Recently, the demand for short-term rentals, commonly known as “shortlets” has grown across the globe and in Nigeria as well. With more people seeking flexible, convenient, and cost-effective accommodation options, shortlets have become an attractive alternative to hotels and long-term leases. But beyond convenience and cost, an important question arises: Are shortlets more sustainable?
Here, we’ll explore the environmental, economic, and social aspects of shortlets to evaluate whether they offer a more sustainable option compared to traditional accommodations like hotels. However, before we proceed, let’s quickly look at what a shortlet encompasses.
What are shortlets?
Shortlets refer to properties — ranging from apartments to villas- rented out for short periods, typically from a few days to a few months. These rentals cater to travelers, business professionals, and people looking for temporary accommodation. Also, they often come fully furnished and include amenities such as a kitchen, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi.
Now we’ve laid the foundation, we can explore its sustainability.
Environmental Sustainability
a. Lower energy and water consumption
One of the main arguments for shortlets being more sustainable is the potential for lower energy and water consumption compared to hotels. Hotels often operate with high occupancy and round-the-clock services leading to elevated energy usage from heating, cooling lighting, and laundry services. In contrast, shortlets are typically smaller, privately managed spaces where guests are encouraged to adopt more energy-conscious behaviors like turning off lights and appliances when not in use.
b. Efficient use of space
Because shortlets often use existing residential properties, it helps to reduce the environmental impact of building new hotels. This re-purposing of existing spaces helps cut down on the carbon emissions associated with construction and helps prevent urban sprawl.
Economic Sustainability
a. Supporting local economies
Shortlets can have a significant positive impact on local economies, particularly in areas where traditional tourism infrastructure is underdeveloped. When travelers stay in short lets, they can easily contribute directly to the local economy by shopping at nearby markets, eating at local restaurants, and using neighborhood services. Additionally, for property owners, it provides a reliable source of income, helping them cover property costs or reinvest in their properties.
b. Affordability for travelers
From an economic standpoint, short lets are often more affordable than hotels, especially for long stays. Guests can save money by cooking their meals, doing their laundry, and selecting accommodations that fit their budget. Due to flexibility of pricing, location, size, and amenities, short lets are accessible to a wider range of travelers from budget tourists to business executives.
Social Sustainability
a. Flexibility and convenience
Shortlets offer more flexibility and convenience than hotels. This makes them a sustainable choice for people in transition or those seeking a home-like environment during their travels. So whether you are a business traveler or a family on vacation, shortlets help to provide the ability to choose accommodations that meet your specific needs without committing to long-term contracts.
b. Social impact on communities
While shortlets can bring economic benefits to local areas, there are concerns about their social impact on residential communities. In some regions, shortlets have been linked to higher rental prices and the displacement of long-term residents. As property owners prioritize short-term rental income over long-term leases, housing shortages for residents may occur, driving up rent and reducing affordable housing options.
To mitigate this issue, cities in Nigeria should introduce regulations that limit the number of shortlets in residential areas. This will ensure a balance between tourism and the needs of permanent residents. Shortlets must be managed responsibly to avoid exacerbating housing inequalities.
The long-term viability of short lets
Shortlets offer a way for travelers to engage in more responsible tourism by staying in local neighborhoods and supporting community businesses. Unlike large hotel chains, which may direct revenue to corporate headquarters outside the region, shortlet revenue tends to stay within the local economy.
However, the sustainability of shortlets in the long term ultimately depends on how they are managed. Responsible property management includes maintaining the property well, conserving resources, and being considerate of the surrounding community. Travelers, too, play a role in making short lets more sustainable by practicing eco-friendly behaviors during their stay.
Final thoughts
Are shortlets more sustainable? Short lets have the potential to be a more sustainable option compared to traditional hotels, particularly in terms of environmental and economic benefits. They offer lower energy consumption, support local businesses, and provide flexible accommodation options.
However, sustainability is not tied to these alone; it also hinges on responsible management and the avoidance of social impacts such as housing shortages and community disruption. With responsible practices and thoughtful regulations, short lets can continue to be a viable and sustainable accommodation for the future.
In the meantime, if you are considering short lets for your next getaway or vacation, the Lifestyle App is the perfect place to access affordable, flexible options that check all your boxes. So, head over here to sign up now! Until next time, adios✌.
