Thursday, May 23, 2024
IHG Hotels & Resorts calls for industry-wide collaboration, reinforcing its commitment to responsible business practices.
The travel and hospitality sector is a cornerstone of the global economy, providing one in 10 jobs and contributing over $7.7 trillion to the world’s GDP. By supporting local communities, it enables economies to flourish. The industry is expanding, with over one billion international travelers last year, and even more expected in the future.
The enduring appeal of travel, whether for leisure, business, or a mix of both (a growing trend among “blended” travelers), underscores its human significance. Traveling to connect with family and friends and create lasting memories is a fundamental part of our humanity.
Given its vast scale, the hospitality industry has a significant opportunity to positively impact the world. However, this comes with the challenge of adapting our infrastructure to be more sustainable, ensuring growth is achieved responsibly.
At IHG Hotels & Resorts, we prioritize this challenge. For years, our commitment to caring for people, communities, and the planet has defined us. This ethos is why we proudly support Vision 2045.
With a global portfolio of over 6,300 hotels, we have a unique opportunity to enhance the lives of millions daily, bolster local economies, and promote prosperity while acting as a positive force within communities. We also recognize the growing expectations from hotel owners, guests, colleagues, and investors regarding the relationship between business and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.
Central to our efforts is “Journey to Tomorrow”—IHG’s 2030 responsible business plan, which aligns with our purpose of True Hospitality for Good and the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. This plan includes commitments to foster a diverse and thriving culture, improve the lives of 30 million people, and protect our planet by reducing carbon emissions, waste, and water usage.
While we are proud of the strides we’ve made, as highlighted in our annual Responsible Business Report, we acknowledge that a single company cannot drive change alone. Achieving a net positive impact requires a collective effort, and we are committed to collaborating with our hotel owners by providing them with the necessary guidance and tools to measure sustainability metrics.
Our commitment extends to our guests by offering more sustainable choices during their stays. Collaboration with expert organizations is crucial, and we support those responding to natural disasters, delivering skills training, and addressing food poverty worldwide.
To drive large-scale change, cooperation among businesses, trade bodies, and governments is essential. We actively participate in these efforts, coordinating with the World Travel & Tourism Council and supporting the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance.
As IHG and the industry continue to grow, so does the potential to make a meaningful, sustainable impact. By working together responsibly, we can create lasting positive change for future generations.
Thursday, May 23, 2024
Thursday, May 23, 2024
Thursday, May 23, 2024
