FMI says that the ecotel is a hallmark representing environmentally sustainable hotels, initiated by HVS, a global consulting giant in the hospitality sector
The global market for ecotels or sustainable hotels is set to grow rapidly in the next years says a report by Future Market Insights (FMI), a market research firm.
In a press statement, FMI says that the concept of green tourism is becoming popular globally and this is expected to drive the market for ecotel certification shortly. Many tourists and travellers across the globe are aware of the concept of ecotel hotels. Hotel guests are also becoming conscious of environmental problems, and many such guests have started considering these problems when choosing their accommodation.
It adds that the tourists like to contribute to the act of environmental preservation. Ecotels are the trendsetters in the tourism and hospitality industry, where hotel guests want to participate in green practices. The procedures and standards laid by eco-friendly ecotel hotels are being implemented by most of the tourism wings such as resorts, hotels, restaurants, industrial catering, travel and trade and motels.
In ecotel hotels, the concept of reducing, reusing, and recycling is strictly applied to water management. The usage of electricity is also reduced by the use of LED lamps, green buttons, fussy logic systems, etc. Further, the rising awareness about global warming and other environmental ill effects among tourists is generating the demand for ecotels.
FMI says that the ecotel is a hallmark representing environmentally sustainable hotels, initiated by HVS, a global consulting giant in the hospitality sector. While most of the certifications about environmental sustainability emphasise building physical structures and hotels, ecotel focuses hugely on the operational part of the hotels. The ecotel certification is based on five key areas such as water conservation, energy conservation, employee environmental education, solid waste management, and environmental commitment. The ecotel certification enables the hotel to become sustainable and green by involving the total value chain of architects, suppliers, employees, owners, operators, and guests.
FMI says that even though the construction cost of ecotel hotels is around 10-15 pc more than regular hotels, ecotels try to consistently demonstrate a focused effort on waste reduction and increased operational efficiency. It says that several extra features such as the green button, building management systems, sewage treatment plant, CFL and LED lamps, de-super heater, cool deck, fly ash bricks, and vermicomposting pit have to be incorporated during the initial stage of construction. This adds focus to the overall construction cost of the hotel. However, some leading global players are investing heavily in ecotel hotels anticipating long-term savings and related benefits.
This is because the tag of ecotel is expected to attract travellers who believe in the concept of responsible tourism. Further, the strict environmental regulations and rules can act as a challenge for the construction of ecotel hotels in environmentally sensitive areas as these hotels need to be constructed keeping in mind the eco norms of the local area.
The report by FMI says that the market witnessed a growth trajectory of 7.9 pc between 2018 and 2022. The United States dominates the ecotel tourism market in the North America region with a value share of 11 pc in 2022, while the ecotel tourism market in the United Kingdom is poised for a 7 pc CAGR. Moreover, the increasing awareness and concern for sustainable practices among tourists have fueled the demand for eco-friendly accommodations in the country.
It adds that the government of the United Kingdom has placed emphasis on sustainable tourism and environmental conservation, promoting initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and support eco-friendly practices in the hospitality industry. This focus on sustainability aligns with the growing consumer preference for eco-conscious travel experiences.
