Hoteliers Celebrating World Tourism Day to Promote Sustainability

Sandeep Kaul

Director of Operations, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa,

Panaji, Goa, India] –26th September 2023 – In 2023, the world commemorates World Tourism Day under the banner of “Tourism and Green Investment,” shedding light on the urgent call for increased and precisely directed investments in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals. The hospitality sector has united in a resolute mission, ardently championing both sustainability and progress, all while enlightening our cherished guests about these shared objectives.

Goa Marriott Resort and Spa’s commitment to sustainability is evident in our day-to-day operations. Recently on World Environment Day, we planted 190 saplings in and around our resort, mirroring its dedication to a greener world, one key at a time. “We have eliminated the use of plastic materials in our restaurants, opting for glass bottles and paper straws to minimize our environmental footprint.” Additionally, “we take pride in our on-site cultivation of coconut trees, using this sustainable resource in many of our dishes. We have proudly implemented a sustainable seafood program, source ingredients locally within 200km of Goa for our coffee shop, offer up to 30% plant-based options in in-room dining, and ensure our menu includes gluten-free and vegan choices, all contributing to our commitment to eco-conscious practices. By utilizing homegrown ingredients and minimizing plastic usage, we aim to not only provide exceptional experiences but also contribute to the preservation of our beautiful natural surroundings in Goa.

With Marriott Hotels, guests can be assured that every moment of their stay will be imbued with… Wonderful Hospitality. Always.

Samir MC

Managing Director, Fortune Hotels

Tourism is more than just travel; it serves as a bridge between cultures and a key driver of economic development. At Fortune Hotels, we recognise the profound responsibility that rests upon our industry – not only as exceptional experience providers, key employers supporting multifarious livelihoods, but also as custodians of Mother Earth trying to conserve the natural and cultural treasures that make India the incredible and unique travel destination that it is.

As we celebrate World Tourism Day, we must recognise that all of us – travellers, industry stakeholders, and most importantly, industry executives – have a collective responsibility towards reducing our ecological footprint and creating a green future that positively impacts our community thereby bringing in a fundamental transformation centred around sustainability. Tourism’s future is bright as we all strive for a more responsible and well-grounded ecosystem.

Sandeep Talaulicar

MD, Jakson Hospitality

Jakson Inns Phaltan (JIP) is India’s first Platinum-rated and Net Zero Energy hotel recognized by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and is the pioneer in India with a 450KW solar array. It has an STP and ETP to prevent the release of human, kitchen and chemical waste into the environment. We have also implemented rain harvesting systems, double-glazed windows, LED lighting, motion sensors and a bio gas plant as integral parts of our eco-friendly design. The efforts led to our monthly electricity expenses dropping from Rs.9 lakhs to just Rs.1 lakh. Despite operating in a region with limited water resources, we have achieved near self-sufficiency in water supply, showcasing the financial benefits of sustainable construction methods. Our latest commitment is transitioning into India’s leading Net Zero Waste hotel. We have implemented a robust waste management program, segregating waste into nine categories to minimize our environmental impact. Our dedicated team, both local and from afar, plays a pivotal role in spreading the Green message throughout Phaltan. Engaging in Swachh Bharat campaigns, Green-a-thons and adopting schools to teach environmentally aligned classes, our employees are true ambassadors of eco-consciousness. Our mission is to encourage staff and visitors alike to actively participate in preserving and protecting our planet.

Rishi S.Puri

Senior Vice President(Operations) Mayfair Hotels And Resorts

Having spent more than three decades in the industry, I firmly believe that Tourism Day is not merely one day out of the 365 on our calendar. It is a lifestyle we have all chosen to embrace, a passion, and a way of life we aspire to lead. As we celebrate World Tourism Day, Mayfair Hotels and Resorts proudly take the less-travelled path in the world of hospitality. We don’t limit our commitment to just one day: every day, we’re pushing the boundaries of conventional tourism. Our focus on sustainability and green investment is a journey that extends far beyond a mere celebration. We’re planting the seeds of change, fostering partnerships with local communities, and crafting experiences that defy ordinary travel. With each guest, we’re architecting a greener, more responsible future for tourism – an extraordinary journey that knows no bounds. It’s no wonder that our tagline remains “Stay with us, Stay with Nature.”

