In a time when sustainability has become a buzzword in the hospitality industry, circularity often still feels out of reach. Can a hotel truly operate with minimal waste, close resource loops, and offer a luxury experience — all at once?
Yes, it can. And it's already happening.
While many hotels are experimenting with greener solutions, some pioneers are going all in — showing that circular design isn’t just theory; it’s a competitive advantage. One inspiring example is Hotel Jakarta Amsterdam, a flagship of circular hospitality that’s proving what’s possible when sustainability is integrated from the ground up.
Circular Design Meets Five-Star Comfort
Hotel Jakarta, located on Java Island in Amsterdam, isn’t your typical eco-hotel. With its bamboo architecture, indoor tropical garden, energy-neutral systems, and sustainable product partnerships, it demonstrates that circularity can align perfectly with luxury and guest experience.
Some of the standout circular features include:
- Energy-neutral operations through smart systems and passive design
- In-room slippers made from circular materials by PRIMAL®
- Locally grown herbs from their indoor greenhouse, served fresh
- Refillable water bottles and taps in collaboration with Join the Pipe
- Upcycled food ingredients via InstockMarket (a certified B Corp)
What’s unique is how the hotel doesn't just reduce harm — it actively regenerates value. Waste is seen as a resource. Materials are selected with end-of-life in mind. Every partner and process is chosen to reduce environmental impact, support local circular businesses, and inspire systemic change.
Circularity in Hospitality Is Not Just Possible — It’s Profitable
The success of Hotel Jakarta isn’t an isolated case. It’s a signal to the broader hospitality sector: circularity works — when it’s designed holistically and strategically.
Hotels around the world are beginning to recognize the business case:
- Lower operational costs through energy savings and waste reduction
- Enhanced brand value as guests prioritize purpose-driven travel
- Resilience against rising resource costs and environmental regulations
- Stronger partnerships with circular product and service providers
From large resorts to boutique stays, there’s a growing movement to rethink hospitality systems — not as linear chains of consumption and disposal, but as circular ecosystems that regenerate and reuse.
Start Small or Think Big — The Future Is Circular
You don’t need to be Hotel Jakarta to begin your circular journey. Whether you're managing a coastal resort, a city hotel, or a chain of hostels, there are actionable steps you can take today:
- Switch to refillable toiletries and water solutions
- Partner with circular food suppliers or waste innovators
- Incorporate sustainable materials in renovations
- Offer circular amenities like reusable slippers or in-room compost bins
- Use impact and ROI tools to track and communicate your circular gains
Circularity isn't just good for the planet — it’s good for business. And we’re here to help you get started.
Ready to Make Circular Hospitality a Reality?
If you’re inspired by examples like Hotel Jakarta and want to explore how circular strategies can benefit your hotel, restaurant, or resort — let’s talk.
👉 Book a call here or check out our contact options to connect with our team. We’ll help you find the right circular solutions — from waste innovations to high-impact product swaps.
Let’s turn inspiration into action.