1. Facility Overview
Located in the heart of Shinsaibashi, Osaka, "HOTEL THE FLAG Shinsaibashi" is a select-service hotel featuring a total of 162 guest rooms. A defining characteristic of the property is its exceptionally high inbound ratio, with Western travelers making up approximately 70% of the guests, while domestic travelers account for less than 1%. Following its reopening in 2022, all departments have been working closely together to accelerate sustainable operations that meet the needs of environmentally conscious international guests.
2. Good Practice
The hotel deploys highly effective reduction measures that align guest values with hotel operations.
"Complete Elimination of Plastic Bottles" via Reusable Bottles: The hotel discontinued the provision of plastic water bottles in guest rooms, transitioning to a system of installing water dispensers and renting out reusable bottles. Aided by the high tendency of Western guests to bring their own personal bottles, the initiative was highly praised in reviews after its introduction, with comments calling it a "wonderful initiative." All departments—Housekeeping, Restaurant (washing), and Front Desk (rental)—work in unison to establish a smooth circular cycle.
Alternative Equipment Selection Driven by Frontline "Waste Prevention" Awareness: The hotel abolished single-use plastic umbrella bags on rainy days and introduced a device that shakes off water droplets instead. Furthermore, to reduce the massive amount of paper memos generated during daily operations, electronic memo pads were introduced. Both are grounded, practical initiatives born from staff members noticing that "it is a waste to throw things away after just a single use."
3. Challenges
Because all staff members are directly hired employees and part-timers, internal communication and coordination run extremely smoothly. However, areas involving external suppliers stand as the next hurdle.
Approaching Outsourced Sectors: When it comes to coordination with external contractors that cannot be completed entirely within the company—such as the selection of detergents used by the linen supply company—determining how to achieve the higher standards of Green Key remains a challenge for the future
4. Message
"In our hotel's initiatives, we place great importance on first consulting with frontline staff about 'whether it is possible,' and moving forward while building a consensus with each department. Our guests highly evaluate our sustainable stance, which in turn boosts the motivation of our staff. Moving forward, we will also take hands with external partners to aim for a higher level of environmental management."