Jaychandran

Vice President of Operations, Niraamaya Wellness Retreats

On World Tourism Day, Niraamaya Wellness Retreats proudly reaffirms its unwavering dedication to responsible travel and sustainability. In a world where conscious tourism is gaining increasing importance, we at Niraamaya are taking significant steps to ensure that our brand serves as a shining example of eco-consciousness and responsible tourism.

At the core of our initiatives is a strong focus on sustainability. We take great pride in offering organic, sumptuous, and farm-to-table dining experiences. This not only provides our guests with a unique and authentic culinary journey but also contributes to reducing our ecological footprint. Our team actively engages in a range of sustainability activities, including tree-planting initiatives, local education on soil and water conservation, clean-up drives, and more. These actions play a vital role in preserving the natural environment, raising awareness, and ensuring the pristine beauty of our surroundings.

Our commitment extends beyond environmental preservation; we are also passionate about conserving cultural heritage. Niraamaya wholeheartedly supports local communities in showcasing traditional arts, music, dance, and crafts. These centuries-old cultural expressions are integral to the local communities we serve, and we are dedicated to ensuring their preservation.

Furthermore, we proudly support social enterprises and charitable establishments, aligning our business goals with social responsibility. We understand that responsible travel goes hand-in-hand with supporting the well-being and growth of the communities we interact with.

On this World Tourism Day, Niraamaya Wellness Retreats reaffirms its dedication to responsible travel and green investment. We remain steadfast in our commitment to making a positive impact on both the environment and the communities we are privileged to serve.

Vishal Tony

Founder and MD, Ayatana Hospitality

On World Tourism Day, we proudly reaffirm our unwavering commitment to sustainable hospitality. Our foremost objective revolves around the preservation of the local ecosystem, with a deliberate focus on minimizing disturbances to the native flora and fauna.

In our endeavor to achieve this, we’ve meticulously designed our guest cottages to harness natural light effectively, thereby significantly reducing our reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours. This not only aids in conserving energy but also contributes to creating a delightful and welcoming atmosphere for our valued guests.

We have taken further steps to reinforce our eco-friendly initiatives, such as embracing recycled water usage for non-potable purposes and eliminating plastic bottle usage. Our innovative waste management practices, including the repurposing of linens, not only add a distinctive touch to our offerings but also play a pivotal role in waste reduction.

Additionally, our commitment to responsible ecotourism is exemplified through our guided nature walks and immersive cultural insights, enriching the experiences of our guests while promoting environmental awareness.

Furthermore, we believe that the growth and empowerment of our team members are integral to our success as a responsible enterprise. By investing in their professional development, we ensure that each individual becomes a catalyst for positive change within our organization.

In conclusion, our unwavering dedication to sustainability and education forms the bedrock of our vision for a greener, more responsible future in the realm of tourism.

Navneet Jain

CEO, Radisson Blu Kaushambi Delhi NCR and Radisson Blu Towers Kaushambi Delhi NCR

On World Tourism Day, Radisson Blu Kaushambi Delhi NCR recognizes the importance of not only celebrating the joy of travel but also embracing our role as responsible custodians of the environment. Our hotel is at the forefront of this movement, committed to a greener future. We actively engage in eco-friendly initiatives, reducing our carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy sources by utilizing natural lighting in our restaurants during most daylight hours and implementing recycling programs. Our hotel have adopted green technologies, from LED lighting to OWC machines ( Organic waste composting ). As we celebrate World Tourism Day, Radisson Blu Kaushambi Delhi NCR brand stands as a beacon of sustainability, promoting responsible tourism that harmonizes with nature and benefits all.

