How India’s hospitality sector is leading the way in sustainability, ET HospitalityWorld

In recent years, the Indian hospitality sector has emerged as an active participant in embracing sustainability practices. With growing awareness of environmental issues and a commitment to responsible tourism, hotels and resorts across the country are increasingly joining efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and promote environmentally friendly practices. Green hotels have been recognized for their commitment to energy savings, water conservation and waste reduction.

Green hotels are an integral part of the growing ecotourism movement, which emphasizes promoting destinations and accommodations with minimal impact on the environment. India’s diverse landscapes and cultural wealth position it as an ideal hub for ecotourism, and green hotels play a crucial role as facilitators of this transition. These properties specifically target environmentally conscious travelers, offering sustainable travel options that align with their values ​​and desire to reduce their carbon footprint.

This shift towards sustainability is driven by the industry’s recognition of its significant impact on the environment. The hospitality industry is responsible for 1 to 2 percent of global CO2 emissions, a figure that is expected to rise. Therefore, it has become imperative for hotels and resorts to take action to reduce their carbon footprint. The sector aims to reduce emissions by 66 percent per room by 2030 and by 90 percent by 2050 to prevent emissions from growing as the sector expands.

One of the most notable aspects of this initiative is the adoption of renewable energy sources. Many hotels are investing in solar panels, wind turbines and other alternative energy solutions to power their operations. By using clean energy, these facilities not only reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, but also reduce their overall CO2 emissions. Sustainable practices extend beyond energy savings. Water management initiatives such as rainwater harvesting and wastewater treatment are becoming increasingly common in hotels across India. By implementing water-saving technologies and promoting responsible water use among guests, hotels are making significant progress in conserving this precious resource.

In addition to resource conservation, waste management is another area where the hospitality sector is making significant progress. Many hotels have implemented extensive recycling programs and composting initiatives to minimize waste going to landfills. In addition, eco-friendly amenities and packaging solutions are becoming more common, reducing the impact of guest accommodations on the environment.

The hospitality sector is witnessing an increase in the adoption of sustainable purchasing practices. Hotels and resorts are increasingly prioritizing locally sourced and organic ingredients for their food and beverage offerings. By supporting local farmers and producers, these companies not only reduce their environmental footprint, but also promote economic growth in the communities in which they operate.

Modern travelers are becoming increasingly aware of the environment and the consequences of their decisions. As a result, they are actively looking for eco-friendly accommodations, leading to a growing demand for “green hotels” in India.

Recognizing the crucial role of sustainable practices in the hospitality industry, the Indian government has taken proactive measures to promote such initiatives. Policies and incentives have been introduced to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices at hotels and resorts. There are programs that aim to mainstream sustainability in the tourism sector, with the aim of developing a sustainable, responsible and resilient tourism sector. These government initiatives serve as a catalyst for the widespread adoption of sustainable practices within the hospitality sector, promoting a culture of environmental responsibility and innovation.

In conclusion, the Indian hospitality sector plays a role in adopting sustainable measures and sets an inspiring example. Through innovative initiatives and commitment to environmental stewardship, hotels and resorts across the country are emphasizing that responsible tourism is the need of the hour that is also economically viable. As the green revolution gathers momentum, the future of India’s hospitality sector looks brighter and more sustainable than ever before.

The author, Pradeep Shetty, is president of FHRAI.