Global hotel chains in South Korea have made a move to replace plastic straws with paper straws in the hotels. This switch comes after a series of international hotel chains have made the change, and aims at reducing plastic waste around the country and the world. Despite the extra cost to operation, Grand Ambassador Seoul has already replaced the straws.
“There have been some customers who have complained about paper straws, but for the most part there has been acceptance,” said a manager of the hotel’s lobby lounge.
The Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas and InterContinental Seoul COEX have also joined the transition with the hotels within the InterContinental Hotels Group stating efforts have been made to reduce plastic waste since June. Hilton Hotels and Conrad Hotels operating in South Korea have committed to help stop unnecessary waste and have been engaged in campaigns to minimise plastic waste since May.
Plastic straws have been banned from use in across all Conrad Hotel businesses. The hotels offer degradable utensils for takeout meals and encourage guests to bring their own cups or mugs for beverages.
Sheraton Seoul Palace Gangnam Hotel and the Marriott International are also now taking part in the moves and have confirmed to be taking steps to reduce plastic and other waste.
