we travel on Airbnb often I think we had like 40 rentals thi...
we travel on Airbnb often I think we had like 40 rentals this year. We have nothing but positive reviews and yet we are unabl...
Our journey towards the sustainability of our Airbnb Beach Cottage was from the start in 2019. Our goal has been to create an eco-friendly environment where our guests can enjoy a sustainable holiday.
A pivotal step we undertook was to involve a like-minded architect to implement our ideas and use recycled and eco-friendly materials and insulation. As we were owner builders, most of the construction was by us, However, we used a friend who was a licensed builder, electrician, and plumber for legality.
Other key aspects that we considered making our Airbnb more sustainable were;
Energy
- Solar panels installed.
- Backup battery installed is mainly used at night and on overcast or wet days.
- Energy-efficient appliances were installed with high star ratings, e.g. refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, air conditioners and microwave to reduce the consumption of electrical energy.
- Led Light Bulbs installed for less energy usage and they emit less heat.
- Sensor lights outside doors and pathways reduce energy costs. Solar lights provide extra lighting in the garden and are free.
- Instantaneous hot water system electricity is used only when turned on.
Water
- Rainwater tanks installed.
- Dual flush toilet.
- Low-flow showerhead.
- Garden irrigation using rainwater from tanks.
Recycling
- Upcycled furniture for cottage.
- Recycling bins for plastic bottles, glass and paper.
- Bottle return system is used and money is returned to our Airbnb expenses.
- All recycling goes to the local council waste depot to reduce landfill.
Composting
- Kitchen food waste bins are provided.
- A worm farm is used for the compost and the castings and liquid is used to fertilize the garden. And explained to guests.
- Leaves and lawn grass clippings are composted.
Buying in bulk
- Reduce household waste packaging, eg. Plastics
- Money is saved on bulk products.
Refillable
- Cleaning and personal care products bought in or larger bottles.
- Dispense personal care products into smaller sizes.
- Snacks and cereals bought in large packets and dispensed into smaller serves for guest hampers.
Linen
- Cotton bedding and towels can be recycled and composted..
- Durable warm cotton blankets.
- Easy maintenance through washing, drying and ironing.
Furnishings
- Upcycling cuts Airbnb costs.
- Hand sewing soft furnishing adds colour to dรฉcor and reduces expenses, e.g. cushions and lampshades.
- Insulated curtains with blackout material improve insulation.
- Eco friendly furniture for minimal environmental impact.
- Using natural fibre materials like cotton and linen for fewer chemicals and allergens in production.
Garden
- The garden was designed by using excess soil from the building site.
- Garden beds material was recycled natural timber.
- Shrubs and plants' initial stock were small stock and have increased in size.
- Plant cuttings were from friends, neighbours and from my own stock.
- Chosen plants were to soften the fence line, reduce heat and noise.
- Planting fruit trees' main aim was to attract birds and bees for the nectar, sweet fragrance and edible fruit.
- Plants watered from collected rainwater.
- Recycled window boxes made with self-watering inserts water efficiency and aesthetics viewed inside and out.
- Indoor potted plants help purify the air, enhance dรฉcor and can improve oneโs wellbeing.
Transportation
- Our Guests are given directions and encouraged that it is a short walk to the beach and restaurants and easy foreshore footpath access.
- We provide information on local bike and kayak rental services.
- As local transport is limited, taxi and free shuttle bus information is supplied.
Local Supplies
- We buy local Airbnb supplies: cleaning products, kitchen gear and more, including food for breakfast hampers.
- Guests recycle shopping bags.
- We cut emissions and cost by sourcing locally and minimising travel distances.
As Airbnb Hosts, we have tried to embody sustainability in both our personal lifestyle and offer to our guests. We try to provide a tranquil retreat that not only offers comfort and relaxation, also minimise our environmental impact and contributes to a more sustainable future. By using eco-friendly practices, reducing waste, and supporting local suppliers, we try to create a space where our guests can enjoy while also fostering a sense of responsibility towards our planet Earth.
