Eco-responsible host: how to reduce your bills (and your footprint) thanks to digital technology

Ecology: the new standard in vacation rentals

Long considered optional, eco-responsibility has become a criterion of choice for a large proportion of travelers. But for hosts, the stakes are twofold: they have to protect the planet while safeguarding their profitability in the face of rising energy costs.

The problem? You can't stand behind every guest and turn off the lights or turn down the heating. This is where your digital welcome booklet comes in as an eco-gesture coach, transforming constraints into a charter of shared values.

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1. Nudging: the art of encouraging without constraining

Nudging is a psychological technique that involves gently encouraging people to adopt virtuous behavior.

• Instead of giving orders, explain the impact. "By turning off the air conditioning when you go out, you're helping us keep rates affordable while protecting our beautiful region."
• Effectiveness: As we saw in our article on respecting the rules, travelers are much more cooperative when they understand the meaning of the approach.

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2. Control energy-guzzling equipment

Air conditioning and heating often account for 60% of your expenses.

• Create a Video Block to show you how to set the thermostat to the ideal temperature (19°C in winter, 24°C in summer). Incorrect operation often leads to over-consumption through ignorance.
• Common sense tips:** Remind us to close the windows when the heating is on. A visual reminder in the booklet is more effective than an unsightly sticker on the window.

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3. Selective sorting: simplifying local complexity

Sorting rules change from city to city, often discouraging international travelers.

• Visual sorting guide:** Use photos of your own garbage cans with colored arrows.
• Location: Indicate exactly where nearby glass or compost containers are located in your neighborhood guide. If it's simple, it's done.

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4. Promote local and responsible tourism

Being an eco-responsible host also means encouraging a local economy.

• Soft mobility:** Highlight self-service bike stations, bus stops or walking routes.
• Local consumption:** Recommend farmers' markets or bulk stores. These Wow Effect recommendations are very popular with today's clientele.

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5. A digital booklet for zero paper waste

The very choice of WonderGuest is an ecological gesture.

• Zero Paper: By doing away with the paper welcome booklet that has to be reprinted every time it's updated (as explained in our paper vs digital comparison), you reduce your own carbon footprint and supply costs.
• Brand image:** Proudly display your "Zero Paper" approach right from the welcome message to establish a climate of mutual respect.

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Conclusion: Ecology at the service of profitability

Eco-responsibility in short-term rental is not a punishment, it's an optimization. By guiding your travelers towards more eco-friendly behavior through fluid digital communication, you reduce your operating costs while improving your brand image.