A first steps guide for hoteliers towards enhanced sustainability has been taken up by more than 5,000 properties in 80 countries, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council.
Hotel Sustainability Basics is an independent verification scheme supervised by specialist assessors.
New partnerships have been agreed in tourism powerhouses such as Japan, the Philippines and India, the WTTC announced.
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The programme includes a 12-step criteria aimed at reducing carbon emissions, energy, water and waste management, and ensuring local communities benefit from hotel operations.
The Japan Tourism Board has partnered with WTTC to support the launch of Basics across the country.
A pilot programme sets the stage before extending the initiative to all Japanese accommodation providers.
Tajara Hospitality Group and Greenview have partnered with the global tourism body in the Philippines to introduce Basics.
The initiative is also set to expand across India with support from WTTC members The Indian Hotels Company, Radisson India, WTTC India Initiative, Hotel Association of India, and the country’s leading online travel agency MakeMyTrip.
Basics is now also available in multiple languages, offering comprehensive resources in English, French, Spanish and Japanese.
Independent hotel management companies and accommodation providers have also taken their first steps in sustainability by adhering to the Basics criteria.
Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa and Sanctuary Retreats by Abercrombie & Kent are entering their second year of verification.
Hotel Sustainability Basics has also gained endorsements from destinations, including the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, UAE, Azerbaijan, Mexico and Ecuador.
WTTC president and chief executive Julia Simpson said: “WTTC’s Hotel Sustainability Basics is a powerful testament to our collective effort in promoting sustainable practices in the hospitality industry.
“Surpassing 5,000 verified properties is more than just a milestone; it demonstrates travel and tourism’s readiness to embrace sustainability globally.
“This initiative unites hotels, industry partners, and sustainability standards to create a resilient, responsible, and planet-friendly future.”