No more free soap

Starting December 1 this year, the hotel industry in Shandong province will gradually phase out disposable amenities, according to a document issued by the local government.
Then from June 1, 2011, all hotels in the province will officially have to charge for disposable amenities, which include disposable toothbrushes, toothpaste, slippers, combs, shampoo and soap. The move is aimed at promoting low-carbon management in hotels.
China.org.cn reports that in the past few years, Shandong’s hotel industry has grown rapidly, which means consumption of one-time daily amenities by hotel guests has also increased, which has had an adverse effect on the environment.
Practical experience does not bear this out. Most amenities are taken by guests to use at home. This new move may save the hotels money, but the argument that it saves the environment is debatable.