Are You Ready for 2017?
2017 has been designated as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.
According to the World Tourism Organization, “this decision follows the recognition by global leaders at the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) that “well-designed and well-managed tourism” can contribute to the three dimensions of sustainable development, to job creation and to trade.”
Sustainable tourism development requires commitment – participation from ALL stakeholders, with the goal to maintain satisfaction from tourists, while raising awareness and creating a meaningful experience.
There can be no doubt that the corporate social responsibility programmes of large hotel groups have a substantial reach and impact on the local and global environment and upon surrounding communities world-wide. But the collective efforts of smaller scale establishments are no less significant.
Has your facility created and/or reviewed your CSR program of late?
Here are a few things to consider:
Consider your strengths: It can start with small moves - install energy-efficient lighting, water-saving equipment or even soap and shampoo dispensers. These are quick to implement, are easy on the bottom line and are practical, everyday solutions.
Overcome the obstacles: Yes, time to commit to the initiative and the financial resources to see it through can (and, in many cases, ARE) the obstacles to overcome. It can be de-motivating to a team who wants to create change but then finds out that the funds are not there. But there are several articles written out there that prove that these programs not only save staff time in the long run, but reduce your overall operational costs.
Your facility may have to start from scratch, but your plan doesn’t have too: Green Key Global provides members with the tools and templates to create plans and policies. The internet is FULL case studies that can assist in developing the right program for your facility.
Be recognized for your efforts – GET CERTIFIED: Both Green Key Eco-Rating & Green Key Meetings were designed to help you discover where your property is on the sustainable scale now, what changes (small and large) can be done to move the needle, and help market your properties’ initiatives to both the independent traveller, and to the business group market.
Are you ready for 2017? Join Green Key Global today!
