Practical Example: Waste Management at Hotel Stern

As part of its ongoing sustainability initiative, “I schaug auf di. Du schaugsch auf mi.” (“I look after you. You look after me.”), Hotel Stern in Obsteig highlighted an issue in 2015: the PET bottles brought in by guests were not only environmentally problematic (made from fossil-based raw materials and rarely reused), but also created an ever-growing waste management challenge for hotel staff.

Together with the manufacturers of EMIL, the hotel developed a hygienic, bright green reusable deposit bottle specifically for Hotel Stern. Every guest receives one at check-in and can use it free of charge throughout their stay. Attractive water stations are located throughout the hotel, offering water infused with seasonal fruit and herbs and inviting guests to refill their bottles.

Water campaigns inform guests about the high-quality local tap water, known as “Ursprungswasser” (“water from the source”), and its associated water footprint. A free carafe of chilled “Ursprungswasser” is always available in guest rooms and the hotel restaurant. Guests who order sparkling “Ursprungswasser” in a carafe are asked to pay a contribution towards costs.

At check-out, guests return their bottles to reception, where they are hygienically cleaned and prepared for the next guests.

Benefits

• Waste from imported PET bottles was reduced by 90% within a short period.

• Guests handle the bottles with great care, meaning they remain in circulation for a long time, with very few being lost or damaged.

• The bottles are cleaned as part of the hotel's regular cleaning processes (in the dishwasher or washing machine); no special procedures are required.

• The bottles are not for sale. The guiding principle is “use, don't own”. Guests can request information about the product or the manufacturer's online shop.

• Every adult and child carries a bright green bottle. This behaviour has become the norm, while using PET bottles is now the exception.

• Children earn eco-points in the form of STERN stars when they choose healthy “Ursprungswasser” instead of a sugary drink with their meal. The stars they collect are recognised and rewarded during the CO₂ check-out.

• Without lecturing or imposing rigid rules, the hotel gives guests sustainable ideas to take home with them. This creates a sense of connection and encourages guests, employees and producers to share their experiences at Hotel Stern with others.

• There has been no significant loss of beverage revenue at any point.

Photo credits: Hotel Stern, Obsteig, Tirol

Links: EMIL die Flasche