Can You Have both Enhanced Hygiene and Sustainability?

Faced with the Covid-19 threat, there is immense pressure to use toxic disinfectants, despite the availability of safer products, and there is a massive return to single-use materials (e.g. disposable masks, gloves, aprons, etc). This cannot be avoided completely, but can certainly be minimised. The World Health Organisation has clearly stated that soap and water can destroy the coronavirus. Is it really necessary to use so much disinfection and especially Chlorine, a substance that is harmful to the respiratory system of the staff and guests making them even more vulnerable to the virus?

Chlorine also destroys and discolours surfaces. In the case of Covid-19 we have measures – both practices and products – that can offer protection without using toxic products that increase risk factors. These include simple methods like hot steam cleaning or natural-based substances with active ingredients like Ethanol, Isopropanol, Hydrogen Peroxide for cleaning high-touch surfaces. 

This is also a great time to rethink the use of single-use plastic (SUP) hotel room amenities. Removing unnecessary items such as miniature toiletries means fewer items to harbor germs. If the numerous SUP amenities typically found in hotel bathrooms are left behind unopened when a guest leaves, housekeeping either has to spend extra time cleaning and sanitizing them properly; or dispose of them to be on the safe side, creating waste and wasting money. Guests will now be more open to accepting changes that remove risks. 

Conversations can continue with suppliers on improving sustainable procurement without any compromise to guest hygiene. Companies such as Diversey and EcoLab are already able to provide sustainable cleaning solutions in Kenya. At a time when establishments are under pressure to manage costs as they re-open, the measurable benefits to operating more sustainably should not be forgotten. Initial investment can be recovered quickly in the subsequent efficiencies and cost savings. There are also other learnings relevant for post-Covid operations, for example switching to renewable energy sources or more energy efficient appliances to manage emissions amid increased laundry services and temperatures. 

The combination of the above measures with practical guidelines, and staff training can contribute towards safe and sustainable cleaning and hygiene in the tourism sector that serves all three needs: the health of employees, guests, and the planet.

Reference

Hygiene and Sustainability: How to make both work? – Contributions from 17 experts on www.hospitalitynet.org