. Plus, sustainable offerings often allow for premium positioning.

Can a brand just say it is sustainable without making product changes?

No. That is greenwashing. Guests are more informed than ever. Real change comes from action. ÖSA works with properties that want to show progress backed by real data.