Sustainability in the global hoteli

Sustainability in the global hotel
industry
Peter Jones
Business School, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, UK
David Hillier
Centre for Police Sciences, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, UK
Daphne Comfort
Business School, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, UK
Abstract
Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to provide an exploratory review of how the global hotel
industry publicly communicates its approach to sustainability.
Design/methodology/approach– The paper begins with an outline of the growing importance of
sustainability within the hospitality industry and a short discussion of the characteristics
of sustainability. The paper draws its empirical material from the most recent information on
sustainability posted on the world’s leading hotel chains’ corporate websites.
Findings– The findings reveal that while there is considerable variation in the information the
leading hotel chains provided publicly on their sustainability commitments and achievements, they
embrace a wide range of environmental, social and economic issues. More critically, the authors argue
that these commitments are driven more by the search for efficiency gains, that they are couched
within existing business models centred on continuing growth, and that as such the global hotel
industry is currently pursuing a “weak” rather than a “strong” model of sustainability.
Practical implications– The paper suggests that although the leading global hotel companies are
well placed to take a leading role in promoting sustainability, they may need to extend their
sustainability reporting and to introduce external assurance procedures.
Originality/value– The paper provides an accessible review of the sustainability agendas currently
being pursued within the global hotel industry and as such it will interest academics, students and
practitioners interested in both the hospitality industry and corporate sustainability strategies.
KeywordsHospitality, Sustainability, Global hotel industry
Paper typeResearch paper