<p>In this episode of the Whole Systems Hospitality Podcast, host Kathy Sue McGuire sits down with Paul Marquez, Global Head of Specifications and Sustainability at Excel Dryer, to explore how restroom design connects to sustainability, public health, operational efficiency, guest experience, and whole systems thinking.</p><p></p><p>From reducing paper waste to improving hand hygiene and lowering operational costs, this conversation highlights how overlooked guest touchpoints can become opportunities for more sustainable hospitality operations.</p><p></p><p>CHAPTER BREAKDOWN</p><p></p><p>00:00:32 — Day in the Life of a Paper Towel<br />The environmental journey of a paper towel—from forest to landfill in less than 24 hours.</p><p></p><p>00:04:22 — Better Alternatives to Paper Towels<br />Kathy introduces the environmental impact of paper towels and welcomes Paul Marquez.</p><p></p><p>00:05:06 — Sustainability &amp; Community Impact<br />How Excel Dryer supports sustainability education and partnerships.</p><p></p><p>00:06:00 — LEED, WELL &amp; Green Globe<br />A look at Excel Dryer’s certifications and sustainability commitments.</p><p></p><p>00:06:41 — Transparency &amp; EPDs<br />Why life cycle assessments and third-party standards matter.</p><p></p><p>00:09:11 — Solar &amp; Recycled Materials<br />Paul discusses solar panels and recycled materials.</p><p></p><p>00:10:25 — Understanding WELL Certification<br />Key considerations for building owners pursuing WELL certification.</p><p></p><p>00:11:21 — XLERATOR &amp; Performance Standards<br />How standardized testing supports transparent product claims.</p><p></p><p>00:12:45 — Indoor Air Quality &amp; HEPA Filtration<br />A discussion on restroom air quality and filtration systems.</p><p></p><p>00:14:48 — Clean Hands Save Lives<br />Why proper hand drying matters in public health.</p><p></p><p>00:15:36 — The Hybrid Restroom Approach<br />Balancing reduced paper towel use with accessibility and guest preferences.</p><p></p><p>00:17:40 — Cost Savings &amp; ROI<br />How reducing paper towel use lowers operating costs.</p><p></p><p>00:19:09 — Hidden Costs of Paper Towels<br />Plumbing issues, clogged toilets, and restroom downtime.</p><p></p><p>00:20:26 — Addressing Noise Concerns<br />How adjustable sound controls improve guest comfort.</p><p></p><p>00:22:39 — ADA Compliance &amp; Design Flexibility<br />Accessibility and high-traffic restroom considerations.</p><p></p><p>00:23:45 — Community Art Partnerships<br />How Excel Dryer partners with Artists for Humanity.</p><p></p><p>00:25:42 — Life Cycle Assessment Data<br />Why measurable environmental impact matters.</p><p></p><p>00:28:20 — Sustainability Awards &amp; Recognition<br />How third-party recognition validates environmental commitments.</p><p></p><p>00:29:39 — The Future of Commercial Hand Drying<br />Integrated sink-mounted dryers and evolving restroom design.</p><p></p><p>00:33:43 — Whole Systems Thinking in Practice<br />Kathy reflects on Excel Dryer’s sustainability approach.</p><p></p><p>⸻</p><p></p><p>🔗 Resources</p><p></p><p>• Excel Dryer — <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.exceldryer.com/" target="_blank">https://www.exceldryer.com/</a><br />• Whole Systems Hospitality — <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.wholesystemshospitality.com/" target="_blank">https://www.wholesystemshospitality.com/</a><br />• Podcast — <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.wholesystemshospitality.com/wshpodcast" target="_blank">https://www.wholesystemshospitality.com/wshpodcast</a></p><p></p><p>⸻</p><p></p><p>👤 About the Guest</p><p></p><p>Paul Marquez is the Global Head of Specifications and Sustainability at Excel Dryer, working with architects, designers, and hospitality professionals on sustainable restroom solutions focused on transparency, performance, and indoor air quality.</p>