Frequently Asked Questions

1. If we use desalinated water, doesn’t that mean we can use as much as we want?

Not quite. Desalination plays an important role in regions where freshwater is scarce, and for many hotels it provides a reliable and independent water source. It also contributes to the conservation of natural freshwater reserves, which is increasingly important in water-stressed areas. However, the process still comes with environmental and financial costs. It requires energy, and depending on the source, this can result in significant greenhouse gas emissions. Brine management is another key consideration—if not handled properly, it can impact local ecosystems.

Desalination technology has improved significantly in recent years, and some modern systems are far more efficient than those used in the past. This makes it a more viable option in locations where other sources of water are limited or unreliable. That said, reducing overall consumption (of both water and energy) remains essential. This applies regardless of where the water comes from. Using less means lower energy demand for pumping and heating, reduced operating costs, and less pressure on infrastructure.

So, while desalination isn’t a perfect solution, it can be a valuable part of a broader water strategy.

2. Our hotel is in a region where it rains a lot—do we really need to worry about water use?

Even in regions with regular rainfall, it’s still important to treat water with care. A wet climate doesn’t always mean water is available when and where it’s needed—especially during peak demand or when local infrastructure is under pressure. Respecting water use is part of good resource management, regardless of how plentiful it may seem.

Rainwater harvesting can be a useful tool, particularly for uses like garden irrigation or flushing toilets. But collecting rainwater doesn’t replace the need to reduce unnecessary use elsewhere. Avoiding waste, fixing leaks, and using water efficiently across all departments—indoors and out—helps build a culture of respect for water, which is increasingly important as weather patterns become less predictable.

3. What’s the point of reducing water if we’re not paying much for it?

Water might be relatively inexpensive in many locations, but that doesn’t mean it comes without cost. Wasted water carries hidden expenses that often go unnoticed, such as the additional energy required to heat, pump, and treat it, or the increased wear and tear on plumbing, laundry, and kitchen equipment. Over time, these operational inefficiencies can lead to higher maintenance costs and shortened equipment lifespans.

Beyond day-to-day operations, reducing water use is also about preparing for the future. Water tariffs may rise, particularly as utilities companies respond to infrastructure strain, climate change or policy shifts. Supply interruptions, even temporary ones, are becoming more frequent due to climate variability or seasonal demand. Hotels that already have strong water management practices in place are better positioned to adapt to these changes with minimal disruption to service or cost.

There’s also a reputational aspect to consider. As sustainability becomes more important to travellers, businesses seen to be careless with water, even in regions where it’s abundant, may risk being viewed as out of step with growing expectations around environmental responsibility.

4. We have our own borehole—so we’re self-sufficient, right?

Having your own borehole can give you more control over your water supply, but it’s important to remember that groundwater is often a shared resource. In many areas, farmers, neighbouring businesses, or communities may be drawing from the same aquifer, meaning overuse in one location can affect the availability and quality of water for others.

Boreholes need to be monitored and managed carefully. Pumping too much, especially in coastal areas, can lead to saltwater intrusion, making the water unusable. Poor maintenance can also lead to contamination or equipment failure.

Even if the borehole is on your property, the water it accesses isn’t unlimited or guaranteed. Using it efficiently, keeping records, and carrying out regular checks are all part of managing that supply responsibly.

5. Should we offer incentives for guests to save water?

This really depends on what you’re able to track and measure. For example, it’s easier to offer incentives for actions like skipping room cleaning, or reusing towels where housekeeping records can show which rooms opted out. For other water-saving behaviours like shorter showers, it’s harder to verify unless each guest room has an individual water meter, and even then, it would require detailed management.  In smaller accommodations this could be possible, this case study from My Green Butler shows the impacts of guest behaviour that has been influenced by communications.  The key is to choose approaches that align with your operations and that staff can realistically monitor.

It’s also worth remembering that staff are often left out of incentive schemes. Recognising their role in helping deliver water-saving measures, not just operationally, but through how they engage with guests, can go a long way in building support and motivation across the team.