Asia-based Swiss-Belhotel International is removing all plastic straws from its five properties across New Zealand and Australia.
Australasia is the first region in the group to introduce the plastic ban, with all the group’s 145 hotels expected to implement the same strategy as soon as possible.
The company has also been assessing all its single-use plastic suppliers to ensure it is doing its bit to reduce plastic usage.
All single-use plastic used at Swiss-Belhotel New Zealand and Australia will be replaced with eco-friendly options, including glass or biodegradable alternatives.
Room amenities will feature biodegradable rubbish and sanitary bags, while bathroom amenities, including shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion and shower caps, will be replaced with biodegradable packaging alternatives. Combs will be switched to sustainable wood options.
Chairman and president Gavin Faull said: “With plastic use becoming an increasing problem throughout the world, this is a small step in the right direction.
“The hospitality and travel industries are large contributors to plastic waste and it’s now more important than ever to implement change and fix the problem for future generations.”