‘How do I know a hotel is sustainable?’ I get this a lot. I stumble on the word ‘sustainable’ for starters — it’s become a little meaningless, don’t you think? The most appealing accommodation is that which contributes more to the environment and community than it takes away — a tall order.
And it’s getting harder for the average traveller to discern. Is that chain hotel outpost really impact-driven? Or low carbon? How do they measure and report on this? Let’s instead salute energy-lean businesses. My favourite hotels are independent and owner-run, with a clear mission to be better businesses. The Bull Organic Inn, Totnes, is a trailblazer in ethical eating and drinking, but because this Devon restaurant with rooms is listed, hard-liners might be frustrated that its upcycled-chic bedrooms don’t have efficient glazing. It highlights that there’s no hard and fast rule. Inhabit hotel in Paddington was just certified B Corp. I love that it recruits marginalised women and pays all the living wage — but that doesn’t speak to every aspect of sustainability.
