Discover how sustainable accommodation providers can reduce environmental impact while enhancing guest experiences through eco-friendly outdoor spaces. From recycled plastic picnic tables and renewable energy to locally sourced materials, this guide explores how smart design choices can create low-maintenance, environmentally conscious hospitality spaces that attract eco-conscious travellers.
Table of Contents
- Sustainable accommodation attracts eco-conscious travellers
- YHA Whitby transformed its outdoor space into an eco-friendly glamping site
- Local sourcing helps reduce carbon footprint and supports UK businesses
- Renewable energy lowers long-term operational costs
- Recycled plastic picnic tables offer durable, low-maintenance seating
- Sustainable design improves guest experience while reducing environmental impact
As sustainable tourism grows, accommodation providers are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing guest experience. From sustainable materials to renewable energy, every decision can help create a more sustainable accommodation site that attracts eco-conscious travellers.
A fantastic example of this shift towards sustainable accommodation is YHA Whitby’s recent project. Faced with limited indoor capacity and an underused outdoor space, YHA Whitby transformed an overgrown area into an eco-friendly glamping site that supports local businesses.
Here’s how they did it—and how you can take inspiration from their approach to create a sustainable accommodation site of your own.
The Challenge of Expanding Capacity Sustainably
YHA Whitby was operating at full occupancy, with high demand for their unique accommodation near Whitby Abbey. Rather than building additional indoor rooms, they chose to expand outdoors, creating a sustainable accommodation glamping area that aligned with their environmental goals. They were also committed to supporting British businesses and sourcing materials locally to reduce the project’s carbon footprint.
Here’s what YHA Whitby did differently, and how you can do the same for your accommodation:
1. Partner with local British suppliers
YHA Whitby chose to work with British suppliers known for sustainable products:
- Coal Burner Fireplaces – Locally sourced from a company in Cornwall, these fireplaces provide warmth and ambience without the need for extensive heating solutions.
- British-Made Bell Tents – The glamping tents were sourced from another Cornish company, reducing transportation emissions and supporting local craftsmanship.
- Decking from The Prince’s Trust – The bell tents are set up on durable, eco-friendly decking provided by The Prince’s Trust, a UK charity that empowers young people. By choosing this decking, YHA Whitby not only reduced the environmental impact but also supported a meaningful cause.
- Picnic benches by British Recycled Plastic
Partnering with local suppliers not only reduced the site’s carbon footprint but also ensured the project contributed to British industry and sustainable business practices. For accommodation providers, sourcing locally is a great way to support the community while minimising environmental impact.
2. Install renewable energy for long-term sustainability
To power their new glamping area, YHA Whitby collaborated with a local renewable energy provider to install solar panels. This setup helps the site remain largely self-sufficient, reducing its reliance on traditional energy sources and keeping utility costs low. For those developing a sustainable accommodation site, renewable energy sources like solar can significantly reduce ongoing costs and environmental impact.
3. Choose low-maintenance, sustainable furniture
Outdoor furniture is essential for guest comfort, but traditional options can be high-maintenance and short-lived. YHA Whitby chose recycled plastic picnic tables from British Recycled Plastic to provide guests with durable seating that requires minimal upkeep. Made from UK-sourced recycled plastic, these picnic benches are a sustainable choice that won’t need repainting, resealing, or frequent replacement. For hospitality sites looking to lower ongoing maintenance costs while promoting eco-friendliness, recycled plastic furniture is an ideal option.
4. Opt for Native Landscaping and Minimal Impact Design
YHA Whitby’s glamping area was designed to work with, rather than against, the natural landscape. They collaborated with local landscapers to plant native species that require minimal watering and upkeep, creating a natural, low-impact environment. For any sustainable accommodation project, native landscaping helps reduce water usage and supports local ecosystems.
Why Choose Sustainable Accommodation?
Creating a sustainable accommodation site isn’t just about reducing environmental impact—it also adds value for environmentally-conscious guests. Today’s travellers are more aware of their carbon footprint, and many actively seek out accommodations that align with their values. By investing in sustainable practices, accommodation providers can attract this growing market while reducing long-term operational costs.
For YHA Whitby, the sustainable glamping site has become a standout feature that enhances the guest experience. Guests can enjoy the comfort of British-made bell tents, relax by Cornish-made fire pits, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area—all within a space designed to minimise environmental impact.
Key Benefits of Building a Sustainable Accommodation Site
If you’re considering creating a sustainable accommodation site, here are some benefits to keep in mind:
- Lower operational costs – Sustainable materials and renewable energy solutions, like solar panels, reduce ongoing expenses related to maintenance and utilities.
