From plastic-free to solar-powered: Vietnam’s hotels go green

However, most of these efforts in greening hotels remain largely voluntary, relying on guest awareness and cooperation rather than being driven by enforceable policies or incentive systems.

At Royal Hotel Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City, general manager Vu Thi Thanh Hien shared that for years, the hotel has displayed notices in guest rooms encouraging electricity and water conservation, as well as minimizing the change of towels and bedcovers unless necessary.

“Most international guests support the initiative, but the response from domestic customers has been more limited,” she noted.

In pursuit of sustainable development goals, the hotel prioritizes products made from natural or recyclable materials and integrates more greenery into its spaces.

Hotel Majestic Saigon, based in Ho Chi Minh City, with nearly 90 percent of its guests being international, primarily from Japan and South Korea, has replaced all traditional bulbs with energy-efficient lighting, said a representative.

Besides, the hotel encourages guests to maintain room temperatures between 24–25 degrees Celsius.

"We use solar-powered water heating systems for guest rooms, kitchens, and laundry services.

“Towels are replaced only when left on the floor or in the tub. All shower gel dispensers are eco-friendly," said the hotel representative.

In Hoi An City under Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam, Namia River Retreat has completely eliminated single-use plastics.

Plastic key cards have been swapped for wooden alternatives, and guests are provided with bottled water in reusable glass containers.

Refill stations are placed around the hotel, making it easy for guests to refill their bottles, and reinforcing a message of environmental responsibility.

Food waste is composted and used as fertilizer in the garden.

Hotel Grand Saigon, a recipient of Ho Chi Minh City’s Green Business certification, also encourages guests to save water and limit the frequency of linen changes.

Instead of printed materials, information is delivered via screens, reducing paper waste.

Many hotel operators agreed that green practices are becoming an industry standard.

Both travel firms and travelers are increasingly mindful of environmental impact.