Swajib Swapan Chatterjee

COO Sinclairs Hotels and Resorts

We celebrate the incredible power of travel on World Tourism Day. Not only just economically but environmentally also it has a huge impact on our world. This year, the theme of World Tourism Day is “Green Investment,” which emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices play in shaping the future of travel. At Sinclairs Hotels and Resorts we committed ourselves to be the advocate of green initiatives and eco-friendly practices in the hospitality industry. We use only glass bottles for drinking water (in rooms and restaurants). Instead of plastic straws and stirrers we use paper straws and wooden stirrers. We are recycling the plastic containers and cropping plants in them. As we have STP mechanism, we use treated waste water for gardening. We take plantation very seriously even involve our guests in planting saplings, so that they can feel closer to nature. In Darjeeling, we do rain water harvesting and use the rain water for ground water recharge. We believe that remaining dedicated towards the principles of green investment and sustainability will create more ecological and responsible tourism industry.

Rayan Aranha

Vice President Hospitality & Commercial Brigade Group

As we celebrate World Tourism Day, the theme for this year, “Tourism and Green Investment,” holds significant importance for all the operators in the industry. At Brigade Hospitality, we are dedicated to providing all our visitors with a warm, enjoyable, and welcoming experience while also being mindful of Mother Nature.

Over the past four decades, tourism has transformed our nation’s businesses and communities, but it has also had an impact on our ecosystem. Across our hotels and lifestyle clubs, we have adopted environmentally friendly practices and protected natural resources.

Our initiatives include the adoption of renewable energy sources, the installation of water-efficient fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, the elimination of single-use plastics, the provision of electric vehicle charging stations, and much more. These projects not only contribute to environmental conservation but also reduce operational costs for our brand and enhance the guest experience.

Sudeep Sharma

General Manager, The Westin Pune Koregaon Park

At The Westin Pune Koregaon Park, I’m delighted to share our commitment to sustainable practices on this World Tourism Day. Here, sustainability is at the heart of our operations. Our in-house bottling plant ensures that we minimize plastic waste and provide our guests with purified water while our RBA (Recycle, Bottle, and Act) program promotes recycling, reflecting our dedication to a cleaner environment. We’re also proud to use wind energy to power a significant portion of our hotel, reducing our carbon footprint. Additionally, we offer EV charging stations to encourage eco-friendly travel. Our on-site micro-greens garden allows us to serve fresh, organic produce in our dishes, promoting sustainable and responsible dining as our composite pit not only reduces landfill waste but also allows us to convert organic waste into valuable compost, which is used to enrich our garden. In every room, you’ll find wall-mounted toiletries, a simple yet impactful measure to reduce single-use plastics.

As we celebrate World Tourism Day under the theme of “Tourism and Green Investment,” The Westin Pune Koregaon Park reaffirms its commitment to sustainable tourism and green practices. We invite all our guests and partners to join us in this important journey towards a greener, more responsible future.

Harkaran Singh

General Manager, Radisson Blu Mumbai International Airport

Radisson Blu Mumbai International Airport is nestled in the heart of the city, our oasis offers not just comfort, but a commitment to a greener world. Join us in the journey to reduce our carbon footprint by 30% before 2025. As part of the Radisson Roadtrip, explore India’s wonders via eco-friendly electric vehicles, preserving our planet’s beauty. With over 113 Radisson hotels across 64 cities, your next destination is just 4 hours away. Choose a stay that resonates with nature’s tune, where every stay is a step towards a sustainable tomorrow.

Tanveer Kwatra

General Manager, W Goa

On this World Tourism Day, we take pride in our commitment to sustainable luxury at W Goa. As the General Manager, I am delighted to announce our unwavering dedication to eco-conscious hospitality. We not only provide world-class service but also champion environmental responsibility. With the adoption of EV chargers, we’re driving towards a greener future, reducing carbon emissions one charge at a time. Our devotion extends to energy efficiency, where we’ve embraced LED lighting and a smart energy management system. We optimize heating, cooling, and lighting based on occupancy, preserving energy without compromising comfort. We’re mindful of our water footprint, reducing consumption and collecting rainwater for landscaping and non-potable uses. Our recycling program, embraced by guests and staff alike, exemplifies our commitment to reducing waste. By sourcing locally, we support our community and diminish transportation emissions. In our restaurant, you’ll savor seasonal, sustainable, and organic delights. Our staff is not just employees; they’re ambassadors for eco-conscious behaviours, ensuring our mission resonates with every guest. And as a testament to our commitment to our local environment, we regularly organize clean-up drives for the Chapora Fort and beach. Together, we’re not just a luxury hotel; we’re a force for sustainable tourism.

