Energy, Water and Waste Management in the Accommodation Sector of Tamale Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

This study was aimed at identifying environ mentally friendly practices adopted by accommodation facilities in Tamale Metropolis. Fro m time immemorial environ mental problems have been associated with the operations of accommodation facilities world wide. In th is regard, measures and initiat ives have been put in place in recent times to minimize the effects of the accommodation sector on the environment. What is the effort of the accommodation sector in the Tamale Metropolis and Ghana holistically in this regard? A total of 42 facilit ies were sampled fro m 68 registered hotels in the Metropolis for the study. The data collection tool used was questionnaire. Parameters of concern centered on water conservation, energy conservation, waste management and corporate social responsibility. Fro m the study, it was realized that only 8% had environ mental policies in p lace. Close to 97% of the facilities d id not live up to their corporate social responsibilit ies. Ho wever, about 60% used low flow shower heads while 97% used treated water to irrigate gardens and lawns. The use of energy saving bulbs as well as towel and napkin reuse were popular practices observed. Based on the above, training programmes are reco mmended for hotel operators and employees on environmental management practices.