Authored article by Tirtha Roy Choudhury, Director of HR at Crowne Plaza Greater Noida

Experts around the world firmly believe that India will be one of the most critically impacted countries by environmental degradation, global warming, and climate change. Realizing what it could mean for India, which is already stretched very thin for resources, the government of India, the general public, and the corporate sector are doing their bit for environmental conservation and sustainable progress. Being one of the most important sectors of the economy, the hospitality sector is not behind anyone else.

As travelers become aware of their environmental impact, the hospitality industry is adapting to meet their needs by providing sustainable and eco-friendly hotel experiences. In India, these adaptations are becoming increasingly important as the country’s tourism industry continues to evolve and grow. Being sustainable in the hospitality industry means using resources more efficiently, reducing waste, and reducing negative impacts on the environment. This includes everything from energy-efficient buildings and appliances to reducing plastic waste and sourcing local organic food.

One of the major changes in the hospitality industry is the use of renewable energy. Solar panels, wind turbines, and other sustainable energy sources are becoming increasingly popular in hotels, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and reducing their carbon footprint. In addition to renewable energy, hotels are also looking for new ways to reduce waste. This includes programs such as recycling programs, reducing single-use plastics, and composting food waste. Many hotels are also partnering with local organizations to donate junk food to local charities, reducing food waste and supporting the community.

Sustainable tourism is not just about reducing negative impacts; it’s also about creating good content. Hotels are recognizing the importance of community support, and are working to promote local culture and heritage. This includes sourcing local products and working with local entrepreneurs, artists, and designers to provide unique and authentic guest experiences. Sustainable tourism is not only better for the environment and local communities; it is also good for performance. Travelers are choosing eco-friendly and sustainable hotels, and are willing to pay more for these experiences. This means that hotels that prioritize sustainability can attract discerning and conscious customers.

The government of India has also recognized the importance of regular tourism and has taken measures to promote it. The Ministry of Tourism has launched the “Swadesh Darshan” initiative, which aims to develop theme-based tourist circuits in the country while promoting local culture, heritage, and handicrafts. The government has also launched the “Atithi Devo Bhava” campaign, aimed at promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.

From the above discussion, we can comfortably assert that the shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels, travel, and tourism is a positive development for the Indian hospitality industry. Not only does it reduce negative impacts on the environment and local communities, but it creates new business opportunities and attracts environmentally sensitive customers. By prioritizing sustainability, the Indian hospitality industry can play an important role in promoting responsible tourism and creating a better future for all.

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