Vinesh Gupta

General Manager – The Den Hotel, Bengaluru

We take immense pride in our commitment towards sustainable tourism. On World Tourism Day, we reaffirm our dedication to responsible practices, from reducing our carbon footprint to supporting local communities. Our aim is to provide our guests with exceptional experiences while preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Bengaluru. Together, let us create a greener, more conscious future for tourism.

Soumitra Kundu

Assistant General Manager The Orchid Hotel Pune

The Orchid Hotel Pune being an eco-friendly hotel, is always committed to sustainable practices with various green initiatives. This World Environment Day, we are organizing a tree plantation drive where our team will plant 100 trees.

Our hotel also provides green mobility options for our guests, such as electric vehicle cabs and convenient charging stations within the property. Besides, we actively promote responsible dining by advising guests on portion sizes to minimize food wastage in our restaurants.

Additionally, The Orchid Hotel sources organic produce from our on-site kitchen garden, emphasizing a local, sustainable approach to food preparation.

Sandeep Kaul

Director of Operations Goa Marriott Resort and Spa

Panaji, Goa, India] –26th September 2023 – In 2023, the world commemorates World Tourism Day under the banner of “Tourism and Green Investment,” shedding light on the urgent call for increased and precisely directed investments in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals. The hospitality sector has united in a resolute mission, ardently championing both sustainability and progress, all while enlightening our cherished guests about these shared objectives.

Goa Marriott Resort and Spa’s commitment to sustainability is evident in our day-to-day operations. Recently on World Environment Day, we planted 190 saplings in and around our resort, mirroring its dedication to a greener world, one key at a time. “We have eliminated the use of plastic materials in our restaurants, opting for glass bottles and paper straws to minimize our environmental footprint.” Additionally, “we take pride in our on-site cultivation of coconut trees, using this sustainable resource in many of our dishes. We have proudly implemented a sustainable seafood program, source ingredients locally within 200km of Goa for our coffee shop, offer up to 30% plant-based options in in-room dining, and ensure our menu includes gluten-free and vegan choices, all contributing to our commitment to eco-conscious practices. By utilizing homegrown ingredients and minimizing plastic usage, we aim to not only provide exceptional experiences but also contribute to the preservation of our beautiful natural surroundings in Goa.

With Marriott Hotels, guests can be assured that every moment of their stay will be imbued with… Wonderful Hospitality. Always.

Peeyush Bhushan

Director of Food & Beverage JW Marriott Pune

JW Marriott Pune celebrated World Tourism Day by embracing the theme of the year, which highlighted the significance of millets.

We served our guests delicious millet-based dishes, showcasing their nutritional benefits and eco-friendly cultivation practices. World Tourism Day is an occasion to focus on various themes, fostering global events and activities to mark its significance.

Our commitment extends beyond the culinary experience as we aim to raise awareness about millets, encouraging their production and consumption. Additionally, we’ve witnessed a post-COVID-19 resurgence in travel, underscoring the importance of sustainable and healthy choices in tourism and dining.

Tanu Singh

Associate Director Marketing Communications & PR, Signum Hotels & Resorts

Signum Hotels has been promoting green initiatives as part of its commitment to sustainable tourism. We are dedicated to creating memorable experiences for guests while actively preserving the environment. As part of Tourism Day celebrations, we have organized several events across our properties to promote sustainable tourism. From picked-site clean-ups to nature walks, guests are invited to take part in activities that foster environmental consciousness.

We have also taken several green initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint. We have implemented measures to conserve water, and energy, and reduce waste. We also work with local suppliers and engage in fair trade practices.

We also embrace digitalization in our operations to reduce the use of paper by implementing online check-in procedures, electronic billing systems, and e-menus, among other digital solutions. By promoting such initiatives, Signum Hotels continues to inspire and encourage others to adopt sustainable tourism practices.

