Cooking For Engineers

[tidyswoop]

I work for a company that owns a chain of hotels. Recently, we've decided to undergo an overhaul and make our hotels better for the environment. We're thinking of ways on how we can lower our energy and water consumption and minimize our carbon impact. Any advice or suggestions on how we can achieve this?

[Jim Cooley]

Remove the showers and replace them with buckets and cups?
LOL, I do that in India all the time. After a while you get pretty good at taking a shower out of 5 gallons of water.

Seriously, I don't need fresh sheets every day. Have a questionaire for guests asking how often they'd like the sheets changed. Make the beds, but don't change the sheets until customer asks.

Another thing I've noticed is that hotels try to skimp on energy costs by using low output bulbs. Overall, I'd imagine you'd save more energy by having strategically placed high-output bulbs on desks, next to beds (for reading) than some dim overhead CFLs.

And ditch the bottled water unless asked for, then provide free of charge. A covered pitcher, nice fresh water and clean glasses are really all that's necessary.

[glutinousresigned]

Tell the management to get the services of management companies that caters utility expense management services. I know there are companies that provide solutions and will help their clients to proactively manage their energy in the most cost effective way.

[tidyswoop]

Oooh. Thanks for your advice regarding the sheets, bulbs and water. I'll make sure to take note of them, do some research and maybe include them in my proposal.
And yes, they are considering hiring the services of this company. I heard they're going to ask for a quote before this week ends.