The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced a significant milestone for its Hotel Sustainability Basics (Basics) program, with 3,400 properties now verified across nearly 80 countries. This program, overseen by respected verifiers Green Key and SGS, guides hoteliers in enhancing their sustainability practices, aiming to elevate standards across the global hospitality sector. By following a 12-step program focused on reducing carbon footprints, supporting conservation efforts, and benefiting local communities, hotels of all sizes can participate.
This achievement underlines a crucial advancement in Travel & Tourism’s journey towards a more sustainable and resilient future. Major hotel groups from key tourism destinations like Germany, China, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Sweden, Spain, India, Madagascar, and Turkey have embraced this initiative. Its global adoption signifies the industry’s eagerness to progress in sustainability efforts.
Furthermore, Basics has expanded geographically and formed strategic partnerships to strengthen the sector’s sustainability alignment. A notable collaboration with BeCause is poised to enhance relationships and visibility with Online Travel Agents (OTAs), offering a valuable platform for sustainably committed hotels. This initiative reflects WTTC’s commitment to fostering meaningful industry connections and promoting a united approach to sustainability.
Basics’ full alignment with Green Key ensures that all Green Key-certified hotels effortlessly achieve Basics verification, streamlining sustainability efforts across the board. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said; “WTTC’s Hotel Sustainability Basics is a powerful testament to our collective effort in promoting sustainable practices in the hospitality industry.
“Reaching 3,400 verified properties is not just a milestone; it’s a clear indication that the industry is ready to embrace sustainability on a global scale. This initiative is about uniting hotels, industry partners, and sustainability standards to create a future that is resilient, responsible, and respectful of our planet.”
Major hotel brands such as Jin Jiang, Louvre Hotels Group, Choice Hotels, and Radisson Hotel Group have now embraced the ‘Basics’ initiative. This initiative has also received support from various destinations globally, including the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, UAE, Azerbaijan, Mexico, and Ecuador.
As Basics expands and develops, WTTC continues its commitment to guiding the Travel & Tourism sector towards a more sustainable and accountable future. Through collaboration with hotels, industry partners, and sustainability standards, WTTC is catalyzing a significant transformation, promoting practices that safeguard the environment and empower local communities.