- Attracting environmentally-conscious guests – Travellers increasingly prioritise sustainability. Offering a green, eco-friendly experience can attract new guests and foster brand loyalty.
- Supporting local economy – By choosing local suppliers, you support the economy and reduce the carbon emissions associated with transportation.
- Enhanced guest experience – Sustainable practices don’t just benefit the environment; they also create a unique, feel-good experience for guests who appreciate eco-friendly accommodations.
By making mindful, sustainable choices, you can transform any outdoor space into a functional, eco-friendly area that benefits both your guests and the environment.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
If you’re ready to create a sustainable accommodation site that attracts environmentally-conscious guests, we’d love to help. Our recycled plastic picnic benches are designed to provide low-maintenance, durable seating that aligns perfectly with sustainable hospitality goals.
You can explore our full range of recycled plastic picnic tables and picnic benches to find the perfect fit for your outdoor space, and join us in creating a greener future, one bench at a time.
For more information, please get in touch with our support team, available 5 days a week on 01422 419 555 or info@britishrecycledplastic.co.uk.
Written by the British Recycled Plastic team.
Updated May 2026
Recycled plastic does not absorb moisture, so it does not rot, splinter, or require regular maintenance like timber. This makes British Recycled Plastic picnic benches and tables a more reliable long-term solution for schools, parks, and public spaces. All our tables and benches come with a 25 year guarantee.
Recycled plastic picnic tables are designed to last for decades in outdoor conditions. Unlike timber, they do not rot, splinter, or degrade due to moisture, which significantly extends their service life and reduces replacement frequency. British Recycled Plastic picnic tables come with a 25 year guarantee.
British Recycled plastic picnic tables are manufactured from surplus plastic materials sourced from UK manufacturing processes. These materials are processed into solid plastic profiles designed to provide long-term structural performance in outdoor environments.
HM Government allows VAT relief on equipment that is solely for the use of disabled people. If the picnic table / picnic bench has been bought for personal use the VAT could possibly be reclaimed, but this is not the case in other circumstances.
When it comes to durability and longevity, British Recycled Plastic picnic tables are the gold standard. Unlike traditional wooden picnic tables and picnic benches, which can rot, warp, or splinter over time, recycled plastic picnic tables are specifically designed to withstand the elements and maintain their integrity for decades.
Our outdoor picnic benches are made from 100% recycled plastic, a material that is resistant to water, UV rays, and extreme weather conditions. This means they won’t fade, crack, or degrade even after years of exposure to the sun and rain. Additionally, recycled plastic picnic tables are immune to pests such as termites, making them an excellent choice for both residential gardens and high-traffic public spaces.
For those looking for long-lasting solutions, investing in a plastic picnic table made from recycled materials ensures minimal maintenance and maximum durability. Whether you need picnic tables for a park, school, or commercial setting, these tables provide a sustainable, cost-effective option that outlasts their wooden and metal counterparts.
Keeping your British Recycled Plastic picnic tables in top condition is simple and requires minimal effort. You can give them a wipe down with a damp cloth every now and then. Some owners give their picnic benches an annual blast with a jet wash, particularly if they are under trees where sap can get on them.
Building a plastic picnic table can be an enjoyable and rewarding project, especially when using sustainable materials like British Recycled Plastic artificial lumber/ plastic wood. Our Lumber is Maintenance-free with a 25 year guarantee. It will not rot, split or splinter and can be worked like wood. We have a wide range of recycled plastic rectangular lumber, square lumber, lumber planks and decking lumber below. Please See our artificial lumber page for more information.
Painting a British Recycled plastic picnic table is not recommended or indeed needed. Unlike wooden picnic benches, recycled plastic picnic tables are designed to be low-maintenance and retain their colour without the need for painting or staining.
One of the many benefits of outdoor picnic benches made from recycled plastic is their long-lasting, fade-resistant colour. These tables are available in a variety of colours (even rainbow!) to suit any outdoor space, so there’s no need for additional painting. Opting for recycled plastic picnic tables ensures you get a durable, weather-resistant, and eco-friendly product that looks great for years with minimal effort.
For a vibrant, long-lasting, value added alternative to traditional options, choose recycled plastic picnic tables over painted outdoor picnic tables.
Recycled plastic lumber should always be stored laid flat on delivery, until you start work on it.
In common with all of our products, all of our recycled plastic picnic benches are sent out via the national pallet network, strapped to standard 1000mm x 1200mm pallets. Most picnic benches go on two pallets and, if they are flat-packed, can be stacked five high on the same two pallets. If they are fully assembled then they can be stacked two high.
The delivery cost is included for mainland UK addresses, other than Highlands and Islands for which our hauliers charge a slight premium.
