In a groundbreaking advancement for sustainable tourism, over 1,700 hotels across 70 countries have embraced the WTTC’s ‘Hotel Sustainability Basics’ programme.
- This initiative offers a 12-step framework for reducing carbon emissions, enhancing conservation, and benefiting local communities, making it easier for hotels to adopt sustainable practices.
- Prominent hotel groups from nations such as France, China, Mexico, and India are participating, alongside renowned travel brands.
- The initiative has received strong endorsements from key destinations, including the Caribbean and UAE, highlighting its global impact.
- WTTC’s leader, Julia Simpson, emphasises the initiative’s potential to create lasting change in the hospitality industry.
The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) ‘Hotel Sustainability Basics’ initiative marks a significant global shift towards sustainable practices within the tourism and hospitality sector. Established only a year ago, it has swiftly gained the participation of more than 1,700 hotels spanning 70 countries. This initiative provides a structured, 12-step programme designed to help hotels in their initial journey towards sustainability. By focusing on reducing carbon emissions, promoting nature conservation, and integrating local community benefits, this initiative aims to present customers with an easily recognisable symbol of environmental responsibility.
With notable participation from international hotel groups such as Jin Jiang, Louvre Hotel Group, Choice Hotels, and Radisson Hotel Group, the programme illustrates a widespread endorsement of sustainable practices. These hotel groups are spread across various countries, including France, China, Mexico, India, Germany, South Africa, Philippines, and Norway. Additionally, well-regarded travel brands like Intrepid and Abercrombie & Kent have also joined the initiative, broadening its reach beyond traditional accommodation providers. Such extensive involvement underscores the hospitality industry’s collective commitment to sustainability.
Beyond individual hotel groups, the ‘Hotel Sustainability Basics’ initiative has garnered endorsements from several tourist destinations around the globe. Regions such as the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, UAE, Azerbaijan, Mexico, and Ecuador have voiced their support, which further validates the programme’s worldwide influence. This wide geographic acceptance not only promotes a collaborative approach but also strengthens the initiative’s impact across different market segments and cultural contexts.
WTTC’s President and CEO, Julia Simpson, acknowledges the remarkable uptake of the programme within a year, highlighting its objective of establishing a globally recognised trademark. She states, “Our goal is to have a globally recognised trademark that shows customers at a glance that a hotel is supporting the planet by saving energy, cutting plastics, protecting nature, and supporting their local community.” This vision signals a proactive step towards environmental stewardship within the hospitality industry, as evidenced by the extensive waiting list and the rapid verification of participating properties.
The widespread adoption of WTTC’s ‘Hotel Sustainability Basics’ initiative underscores a transformative movement in the global hospitality industry, promising significant environmental benefits.
