Plastics – And Why Hotels Should Still Care

Let’s start with what we all already know. The wellness tourism sector is experiencing substantial economic growth, with significant impact and opportunities for the hotel industry. In 2023, the global wellness economy reached a record $6.3 trillion, accounting for 6.03% of global GDP, and is projected to grow at an annual rate of 7.3%, potentially reaching nearly $9 trillion by 20281. Overall, wellness tourism is projected to reach $1.4 trillion by 2027, with significant growth in spending and trips.2 This surge underscores the importance for hotels to invest in wellness amenities to capture this expanding market and drive economic growth.

But what does wellness tourism have to do with hotel plastics? Scientists are sounding alarms and any wellness driven industry (like hotels) needs to prepare for what is approaching.

For example, in a discussion on The Joe Rogan Experience, environmental epidemiologist Dr. Shanna Swan highlights the impact of chemicals in plastics on human health, stating, By every measure, our sperm counts, fertility rate, and testosterone levels – are all decreasing by about 1% per year. She attributes this decline to endocrine disruptors called phthalates, which are prevalent in our environment and food supply due to plastics.3

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HYB 2025 Sustainability Tech Edition

The upcoming edition of the Hotel Yearbook, titled "Sustainable Technology for Hospitality," offers essential insights into the transformative role of sustainable technologies within the hospitality industry. Arriving at a critical moment, a decade after the Paris Agreement, this edition emphasizes the growing urgency for intensified sustainable practices. It explores a broad range of themes, including sustainable hotel architecture, energy- saving designs, and nature-based solutions. The yearbook delves into carbon management tools for Scopes 1, 2, and 3, circular economy practices for waste minimization, water conservation techniques, sustainable supply chains, and AI-driven ESG reporting. Additionally, it covers green finance for real estate and addresses implementation challenges across diverse regions. Through a rich compilation of thought-provoking articles, case studies, and expert opinions, this publication serves as a valuable resource for industry leaders, providing the insights, strategies, and forecasts necessary to advance sustainability through innovative technologies. The HYB 2025 edition aims to guide, inspire, and challenge professionals in the hospitality sector to embrace and drive sustainable technology in their operations.
www.hotelyearbook.com/edition/sus-2025.html