The Wellness & Sustainability Panel on the 2024 Cayuga Annual Conference explored the intersection of wellness and sustainability in the hospitality industry. Moderated by Susan Barry, the panel introduced collectively specialists Holleigh Alexander-Ramsey of Spalign Concepts, Candace Lynch of Zents, and Corey Clark of Honeycomb Strategies to share their experiences and actionable insights.
Are Wellness and Sustainability Companions or Opponents?
The panelists agreed that wellness and sustainability are deeply interconnected, although they will generally battle. Candace emphasised that whereas wellness typically includes natural, biodynamic substances and clear merchandise, the assets utilized in sourcing and packaging may be at odds with sustainability targets. As an example, she highlighted the problem of balancing luxurious, purposeful packaging with eco-friendly supplies.
Corey identified that storytelling performs a significant function in harmonizing these efforts. In occasions, sustainability initiatives typically require signage or instruments to speak their affect, guaranteeing attendees acknowledge the efforts being made. Nevertheless, the manufacturing of those communication supplies should additionally align with sustainable practices.
Holleigh added that in spas, single-use gadgets like plastics current a major hurdle. Options comparable to reusable containers and pre-portioned merchandise can mitigate waste whereas preserving the visitor expertise.
Improvements Driving Change
The panel showcased modern practices throughout wellness and sustainability. Corey highlighted using compost haulers in occasion areas to divert meals waste, educating attendees and decreasing environmental affect. In a single instance, a San Diego convention middle launched meals donation practices for the primary time, creating an enduring cultural shift amongst workers.
Holleigh mentioned advances in spa expertise, comparable to robotic therapeutic massage methods and mindfulness pods, which cut back reliance on employees whereas offering friends with distinctive wellness experiences. She additionally famous the rising recognition of psychological well being and sleep-focused remedies.
Candace shared her expertise creating Zents’ Antara assortment, a hemp-based luxurious spa line that comes with domestically sourced substances and sustainable packaging. The gathering’s merchandise are designed to supply wellness advantages like ache reduction and stress discount whereas minimizing environmental affect.
Sensible Ideas for the Trade
When requested for actionable recommendation, the panelists shared these key takeaways:
– Begin The place You Are: Candace inspired companies to start with small, impactful steps towards sustainability, comparable to utilizing bulk refillable merchandise or eliminating single-use plastics.
– Ask Questions and Educate: Corey recommended participating suppliers and exploring case research to determine sustainable options tailor-made to particular person properties or occasions.
– Unplug for Wellness: Holleigh confused the significance of making boundaries and prioritizing self-care, encouraging each hospitality professionals and friends to seek out moments of peace amid busy schedules.
Tendencies to Watch
As demand for wellness and sustainability grows, the panelists highlighted a number of rising developments. From integrating spa and health operations beneath a single wellness umbrella to providing technology-driven remedies like hyperbaric chambers and cryotherapy, the hospitality business is evolving to satisfy visitor expectations.
Corey additionally famous that occasion shoppers more and more demand eco-conscious venues, with some requiring carbon footprint knowledge earlier than confirming attendance. This shift underscores the rising significance of sustainability credentials in attracting enterprise.
The panel concluded with a unifying message: By embracing innovation, educating stakeholders, and beginning with manageable steps, the business can ship significant experiences that profit each friends and the planet.