Growing hotel swag trend: More Japanese lodgings provide green amenities

As Japan’s Plastic Resource Circulation Act will be enacted in April, the nation’s interest in a circular economy is likely to increase. The Act promotes the society to “not generate waste” instead of the conventional “reduce waste.” The government’s “3R+Renewable” policy, which increases the circularity of materials, is expected to impact consumers as well as give new perspectives for businesses. The tourism and lodging industries are no exception and will be encouraged to integrate the new policy into their businesses and designs.

Consumer awareness of sustainable travel has been growing as well. In a recent survey aimed at travelers regarding environmentally-conscious hotels, 71% indicated that they received a “good impression” of the facilities. The lodging industry is well aware of what their current and prospective guests look for in their accommodations. Some hotels and manufacturers are already eager to serve the emerging demand for sustainable options.

Design brands release reusable hotel amenities made of sustainable materials

A Japanese sustainable brand, MiYo Organic, recently released reusable amenities made of green materials. The collection offers a set of cotton pads & organic bamboo swabs, an organic bamboo hair comb, a cotton case and a 100% cotton tie string bag.

Bamboo is a durable alternative resource to plastics and wood due to its carbon dioxide absorption ability. Additionally, bamboo plants grow much faster than usual trees, taking only three years to reach full size. They require little water to grow naturally.

Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku, a traditional Japanese hotel in Tokyo, has already incorporated MiYo’s Organic amenities. Chillnn, a hotel in Kanazawa, and Good Nature Hotel Kyoto also use their amenities. These items can match the style of the hotel because Miyo Organic will customize the amenities by embedding logos and designing original packaging. The unique and durable items like toothbrushes and combs make great souvenirs to take home and reuse even after the trip.

Another Japanese brand, SUS Organic, has also launched a line of eco-friendly amenities. It currently includes corn-derived shower caps and a variety of bamboo products, including swabs, toothbrushes, combs and razors. Including corn, the products that utilize plant biomass material have less impact on the environment than conventional petroleum-based material.

Broad appeal can lead us to a sustainable future

The new Plastic Resource Circulation Act has significant implications for our society. However, a sustainable future is less likely without willful support and clear benefits for all. If you are tired of disposable hotel amenities, lodging at facilities with reusable and environmentally friendly swag is likely to make your trips more satisfying and sustainable. The Japanese hotel industry has just begun offering these sustainable options, and we, as guests, can support the movement to positively influence their future decisions.

[Reference] PR TIMES
[Reference] Life Hugger