TRAVEL/SUSTAINABILITY
The Rise of Bulk Toiletry Dispensers in the Hospitality Industry
Balancing Sustainability and Hygiene
“We expect it to be cost neutral. We are not doing it for the cost aspect. Plastic is plastic but one important element to understand is the tiny bottles are not recyclable in most scenarios. The larger bottles are highly recyclable.” — Denise Naguib, vice president of sustainability and supply diversity for Marriott, per The Atlanta Journal Constitution.
As a frequent traveler, I have noticed over the last several years that many hotel chains are beginning to use bulk toiletry dispensers in their guestrooms. At first glance, it seems to be a positive change for the hospitality industry and hotel guests.
Per American Hotel Blog:
“The chief impetus, of course, is reducing the use of plastic, which means less plastic in our landfills and beyond. According to some environmental advocates, nearly 33 million pounds of plastic waste wash into the world’s oceans each year, threatening marine life. In Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report 2022, 81% of global travelers said that traveling sustainably is important to them.”
