Our most-read business stories of 2023 show that hotels are more frequently turning to eco-conscious design approaches, while others are establishing stronger connections to nature. Such conscious considerations are not only being examined through the lens of environmental health, but also human health, as a recent study underscores the deadly cost of quartz.
With quartz linked to silicosis, manufacturers seek alternatives
Over the past few decades, quartz has become an inexpensive, durable alternative to granite and marble. Its high-end look sans the high price tag, and availability in a wide selection of colors, has made it a popular choice for construction across industries. However, a growing amount of evidence points to a hidden—and deadly—cost of this cheaper engineered stone. A recent study on countertop workers shows a link between the chronic exposure to crystalline silica, the dust from grinding up quartz, and silicosis, a fatal lung disease. Read the full story.
The biggest trends driving the hospitality industry
Iceland’s Highland Base offers a nature-forward experience
The hospitality industry has continued to demonstrate its resiliency despite global challenges, with new trends emerging in 2023 that indicated an upward trajectory. Noteworthy among these trends is the rise in nature-centric hospitality experiences, ultra luxury cruise offerings, and mixed concept stays. We also saw the growing popularity of branded residences, with Accor, for example, reporting a 170 percent increase in global supply since 2010. Read the full story.
The hospitality industry makes strides in sustainability
Solar panels frame Hotel Marcel in New Haven, Connecticut
As evidenced in our top 2023 trends, the hospitality industry is increasingly shifting focus to sustainability. The emergence of carbon-positive hotels, such as Urban Villages’ Populus, showcases a commitment to exceeding net-zero standards, while leading hotel groups like Marriott, Hilton, and Accor have raised their environmental guidelines and formalized plans to reach net zero by 2050. “We can build and operate the greenest hotel ever created, and it’s not going to have that big of an impact on the world,” says Jon Buerge, president of Urban Villages. “But if it inspires others to do similar work, that’s where we can have a big impact.” Read the full story.
