
What does carbon-positive hospitality look like?
In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Jon Buerge, CEO of Urban Villages, about Populus, the world’s first carbon-positive hotel, and how sustainability is reshaping hospitality from the ground up. They explore how design, materials, and mindset can transform guest experiences, strengthen brand loyalty, and create long-term business value.
Jon shares the story behind Populus and the vision driving Urban Villages’ sustainable developments. He defines hospitality as a selfless pursuit of extraordinary experiences and explains why true hospitality must include care for the planet. From innovative building materials like fly ash concrete to transparent, guest-facing sustainability efforts, Jon and Dan discuss how Populus is redefining what it means to host with purpose.
Takeaways:
Quote of the Show:
“Hospitality is the kind of unwavering and selfless pursuit of an extraordinary experience for a guest” - Jon Buerge
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🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/
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