Technology for sustainable vacation rentals

Today’s advancements in hospitality technology provide a wealth of tools that enable vacation rental professionals to integrate sustainable practices effectively. From energy management systems to water-saving technologies, these innovations help reduce resource consumption and operational costs.

April 22, 2023

Sustainability has become a growing concern for people all around the world, and its importance is increasingly recognized within the hospitality and travel industry. For operators, implementing sustainable practices is not only a way to reduce environmental impact but also a strategic move that can enhance profitability. Over recent years, the hospitality industry has learned that contributing to eco-tourism and sustainability can lead to substantial benefits, including increased guest satisfaction and loyalty.

Today’s advancements in hospitality technology provide a wealth of tools that enable vacation rental professionals to integrate sustainable practices effectively. From energy management systems to water-saving technologies, these innovations help reduce resource consumption and operational costs. For instance, smart thermostats and energy-efficient lighting can lower energy usage, while automated water systems can minimize waste.

Moreover, technology allows for better tracking and reporting of sustainability metrics, enabling property managers to assess their environmental impact and make data-driven improvements. Implementing digital guest communication platforms can also enhance sustainability by reducing the need for printed materials and streamlining the check-in and check-out process.

In this article, we will explore how hospitality professionals can leverage these technological advancements to create more sustainable rental properties. We’ll cover various tools and strategies, from integrating energy-efficient solutions to promoting eco-friendly practices among guests. By embracing technology, you can not only contribute to environmental conservation but also position your property as a leader in sustainable tourism, attracting eco-conscious travelers and maximizing your rental’s profitability.

What are eco-friendly vacation rentals?

Eco-friendly vacation rentals are accommodations that are designed and operated with a focus on minimizing their impact on the environment. These types of vacation rentals typically use sustainable materials and practices, incorporate energy-efficient systems and appliances, and encourage guests to participate in environmentally friendly activities during their stay. Some examples of eco-friendly short term rentals include properties that use solar panels for power, provide organic and locally sourced food options, and have recycling and composting programs in place.

Eco-friendly vacation rentals can be found in a variety of settings, from secluded cabins in the wilderness to luxurious villas on the beach. By choosing to stay in an eco-friendly vacation rental, global travelers can enjoy a unique and sustainable travel experience. This is simultaneously reducing their impact on the environment.

Why does every hospitality business need to be sustainable?

Sustainability is no longer a “nice to have”; it has become a necessity for both the world and the business landscape. For a business to be truly successful in today’s market, integrating sustainable practices is essential. Embracing sustainability should be viewed not just as a responsibility, but as a strategic opportunity to drive customer satisfaction, enhance operational health, and boost profitability.

Incorporating sustainable practices into your business model can lead to numerous benefits. For one, it attracts a growing segment of eco-conscious consumers who prioritize environmental responsibility in their purchasing decisions. By demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, businesses can foster stronger customer loyalty and differentiate themselves from competitors.

Additionally, sustainable practices often lead to operational efficiencies and cost savings. Energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction programs, and resource management can lower operational costs and reduce waste, leading to healthier profit margins. Moreover, a focus on sustainability can enhance your brand’s reputation and create positive marketing opportunities, further driving customer engagement and growth.

Ultimately, viewing sustainability as an untapped opportunity rather than a mere obligation can transform it into a powerful driver of business success. By prioritizing environmental stewardship, businesses can create a positive impact on the planet while also reaping significant financial and reputational rewards.

Here are the top 5 reasons of why hotels and short-term rental industry must embrace sustainability:

Preserving our planet: for future generations and the business

As the world is fighting the Triple planetary emergency of climate disruption, nature loss and pollution, the hospitality industry needs to play its part.

Our industry is responsible for around 1% of global carbon emissions, as well as greenhouse gas production, use of single-use plastic, water and energy waste, and more. We must take action to mitigate these effects. Additionally, our industry heavily depends on the natural world to attract guests, making it crucial that we prioritize its preservation.

