The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Making Your Holiday Rental Eco-Friendly (and More Bookable)

In 2025, sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s what guests expect. According to Booking.com’s 2025 Sustainability Report, 93% of travelers want to make more sustainable travel choices, and 53% are more conscious than ever about tourism’s impact on local communities and the environment.

If you’re an Airbnb host or manage vacation rentals, going green isn’t just good for the planet—it’s a proven way to boost bookings, earn rave reviews, and increase your bottom line.

1. Quick Win Upgrades for Immediate Impact

Switch to LED Bulbs
LED lighting uses at least 75% less energy and lasts up to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs. See Energy.gov’s guide to energy-efficient lighting for more.

Install Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats like Google Nest or Tado help reduce energy waste automatically.

Choose Renewable Energy Providers
If solar panels aren’t feasible, opt for a green energy tariff from your local utility. For more, see Booking.com’s sustainability initiatives.

2. Water-Saving Solutions Guests Will Love

Low-Flow Showerheads & Faucet Aerators
These fixtures are easy to install and save significant water. Treehugger’s best low-flow showerheads is a good resource.

Dual Flush Toilets
When upgrading, choose dual-flush toilets for water savings.

Friendly Signage
Add a note near the shower or sink to let guests know how much water they’re saving.

3. Eco Amenities That Delight and Impress

Compostable Cleaning Supplies
Try compostable sponges from Composty. Used by 100s of short-term rentals and advocated for by Justine Ireland of Just for You Holiday Homes winner of the Shortyz 2025 Sustainability award.

Refillable Toiletry Dispensers
Switch from single-use plastics to refillable dispensers. Eco Amenities offers options.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Kits
Stock up on biodegradable bin liners and natural cleaning sprays.

4. Make Recycling and Composting Effortless

• Provide clearly labeled recycling and compost bins. Recyclingbins.co.uk has options.

• Include a local waste guide in your welcome book.

• Use compostable liners for your compost bin.

5. Stock Smart, Stock Local

Welcome Hampers with Local Produce
Support local businesses and delight guests with organic jams, fresh bread, or eco-friendly chocolate.

Sustainable Furnishings
Choose furniture made from bamboo, reclaimed wood, or rattan.

Eco Touches That Wow
Locally made soy candles, handmade mugs, or regional artwork show guests you care.

6. Help Guests Travel Greener

• Offer info on bike hire, electric scooter rental, or walking routes.

• Provide reusable shopping bags.

• Highlight public transport options in your digital guidebook.

• If possible, install an EV charging point.

7. Communicate Your Sustainability Efforts

Create a Sustainability Welcome Book
Include a section in your guidebook or house manual covering:

• Your green initiatives

• How guests can help during their stay

• Local sustainable experiences

8. Go Digital for Efficiency

• Use digital guidebooks like TouchStay or Hostfully to reduce paper waste.

• Install smart locks to cut down on key replacements.

• Automate messaging for efficiency.

9. Track and Share Your Impact

Use a simple spreadsheet or a free tool like Capture to track your energy savings, waste reduction, and CO2 offset. Share your achievements in your listings and marketing.

10. The Essential Eco-Friendly Vacation Rental Checklist

 Switch to LED lighting

 Install a smart thermostat

 Use a green energy provider

 Install low-flow showerheads

 Add compostable Composty sponges

 Provide refillable toiletry dispensers

 Set up recycling and compost bins

 Create a sustainability welcome section

 Offer info on eco-transport

 Promote your eco-friendly touches in listings

Why Sustainability Means More Bookings in 2025

• Attract more bookings from eco-conscious travelers

• Earn higher review scores for thoughtful amenities

• Gain eligibility for green awards, press coverage, and specialty directories

Sustainable hosting isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smart business move for 2025 and beyond.

Ready to make your vacation rental greener, more profitable, and future-proof? Start with one upgrade today—whether it’s compostable cleaning gear, a smart thermostat, or an eco-friendly welcome guide. Your guests (and the planet) will thank you.

Explore Composty’s full eco range for hosts committed to sustainability at www.composty.earth

Better for your guests. Better for the planet. Better than plastic.