Hotels Taking Steps Towards Sustainability in Austria

Biohotel Grafenast, Tyrol's pioneering CO2 neutral hotel, exemplifies sustainable hospitality by integrating a comprehensive set of eco-friendly practices into its operations. The hotel's mature structure is a testament to its commitment to sustainability, using building materials from sustainable resources and strategically designed windows that block heat and cold, enhancing energy efficiency. The hotel goes beyond just conservation of resources, engaging in larger eco-friendly initiatives like reforestation and wildlife conservation. Rainwater collection systems and the use of non-toxic cleaning products reflect their dedication to sustainable practices. Their dining services follow suit, serving organic food sourced mainly from local producers, providing a vegetarian menu, and forgoing disposable cutlery and plates.

The Grafenast's eco-friendly ethos is prevalent in all aspects of the guest experience. An array of bicycles is available for guests, fostering environmentally friendly exploration of the surroundings. Electric car charging stations cater to green travelers, while LED lighting is used throughout the premises, enhancing energy efficiency. Thoughtfully placed signs in rooms inform guests that towels will only be changed upon request, encouraging water conservation. Recycling bins in guest rooms, a dedicated policy for waste separation, and composting of organic waste attest to the hotel's comprehensive waste management plan. The hotel's commitment to transparency is evident in its use of recognized CO2 measurement tools to track its carbon footprint. An inspiring blend of relaxation and eco-consciousness, the Biohotel Grafenast offers an unparalleled sustainable stay, enabling guests to contribute to global climate goals while enjoying breathtaking views over the Inn Valley.

The Almfamilyhotel Scherer presents an example of eco-friendly hospitality at its best, cleverly weaving sustainable practices into every facet of its operation. The hotel leverages renewable energy, harnessing solar radiation and geothermal energy to provide for its energy needs. The structure of the hotel has been thoughtfully designed to maximize natural light and air flow, reducing reliance on artificial heating, lighting, and air conditioning. Triple-glazed windows contribute to the energy efficiency, effectively blocking heat and cold. A commitment to sustainability is exhibited in their choice of building materials, all derived from sustainable resources, as well as a green roof that contributes to insulation and rainwater absorption.

The hotel’s dedication to environmental preservation extends to water management, waste management, and energy conservation. Rainwater is collected and used throughout the property, while the wastewater is responsibly treated and reused. The toilets are designed to flush using only up to six litres per flush. Waste separation is diligently performed into at least three categories, and all organic waste is composted. The property has installed LED lighting and employs an automatic system that turns off lights and electrical appliances when guests leave their rooms. Guests are encouraged to participate in energy conservation through signs informing them that towels will only be changed upon request. Furthermore, the on-site restaurant provides an exceptional dining experience with organic food sourced primarily from local producers, also offering a vegetarian menu. To ensure continual improvement, the hotel performs an energy audit every five years, reaffirming its commitment to eco-friendly operations.

Hotel Gasthof Adler incorporates sustainable practices by reducing waste and focusing on energy conservation. It provides an authentic and eco-conscious experience for guests.

Hotel Der Löwe LEBE FREI showcases the harmonious blending of luxury and sustainability, exemplifying how establishments can thrive while respecting nature. They have taken a firm stance to uphold numerous stringent criteria, having received both Austrian and European Ecolabels as a testament to their determined efforts towards the environment. This commitment extends to the people who form the backbone of the hotel, fostering a community that collectively assumes environmental and social responsibility. The hotel is proud to be recognized as a "Klimabündnis-Betrieb" ("climate alliance business"), reinforcing its commitment to corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and environmental protection.

This eco-conscious hotel has implemented a plethora of green measures. Thermal energy is sourced from local district heating, supplemented by a 17 kW photovoltaic roof, primarily utilizing green energy. A continually expanding range of organic and regional products is offered, and e-mobility is promoted through a charging infrastructure for guests and their own e-car. Efforts have been made to reduce energy and water consumption through efficient building construction, saving 90 tons of CO2 annually. A transition to eco-certified detergents has been made, and high-quality, timeless, and regional materials are used throughout the property. Freight has been reduced by expanding local and regional purchases. They've adopted the best possible practices for waste prevention, reduction, and separation, and even their printed materials conform to established certified proof of origin such as PEFC or SFC. The hotel also values its employees, fostering a positive company climate that has kept some team members for over 20 years, highlighting the hotel's commitment to both the environment and its people.

Ortners Eschenhof - Alpine Slowness is an environmentally-conscious retreat that embodies the principles of sustainability at every level. The hotel boasts certifications from Ecolabel or Eco Flower (EU) and the Austrian Environmental Seal, reflecting its dedication to green practices. Harnessing solar radiation as a renewable energy source, the hotel highlights its commitment to sustainable resource usage. In keeping with the eco-friendly ethos, the building materials used are sourced sustainably. The hotel promotes transparency in its green commitments through its written environmental policy statement.

The hotel features LED lighting across the premises and utilizes non-toxic cleaning products, demonstrating a consistent eco-friendly approach. Additionally, employees are trained to adhere to environmental policies, promoting an eco-conscious culture. Amenities such as bicycles are offered to guests to encourage low-impact transportation, and electric car charging stations are available. Eco-friendly initiatives also extend to the restaurant, where locally sourced organic food is served, including a vegetarian menu. Steps to curb waste generation are noticeable in the hotel's waste management strategy, which includes dividing waste into a minimum of three categories and doing away with single-use products. Furthermore, the hotel's commitment to constant enhancement in sustainability is manifested through energy audits performed every half-decade.