Housekeeping and laundry operations must evolve with the times. Innovations hold key, writes Ram Chena, Director of Housekeeping, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas, Abu Dhabi.
Sustainability is deeply embedded in my leadership approach and daily decision-making within housekeeping and laundry operations. I believe that responsible luxury is achieved by balancing exceptional guest experiences with meaningful environmental stewardship, and my team have consistently championed initiatives that deliver both operational efficiency and measurable ecological impact.
I have led the transition to plastic-free and biodegradable guest amenities, achieving a significant reduction in single-use plastics while also realizing cost savings through sustainable dispensing solutions.
In collaboration with engineering and key suppliers, I implemented water- and energy-efficient technologies, including upgraded Guest Room Management System (GRMS systems), ionic shower filters, IntelliLinen chemical dosing, and laundry water recovery tanks—resulting in substantial reductions in water consumption, energy usage, and carbon emissions.
Here are the latest trends in housekeeping, sustainability, eco-friendly approached and recycling:
- Steam cleaning technology across public areas, guestroom, and recreational areas to significantly reduce the reliance on conventional chemicals.
- Lithium battery-operated ride on scrubber to effectively maintain the extensive indoor and outdoor areas of the resort. Significant reduction in chemical usages through water-based cleaning technology and optimizing water consumption with controlled dispensing and recovery systems.
- 75% of our total cleaning/dishwashing chemicals have been replaced with Green Guard, Eco Logo, and Green Seal Certified products. Utilizing these environmentally friendly alternatives not only enhances indoor air quality but also reduces waste, fostering a healthier living and working environment.
- Waste management system by introducing 120-litre bins in the basement recycling area, color-coded in red, blue, and yellow for the segregation of plastic, glass, paper, aluminum, and can.
- Mobile-friendly applications for real-time reporting and tracking maintenance and working order issues. A paperless reporting system.
- Chemical free window cleaning system-IPC’s pure water system to clean high level windows & façade, which uses reverse osmosis and de-ionization to produce mineral-free water for streak-free windows.
My goal is to create housekeeping operations that are environmentally responsible, financially sustainable, and align with the values of future-focused hospitality leadership.