By implementing sustainable practices such as energy-efficient systems and waste reduction programs, hospitality businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and help mitigate climate change.

Saving money

The increasing costs affect hotels and vacation rental companies directly, reporting an average 30% increase in operational costs. Higher energy and water bills, increased costs for cleaning and laundry services, food and more are impacting the bottom line.

Sustainable practices can help hospitality businesses save money on operating costs. For example, energy-efficient systems can reduce utility bills, while waste reduction programs can lower waste disposal costs.

The impact of energy crisis on Hospitality in Europe and United States

This winter energy costs were skyrocketing globally, hitting Europe the hardest with natural gas prices 10x higher than last year. Energy companies failing, bills rising, and the local economy suffering. The US, China, and Brazil are also experiencing surging fuel prices affecting spending, logistics, hiring, etc. Old, inefficient buildings in Europe and Canada’s rental stock worsen the situation, especially in colder regions and hot US states. Local governments help businesses with high energy bills.

Attracting more guests

More and more consumers are becoming environmentally conscious and seek out businesses that prioritize sustainability. Latest research reveals that approximately 6 in 10 travelers would choose sustainable lodging if given the option and 1 in 3 would pay extra for it. Committed operators can enhance their reputation, appeal to new audiences, and boost revenue by implementing sustainable practices.

What is sustainable tourism?

Sustainable tourism, also referred to as ecotourism or green tourism, is a type of tourism that aims to acknowledge and take responsibility for its impact on economy, society and environment. This involves considering the needs of the environment and the local community, people visit while traveling. Such concerns as increase in greenhouse gas, overcrowding, and the erosion of socio-cultural identity in communities have prompted the necessity of more sustainable and ethical tourism practices. More and more people become aware and committed to these practices.

Diversifying revenue

Additionally, travelers who are willing to pay more for eco-friendly lodging are also interested in other green initiatives. Offering environmentally-friendly upsells such as emissions-free transportation, locally-sourced products, etc., you can expand your revenue streams and engage guests in “doing good”. By allowing your guests support local communities you’ll make them feel less like tourists.

Complying with regulations

Furthermore, implementing sustainable practices can help hospitality businesses comply with regulations and laws related to environmental protection. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, negative publicity, and damage to the business’s reputation.

Overall, every hospitality business should strive to be sustainable not only for the benefit of the environment but also for the benefit of their bottom line and reputation.

Top 5 tech tools to make vacation rentals sustainable

  1. Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats save money on climate control by optimizing heating and cooling based on occupancy, schedules, and weather patterns, reducing energy waste. Studies show that U.S. households using smart thermostats save an average of 8-12% on heating and 15% on cooling annually, amounting to $50–$150 per year (Energy Star).

Nest reports that its users save 10-12% on heating and 15% on cooling, with some cutting HVAC runtime by 20-30%. Additionally, the EPA estimates that programmable thermostats (a precursor to smart models) can save homeowners $180 yearly if properly used—smart thermostats enhance these savings through automation and remote control. With nearly 40% of U.S. energy use tied to buildings (EIA), smarter climate management significantly cuts costs and carbon footprints (Sources: Energy Star, Nest/Google, EPA, U.S. Energy Information Administration [EIA])

  1. Smart Lighting / Smart Home

Smart lighting and window coverings reduce climate control costs by automating energy efficiency. Smart LED bulbs use 75% less energy than incandescent lights (ENERGY STAR) and can cut lighting costs by $75 annually per household. When paired with motion sensors and daylight harvesting, savings climb further.

Meanwhile, smart blinds and shades optimize natural light and insulation, reducing HVAC loads. Studies show automated window coverings can lower heating and cooling costs by up to 25% by blocking solar heat gain in summer and retaining warmth in winter (DOE). In the U.S., lighting accounts for about 15% of home electricity use (EIA), and smart controls—like schedules and occupancy-based dimming—can slash that usage by 30–50%. Together, these technologies help households save $100–$300 yearly while easing grid demand.

