Author Article by Raoof Dhanani, MD, Sayaji Hotels. 

The travel seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22 were almost lost in the pandemic. The hotel industry is quite hopeful this year.

With more travel happening, bookings for business and conferences are on the rise and with the number of travellers increasing, the strain on environment is increasing too. Only sustainability can help reduce this burden. Sustainability is one of the fastest growing trends in the MICE industry and plays a vital role in business conferences that have started looking very different post-pandemic. The significance of sustainable events lies in preservation of the nature for wellness and well-being of the guests, employees and locals. These events minimise negative impacts on the environment. 

Some sustainable practices followed by Sayaji Hotels are avoiding vinyl banners at venue entrance, usage of LED screens for presentation instead of printed brochures and leaflets, reduction in food wastage by getting visitors dietary requirements well in advance before the event, using reusable tableware and dishes, minimal use of plastic etc. Our hotels serve sustainable food and beverages by offering organic locally grown food and natural fruit juices and soups during the event. The companies organising such events must encourage visitors to hold all events in similar fashion.

Sayaji Hotels is also working together to ensure green practices and reduce carbon footprint. Our hotels follow environment-friendly methods to reduce waste and conserve water. Careful selection of local food products, creating a green team and staff training are followed at our hotels. All events are carefully planned and executed. Our event planners instruct us to follow energy management system, turn off lights when not required, close/ open the curtains to reduce the need for heating/ cooling the event venue etc. 

The future depends on sustainable work we do today. Sustainability improves quality of our lives and leads to reduction in long-term energy cost. It provides innumerable benefits to business and individuals like minimising costs, increasing productivity and employee retention to mention a few. 

Like the Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and development of North East Region said recently: “Sustainable and responsible tourism is the way forward and the Government of India is working in this direction. The Government and the industry are exploring ideas, solutions and strategies to face the environment and societal challenges.”

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