HMore recently published an article featuring Clean the World, where Manuel Rodriguez shares insights into the organization’s global mission to advance sustainability and support those in need. He explains how he and his team work to reduce waste streams from hotels and distribute essential hygiene products to vulnerable communities
“It started as a simple idea to reduce waste,” says Manuel. “Now, we work with thousands of hotels.”
Over the past fifteen years, Clean the World has grown into a global force, with facilities across several continents and partnerships with over 6,000 hotels worldwide.
“Our goal is simple: to make the world a better place,” Manuel adds.
Innovative Projects Driving Change
One of Clean the World’s standout initiatives is the assembly of Hygiene Kits during corporate social responsibility (CSR) events.
“These events focus on team building,” Manuel explains. “Employees fill kits with products like soap, toothpaste, and shampoo, which are then donated—on behalf of the company—to refugee camps, disaster zones, or charitable organizations.”
These activities offer businesses a tangible way to fulfil CSR objectives while also raising employee awareness.
“Many people want to help but don’t know how,” says Manuel. “This is an accessible and impactful way to make a difference.”
A game element is often included—like a competition to see which team can pack the most kits in a set time—which adds energy and excitement, especially in competitive teams like sales.
Thanks to partnerships with Amazon, Microsoft, and Expedia, thousands of kits have been delivered over the past year to Ukraine and reception centres worldwide.
Looking Ahead: Growth Across Europe
Currently, only 2% of European hotels are part of Clean the World’s network—a figure Manuel sees as a massive opportunity.
“We still have a lot of work to do,” he says with a smile.
Clean the World aims to expand its European impact by partnering more closely with hotels, major corporations, and an extended network of local and regional collaborators.
Although progress on hotel sustainability can be slow, Manuel is optimistic:
“More and more hotel guests care about sustainability. Younger travellers especially are asking tough questions about a hotel’s environmental actions. That kind of pressure helps us drive change and get hotels to take real action.”
Sustainable Logistics in Europe
For some time, a key partner based in Aalsmeer has proudly supported Clean the World’s mission by handling European distribution—with sustainability at the forefront.
Since the beginning of 2025, their transport fleet has run on HVO100, a fossil-free diesel alternative. Soon, their fourth electric truck will be on the road. The company is also investing in a new facility designed to support sustainable growth for the next 30 years.
