Defining Hospitality | Building Tomorrow’s Sustainable Hospitality - Jon Buerge - Defining Hospitality

Building Tomorrow’s Sustainable Hospitality - Jon Buerge - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 223

October 29, 2025 / 43:54/E223

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:

True hospitality is rooted in empathy and selfless guest care, with sustainability at its core.
Populus Hotel was designed to leave the planet better than it was found through carbon-positive innovation.
Sustainability enhances business performance by lowering costs and increasing guest loyalty.
The hospitality industry must evolve beyond rigid policies to embrace flexible, holistic sustainability solutions.
Investors are increasingly prioritizing sustainable projects that align with long-term environmental goals.
Consumer demand, especially among younger generations, is driving the industry toward greener practices.

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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