by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 12:35 PM ET, Mon March 4, 2024
The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Hotel Sustainability Basics program has reached a milestone number of hotels joining the initiative, with over 1,700 hotels verified across 70 countries.
The announcement was made at ITB Berlin. Major hotel groups from destinations like France, China, Mexico, India, Germany, South Africa, Philippines and Norway have helped further the cause of increasing sustainability in hotels worldwide.
One such brand is Jin Jiang, which offers over 10,000 hotels, as well as Louvre Hotel Group, Choice Hotels and Radisson Hotel GRoup. Non-hotel brands joining the program include Intrepid, British Airways Holidays, HBX Group, WebBeds and Abercrombie & Kent.
The independent global sustainability verification program is overseen by Green Key and SGS. Hotels of all sizes follow a singular 12-step program aimed at reducing carbon emissions, promoting conservation and focusing on uplifting local communities.
“Our goal is to have a globally recognised trademark that shows customers at a glance, that a hotel is supporting the planet by saving energy, cutting plastics, protecting nature, and supporting their local community. It is a win-win,” said Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO.
“We launched the scheme only a year ago and the uptake has been incredible. 70 countries have signed up with over 1,700 properties verified with a long waiting list. It will bring lasting change," Simpson continued.
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