Hotels Taking Steps Towards Sustainability in Oban

The Loch Melfort Hotel, steeped in its commitment to environmental responsibility, has initiated a range of sustainable practices aimed at minimizing their environmental footprint. The hotel replaced older boilers with a wood pellet boiler, significantly reducing their carbon emissions, and installed a substantial wood pellet store to minimize delivery frequency. To reduce 'food miles', meals are prepared using locally-sourced produce from farmers practicing closed cycle systems, while seafood is sourced from nearby Argyll. Conscious of waste management, the hotel utilizes refillable pump dispensers, significantly reducing plastic waste, and has installed low-energy light bulbs throughout the premises. Additionally, water supply comes directly from a local spring, delivering the freshest water to each room.

Loch Melfort Hotel has made substantial strides in their environmental practices, including the utilization of an organic reed bed sewerage system, dual flush cisterns in toilets, and recycling of old linens. Vegetable waste from the kitchen is composted on-site, and general refuse is divided per local authority guidelines. The hotel's garden hosts a diverse array of wildlife, while resident goats and Highland cattle naturally maintain the grassy areas. Local tradespeople are employed for all building and restoration projects, reaffirming the hotel's commitment to the local community. Moreover, the hotel recently installed its first E-car charging point, showing its openness to emerging sustainable technologies. Loch Melfort's impressive dedication to environmental sustainability was recognized with a Silver Award from Green Tourism, a testament to their exceptional environmental efforts.