  1. Custom Upsells (Carbon Offset Upgrade)

Enso Connect dynamic platform facilitates hospitality upsells that can be customized and automated to the unique needs of the business. This enables vacation rental operators to engage their guests in initiatives, helping support the environment and local communities.

An example of such initiatives is the Carbon Offset Upgrade, which allows guests to offset their carbon footprint by paying for carbon credits. A portion of the proceeds goes towards a charity that supports carbon reduction initiatives. This feature is cost-effective and affordable for all types of travelers.

Short-term rental operators can choose a guest initiative for donation or action and create their own upsell. They can prompt guests to donate to a local charity, volunteer for a beach clean up, or other similar activities.

  1. Sustainable Transport

Another great way to implement green initiative is offering your guests a sustainable means of transportation. Property managers and owners promote eco-friendly exploration of the destination by encouraging visitors to use bikes, e-bikes, or boats instead of polluting transportation. Some short-term rentals provide these options for free, while others offer rental amenities to generate more revenue.

As electric vehicles become increasingly popular, hospitality business owners are recognizing the need to offer electric vehicle charging solutions to their guests. By providing these amenities, rental properties can attract environmentally conscious guests who own or rent electric cars. Many vacation rental properties are installing EV charging stations to accommodate these guests and to provide a convenient and sustainable way to power their vehicles. There are ways to automate these solutions, such as OK2Charge service.

  1. Going Paperless (Digital Guidebooks)

Having digital guidebooks are great tools to curate local services, products and provide guests with instructions for a sustainable stay. An example can be the Live Like a Local Guide, which suggests local restaurants and shops. No need for pamphlets or printouts that get damaged or lost. Plus - the digital recommendations are ALWAYS up to date!

These are easy ways to educate guests on best practices for recycling, consuming less energy, water usage reduction, and promoting environmental giving.

Sustainability resources for property managers and hosts

We would like to share a couple of great sustainability resources for the short-term rental industry.

EnviroRental

A one-stop-shop free sustainability resource tailored specifically for short-term rental businesses that was launched in December 2022. The founder of this resource is Bob Garner, an industry sustainability advocate. Bob is also the award winning owner of Casal Dei Fichi, the top eco-friendly place to stay in Italy.

EnviroRental was specifically designed for hospitality businesses that want to make their rentals more sustainable but don’t know where to start.

Rent Responsibly

The Rent Responsibly platform is designed to foster a sense of community and provide educational resources for those involved in short-term rentals. Its aim is to simplify the process of connecting hosts and accessing useful information, leading to successful short-term rental alliances. The platform offers a free resource library covering sustainability, advocacy, and other information, helping elevate and protect short-term rental hosting.

Sustonica

The first sustainability accreditation service for vacation rentals. The company, founded by Vanessa De Souza Lage, a short-term rental though leader and activist, aims to unite the vacation rental industry under a unified sustainability standard and inspire guests to adopt sustainable practices.

The Sustonica certification program evaluates the sustainability practices of vacation rentals based on seven of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These goals include energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management (such as recycling bins, refillable dispensers, single-use plastics, etc.), and social responsibility (including cultural heritage site recommendations, noise monitoring, wheelchair accessibility, etc.).

To receive certification, rentals must meet at least 12 out of 40 guidelines. In order to minimize the time investment for property managers, the homes are remotely checked via a 15-minute WhatsApp video call with either the cleaning staff, check-in staff, owner, or manager. The certification is valid for one year.

The Green Path Podcast

with Deborah Labi

The Green Path Podcast is a ‘platform’ to help share the word about sustainability in the vacation rental industry.

Conclusion

The good news is that hospitality is equipped with technology empowering operators to create sustainable practices for properties and guests. By implementing these tools, operators can reduce their carbon footprint, save energy and money, and attract sustainability-minded guests. With the growing concern for the environment, sustainable practices are becoming increasingly essential for vacation rentals to remain competitive in the hospitality industry.