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As you travel the world and live new experiences, learn new things and see new places, your impact on the planet is not something you should brush under the rug and pretend does not matter. 

There are several ways you can contribute to a better planet by making seemingly effortless decisions. For example, choosing to carry reusable things, supporting local businesses, and taking trains instead of planes are ways you can be more sustainable as you travel. But have you ever thought your choice of accommodation could make for a better planet?

In many ways, hostels are a more environmentally responsible and sustainable lodging choice than conventional hotels. If you are backpacking through London or visiting the city, read on to find out why your trip will be more environmentally-friendly if you stay at a hostel.

Hostels produce 75% less carbon emissions than hotels

According to a recent report by a reputable sustainability compliance specialist, Bureau Veritas and hostelworld, hostels emit three-quarters less carbon (tCO2e) than hotels (download the full report here). So not only are hostels a way to connect with people from around the world and share unique experiences, but they also represent a more sustainable accommodation choice regarding greenhouse gas emissions. 

Hostels are a greener alternative to hotels. According to a report titled “Understanding the Carbon Impact of Hostels Vs Hotels”, carbon emissions per bed in hotels average 1.18 tCO2e compared to 0.30 tCO2e in a hostel.

Shared facilities mean less energy and water consumption

There are many reasons to opt for a hostel room aside from its reasonable price. Sharing a hostel room with others means you contribute to creating a better planet by consuming less energy than you would in a private hotel room. Rather than switching the lights for one person in the morning, you are switching them on for ten people. Rather than turning on ten bulbs in 10 different rooms, you are turning on just one.

Staying in a hostel in London means consuming far less water per person. Hotels use roughly 1-15 gallons more water per occupant than a hostel. In addition, hostels hardly ever have individual baths, and guests are often advised to take only a short time in shared facilities. You might find the timer on the showers a bit annoying, but all of this is for a genuine cause: to save water and raise awareness of how impactful shorter showers can be.

Bottom line

We are on the verge of a climate emergency; choosing to stay at a hostel rather than a hotel significantly contributes to a better, cleaner, and more sustainable world. So if you are ever on or planning a trip to London, choose to stay at Astor Hostel London. Here you can live comfortably, meet new people, and enjoy incredible experiences, all while making eco-friendly choices that will make the world a better place. It is indeed a traveller’s dream! 

Reducing your carbon footprint is a testament to your commitment to helping build a better world. It is time to act!