In an era where the clamour for environmental sustainability echoes across continents, the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Hotel Sustainability Basics (Basics) emerges as a beacon of progress in the hotel industry. With over 1,700 properties now bearing the hallmark of sustainability, this initiative marks a new dawn for eco-conscious travel and tourism.
Launched with the noble aim of guiding hotels towards greener practices, Basics has quickly become a global phenomenon, garnering participation from over 70 countries. From the bustling streets of Mexico to the serene landscapes of Mauritius, the initiative is celebrated for its comprehensive approach to sustainability, offering a clear path for hoteliers to enhance their environmental credentials.
At the heart of Basics lies a 12-step program meticulously designed to address the pressing environmental challenges of our times. This program focuses on pivotal areas such as reducing carbon emissions, minimizing plastic usage, conserving nature, and fostering community benefits. Basics elevates hotels’ sustainability efforts through this holistic approach and enriches the travel experience for eco-conscious guests.
Julia Simpson, WTTC president and CEO, lauded the initiative’s success at the recent assembly at ITB Berlin. Simpson’s words resonated with optimism and determination, underlining the industry’s commitment to a sustainable future. “Our goal is to have a globally recognized trademark that shows customers at a glance that a hotel is supporting the planet,” Simpson articulated. This vision of sustainability as a “win-win” scenario encapsulates the essence of Basics, showcasing its potential to bring about lasting change in the travel and tourism sector.
The initiative’s impressive roster of participants includes some of the world’s leading hotel brands, such as Jin Jiang, Louvre Hotel Group, Choice Hotels, and Radisson Hotel Group. These major players and diverse travel and tourism brands signify the widespread industry support for Basics, highlighting its role as a catalyst for global sustainability efforts.
Endorsements from esteemed organizations like Green Key and SGS further solidify Basics’ credibility. These independent verifiers are crucial in ensuring that hotels’ sustainability measures are effective and aligned with international standards.
As the WTTC leads the charge towards sustainable travel and tourism, the Hotel Sustainability Basics stands as a testament to the power of collective action. By uniting hotels, travel brands, and destinations under the banner of sustainability, Basics pave the way for a future where eco-friendly practices are encouraged and expected.
The journey of Basics from concept to global movement is a source of inspiration for the travel and tourism industry. It demonstrates the profound impact that can be achieved when visionaries come together to support a cause that is bigger than themselves. As more hotels join this pioneering initiative, the dream of a sustainable travel and tourism industry inches closer to reality, setting a new standard for others to follow.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach
