Nestled within 12 acres of lush greenery in bustling Santacruz, the Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel & Residences stands as an urban oasis, offering a luxurious escape. Beyond its sophisticated rooms, delectable dining and world-class amenities, this hotel is making significant strides in sustainability, thanks in large part to the dedication of its housekeeping team, led by the innovative Minar Aliyar
“Protecting the environment is now imperative, not only for the organization but also to educate guests that we are driving towards sustainable options.”
Minar Aliyar
Since joining the property in 2023, Minar has been instrumental in implementing a suite of sustainable initiatives, transforming the hotel’s housekeeping practices. “Protecting the environment is now imperative,” he emphasizes, “not only for the organization but also to educate guests that we are driving towards sustainable options.”
Holistic Approach
Here are some key initiatives adopted across various facets of housekeeping:
Seko System in Laundry:
• In collaboration with Ecolab, the hotel has implemented the Seko system, optimizing water and chemical usage in laundry operations. This system provides detailed analytics, allowing for precise control and reduction of waste.
Local and Sustainable Purchasing:
• The hotel prioritizes local purchasing and partners with suppliers like Welspun, who provide linens with OEKO-TEX certification, incorporating recycled PET plastic bottles into fabric fibers.
Bulk Amenities and Elimination of Single-Use Plastics:
• Grand Hyatt is transitioning to bulk amenities with cosmetics, eliminating single-use plastic tubes and soaps
• Dry amenities like dental and shaving kits are now made from sustainable materials like bamboo and corn starch. Even the slippers’ packaging has transitioned from plastic to recycled paper
• Following a minimalistic approach that adheres to brand standards, only essential amenities are placed in guest rooms, with additional items available upon request.
Glass Water Bottles:
• The hotel has replaced plastic water bottles with glass bottles; thus encouraging everyone to choose sustainable options.
Waste Segregation:
• Room attendant trolleys no longer use traditional garbage bags. Instead, staff segregate waste into designated containers for plastic, paper and food waste in the service areas, which is further processed in the main garbage room.
Nespresso Coffee Machines:
• The hotel has introduced Nespresso coffee machines in guest rooms, using recycled aluminum capsules to minimize the carbon footprint.
Paper Reduction:
• The removal of excessive paper items such as newspapers, magazines, notices, collaterals, and brochures — a good example being the paper hotel directories — has been addressed by introducing QR codes.
Guest Response and Education
The response from international travellers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. “In fact, they are more pro-sustainable than others.” While some initially requested plastic bottles, the hotel encourages the use of glass bottles through education.
Elaborating on the importance of raising awareness in both guests and staff, he says, “Training is the key for everyone. The hotel has even hired a dedicated departmental trainer to ensure all housekeeping staff receive comprehensive training on sustainable practices.”
Challenges and Innovations
Implementing these changes has not been without its challenges. Minar highlights the need to shift mindsets, both among staff and guests.
“The adaptability of both the team to accept this and put it into the system, and for us to also educate the guest, was a bit of a challenge.” However, innovative solutions, such as providing business welcome cards for room attendants, have not only improved guest satisfaction but also recognized the often-overlooked contributions of the housekeeping team.
Automation and Recognition
“We are also exploring the integration of technology, such as utilizing cleaning robots in public areas.” Automation can enhance efficiency and allow staff to focus on providing exceptional service.
Moreover, recognizing housekeeping staff is crucial. “These invisible heroes, who create a big impact on your stay at any hotel, whether it is a three-star, four-star, luxury, or other category, are eventually the housekeepers!”
Five Tips for Housekeepers:
1. Stay Updated: Embrace technology and adapt to current trends.
2. Understand Your Team: Foster a positive and supportive work environment.
3. Be Creative: Challenge existing processes and seek innovative solutions.
4. Be Guest-Oriented: Prioritize guest feedback and act promptly.
5. Establish Connections: Create a balanced relationship between management, hotel operators, staff and ownership.
Minar Aliyar and his dedicated team’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is transforming the Grand Hyatt Mumbai, setting a new benchmark for eco-conscious hospitality.
