Season 3 (Episode 4): Sustainable Business Practices in Hospitality Industry with Ian Lin - a podcast by CUS Sustainability

"Because a lot of the benefits that come out of these ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) implementation are cost savings"

Curious to understand how hotels and other hospitality businesses use ESG implementation to save costs in the long term. Join us in our conversation with Ian Lin from Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. As an ESG analyst at Four Seasons, Ian will uncover the approaches that his company uses while implementing the ESG principles in their day-to-day business with their customers and partner vendors. In this opportunity, Ian will also explain how he got into this position and how his passion for sustainability developed during his undergraduate degree. Can’t wait to hear more from Ian Lin. Tune in to our podcast now!

******************************************************************

"NEW GREEN HORIZON"

According to Skift research, 83% of global travelers believe sustainable travel is critical. In addition, 73% of travelers would prefer accommodations that have implemented sustainability measures, according to Booking's Sustainability 2021 Report. Of those surveyed, 61 percent said the pandemic has made them want to travel in a more sustainable way in the future. But that's not all. According to new research by Futtera in the US and UK, 88% of consumers want brands to help them improve their environmental and social footprint.

These staggering numbers underscore how important it is for hotels to develop strategies around sustainability. As we move toward a more aware and environmentally conscious consumer image, hotels must be able to adapt by offering more sustainable travel opportunities.

In addition, the pandemic has raised environmental awareness and is seen as a catalyst for changing some consumption patterns that may impact the environment in the medium to long term. An example of this awareness can be seen in Venice today.

Before the pandemic, the Italian city welcomed as many as 80,000 visitors a day, according to CNN. Il Gazzettino, Venice's local newspaper, also reports that the number of tourists exceeds 50 percent of Venice's 50,000 residents. In the wake of the 2020 tourism meltdown, Italian officials have announced plans to charge tourists to enter Venice in an effort to curb the onslaught of tourists and day-trippers on the city. They have also banned large cruise ships from entering Venice's waters.

In addition, Google has recently launched a number of tourism sustainability initiatives for hotels to participate in. Starting in September 2021, hotels that meet the sustainability standards of independent organizations such as Green Key or EarthCheck will have an eco-certified badge next to their name in searches at google.com/travel.

Further episodes of Chasing Sustainable Business

Further podcasts by CUS Sustainability

Website of CUS Sustainability