Nihaan Ibrahim

Assistant to Marine Biologist at LUX* South Ari Atoll

This tourism day, at LUX* South Ari Atoll, we would like to drive attention to responsible travel practices and share what we do to support the wellbeing of the unique nature of Maldives. Our group coral planting session is open for all guests to join and partake in our reef restoration efforts. Coral planting is critical to marine conservation and plays a vital role in rejuvenating reefs, supporting the remarkable diversity of local marine life. Through coral planting, we transplant coral fragments onto damaged reefs, giving them a chance to recover and thrive. This way we contribute to preservation of biodiversity, support sustainable fisheries, and fortify coastal resilience in the face of climate change.

Imit Arora

General Manager, Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre.

On this World Tourism Day, I am delighted to share the strides we made towards sustainable tourism and green investments. We are proud to be certified at the highest Level Four in the IHG Green Engage System, demonstrating our commitment to eco-conscious practices. From solar panels, LED lights to bulk bathroom amenities dispensers, we are reducing our waste footprint. Additionally, our partnership with NGO Sakha allows us to provide women driven E-vehicle services for our female travellers. We believe this change will contribute positively to our planet and provide our guests with a more eco-conscious and responsible stay. Ultimately, contributing to a more responsible and environmentally friendly travel industry. We invite all our guests and partners to join us in fostering a greener future for global tourism.

Shambhavi Singh

Director of Royal Heritage Haveli Jaipur

Our major focus is on food sustainability this year – from creating a menu that is seasonally inspired & predominantly locally sourced, to reducing food wastage with the aim of becoming a zero-waste kitchen in the near future.

The expansion of the hotel that is ongoing has been done keeping in mind the ancient techniques of restoration like airaish & promoting regional craftsmanship through our frescoed wall art. The furniture is all handmade, some restored & the rest locally sourced. The bathrooms are lined with blue pottery tiles.

Jaychandran

Vice President of Operations, Niraamaya Wellness Retreats

On World Tourism Day, Niraamaya Wellness Retreats proudly reaffirms its unwavering dedication to responsible travel and sustainability. In a world where conscious tourism is gaining increasing importance, we at Niraamaya are taking significant steps to ensure that our brand serves as a shining example of eco-consciousness and responsible tourism.

At the core of our initiatives is a strong focus on sustainability. We take great pride in offering organic, sumptuous, and farm-to-table dining experiences. This not only provides our guests with a unique and authentic culinary journey but also contributes to reducing our ecological footprint. Our team actively engages in a range of sustainability activities, including tree-planting initiatives, local education on soil and water conservation, clean-up drives, and more. These actions play a vital role in preserving the natural environment, raising awareness, and ensuring the pristine beauty of our surroundings.

Our commitment extends beyond environmental preservation; we are also passionate about conserving cultural heritage. Niraamaya wholeheartedly supports local communities in showcasing traditional arts, music, dance, and crafts. These centuries-old cultural expressions are integral to the local communities we serve, and we are dedicated to ensuring their preservation.

Furthermore, we proudly support social enterprises and charitable establishments, aligning our business goals with social responsibility. We understand that responsible travel goes hand-in-hand with supporting the well-being and growth of the communities we interact with.

On this World Tourism Day, Niraamaya Wellness Retreats reaffirms its dedication to responsible travel and green investment. We remain steadfast in our commitment to making a positive impact on both the environment and the communities we are privileged to serve.

S Sriram

General Manager Feathers, A Radha Hotel

Feathers hotel is replacing plastic water bottles with glass bottles and bottling our own water. This environmentally responsible initiative from our end aligns with our sustainability goals and has several positive impacts:

Reduction in Plastic Waste: By eliminating plastic water bottles, Feathers Hotel is contributing to the reduction of plastic waste. Plastic pollution is a significant environmental concern, and this change demonstrates a commitment to addressing it.

Promotion of Glass Recycling: Glass bottles are highly recyclable, and they can be reused multiple times. This switch encourages guests to recycle and promotes a more circular and eco-friendly approach to packaging.

Environmental Responsibility: The move to bottle your own water showcases the hotel’s environmental responsibility and dedication to sustainable practices. This can resonate positively with environmentally conscious travelers and guests.

Overall, this initiative by Feathers Hotel to replace plastic water bottles with glass bottles is a positive step toward sustainability and environmental responsibility. It aligns with the broader global efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote responsible tourism practices.