Ensure all departments have documented procedures for the new system. This guide includes an example Reusable Procedures Template you can use for this purpose.

Front-of-house staff should be prepared for questions from guests about your reusable switches. Provide staff with simple responses for common guest questions or concerns. This guide includes a Frequently Asked Questions download that you might like to use.

Staff can also reference in-room signage and digital check-in messages. Find examples of these in the Guest Communications and External Promotion section of this guide.

Everyone’s role will change differently when reusables are introduced. Housekeeping, food and beverage, front-of-house, and maintenance will each require targeted training catered to their roles.

To ensure everyone receives the necessary training, develop a training plan. A template Staff Training Plan has been provided in this section of the guide.

Raise awareness amongst staff about why you are introducing reusables.

Change can be challenging. It’s crucial to have staff on board for the journey.

Firstly, run an information session with staff about why the hotel is eliminating single-use plastics. You may like to discuss the environmental and health issues associated with plastic waste, the cost savings of going plastic free, and guest expectations; you may even like to share a little about your hotel’s current plastic footprint. The Plastic-free Facts download included in this guide may help you with this.

Staff training presents a great opportunity to reiterate your organisation’s dedication to sustainability.

Share which items are being removed and outline what’s replacing them. Make sure to take staff feedback onboard to ensure the replacement process runs smoothly, and logistical or procedural issues are identified early on.

To make these sessions relatable, use case studies, visuals, and examples of guest feedback.

Demonstrate to housekeeping, food and beverage, and maintenance staff the proper handling, cleaning, refilling, and storage of new reusable items. This may require more time and effort on behalf of staff, so be sure to let them know of any extensions to room cleaning times or additional benefits you are introducing in return.

Front-of-house staff should be given the opportunity to role-play guest interactions; for example, explaining why single-use toiletries aren’t available or directing guests to water refill stations.

When new staff arrive, it is a good idea to pair them with an experienced staff member for support; there’s a chance that your plastic-free procedures are slightly different from their previous role.

Schedule monthly check-ins or short training updates, particularly just after you’ve launched your reusable switches. During this time, encourage staff to report challenges and suggest improvements.

Make sure you celebrate your wins! Share success stories, guest compliments, and milestones with all your staff. You may even decide to hold a team party, to show your appreciation.