“Product life extension” is a concept developed as one of the multifaceted solutions to create a circular economy. The basic concept describes how long a product or item can be used for, with the ultimate goal of maximizing any given product’s “utilization” rate and duration. Every time we throw away a product, we essentially also are losing all the energy and resources that went into its production. Although recycling a product is sometimes an option, reuse, and repair rank much higher than recycling in terms of stronger environmental impact.
How can we transform our tourism sector into a circular tourism sector?
The potential for circularity in the tourism sector depends on the strategy and infrastructure of the destination. In addition, hospitality providers and tourists must be willing to cooperate with the main objectives of a circular transition. This means that integration, communication and engagement are key elements of the circular transition in this sector.
Circular design models: the sustainable design of tourist facilities and activities plays an important role in the transition towards a circular tourism system. Hospitality providers can improve their services by using new sustainable technologies. For instance, the construction of establishments can become more circular by implementing solar-, wind- or ground water-powered heating or power generation. Furthermore, the use of single-use disposable items can be reduced by offering more sustainable reusable alternatives. A survey amongst hotel guests has shown the implementation of green programs, such as textile towels instead of disposable paper wipes, does not diminish guest satisfaction
Use and life extension models: the extension of use-intensity can be implemented in the tourism sector by prioritizing a collaborative consumption model. Such a model is based on sharing or leasing products and space. An example of a hugely popular and profitable sharing service is Airbnb external link icon, which provides a sharing platform for accommodation. Temporarily vacated apartments and houses can be used to their maximum potential. An emerging negative aspect of Airbnb is that landlords and real estate investors are now subletting apartments and even entire building blocks for the sole purpose of accommodating the tourism sector. This development is driving up housing prices and making it more difficult for local inhabitants to buy a home. To counter these negative consequences, alternatives have been developed. An example is FairBnb external link icon, an initiative that aims for authentic, fair, and conscious tourism. Another example of a sharing-based service is Peerby external link icon, an online platform that matches people in temporary need of a specific object with people willing to lend it. Such a service can help provide additional amenities for tourists who want to travel light. Reuse can also be encouraged in a very simple way, for example through hotels that reduce the number of times towels are changed.
Value recovery models: in order to drive the tourism sector towards zero waste, the hospitality providers must strive for increased recycling and recovery of products, materials, and food. Food waste can be reduced by donating left-overs for free or for a small price. Online platforms such as Too Good To Go external link icon can transform the food waste of restaurants or hotels into meals for interested consumers. Lastly, proper value recovery in the tourism sector depends on access to the cities’ infrastructure and collaboration with the waste management and material recycling sector. Engagement of tourists can help in efficient recovery and recycling of materials making open communication between the hospitality provider and the guests crucial.
Methods, technologies, good practices, case studies used in the implementation
Local supply chains and added value
Tourism creates economic opportunities by providing products and services. The more the tourism industry is supplied locally, the more it will stimulate economic growth and increase opportunities for new businesses. Locally and sustainably sourced food contributes to the economic resilience of communities, reduces environmental impacts and can help create an authentic experience of place and culture for visitors. Food in all its manifestations is therefore a potentially powerful element of destination branding.
