Sustainability in Tourism and Hospitality
Introduction and history of sustainable practices
CO2 emissions from tourism constitute approximately 5% of global CO2 emissions (excluding the energy used for constructions and facilities). However, considering emission of other greenhouse gasses, tourism contributes between 5% and 14% of the emissions globally (Simpson, Gössling, Scott, Hall, &Gladin, 2008). 75% of emissions in tourism sector are generated by transport of which 54% to 75% account for air transport, particularly long-haul trips (Simpson, Gössling, Scott, Hall, &Gladin, 2008). Tourism also contributes significantly to overconsumption of water and other resources. By 2035 global tourism is forecasted to grow by 179%; thus, the emissions and water consumption are supposed to grow proportionally (Simpson, Gössling, Scott, Hall, &Gladin, 2008). Thus, tourism organizations should focus on sustainable development as the main strategic objective. This paper covers the main advantages and opportunities in sustainability for tourism sector and the best practices for the industry.
History of Sustainable Practices in Tourism
After spill offshore of Santa Barbara (1969), people started to understand the impacts of pollution and environmental disasters on their health. Energy crisis of 1973-74 caused the increased concern of the hospitality sector regarding utility costs and energy supply. The hospitality sector started focusing on energy conservation strategies.1980-1990
United Nations introduced the concept of sustainable development formulated as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro stimulated numerous environmental initiatives such as green building and the first hospitality-specific environmental certification initiatives. Hoteliers started initiating in-house environmental programs.2000 – present time
Environmental objectives became a part of a broader corporate social responsibility. Hoteliers started establishing partnerships with various public and private environmental organizations. The LEED green building program became very popular globally amongst institutional investors for new build projects. The financial crisis of 2008 – 2009 increased focus on cost control measures. As a result of it, hoteliers began reevaluating their plant equipment and operational practices to reduce utility costs*Source: Goldstein, Primlani, 2012).
Definitions
Tourism organizations are capable of managing their societal, economic, and environmental responsibilities ethically, which benefits the industry, the employees and the wider local communities.According to the survey of Grant Thornton (2014), customer demand is one of the most important drivers for businesses of going green. 64% of businesses globally are motivated by this driver. Ethical considerations are also important for the majority of business. However, the importance of potential for cost savings has grown globally (Grant Thornton, 2014). In 2014, 67% of businesses considered this driver as important. It means that the benefits of sustainable orientation are becoming more tangible (Grant Thornton, 2014).
Sustainable water management is based on:
finding out, recording, and monitoring water consumption;
rationalizing and reducing water consumption;
utilizing mechanisms and systems for using water efficiently;
educating guests and employees about the importance of water and methods of water conservation;
developing a preventive maintenance program;
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