Hotels in major destinations across Europe, Africa, the Americas and Asia-Pacific have adopted Basics, and the program continues to receive global support with new partnerships in tourism powerhouses such as Japan, the Philippines and India.
Designed to guide hoteliers on their initial steps towards greater sustainability, Basics is an independent verification programme, overseen by renowned assessors Green Key and SGS, ensuring rigorous standards and credibility.
The program empowers hotels of all sizes with a comprehensive 12-step approach aimed at reducing carbon emissions, energy, water and waste management, and ensuring local communities benefit from hotel operations.
Leading hotel brands including Jin Jiang, one of the world's largest hotel groups, European giant Louvre Hotels Group, Choice Hotels, Radisson Hotel Group and Accor have adopted Basics.
The Japan Tourism Board has partnered with WTTC through its Japan Sustainable Tourism Initiative (JSTi) to support the launch of Basics nationwide. A pilot programme lays the groundwork before extending the initiative to all Japanese accommodation providers.
In the Philippines, Tajara Hospitality Group and Greenview have partnered with the global tourism body to launch Basics through its annual sustainable hospitality event PhilHost.
Basics will also be expanded across India with the support of WTTC members The Indian Hotels Company Limited, Radisson India, WTTC India Initiative, Hotel Association of India and the country’s leading online travel agency MakeMyTrip.
Travel + Leisure is now an official sponsor helping to leverage Hotel Sustainability Basics across its portfolio of more than 245 properties.
To meet international demand, Basics is now also available in multiple languages, offering comprehensive resources in English, French, Spanish and Japanese.
Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, said: “WTTC’s Hotel Sustainability Fundamentals are a powerful testament to our collective effort to promote sustainable practices in the hospitality industry.
“Surpassing 5,000 verified properties is more than a milestone – it demonstrates the travel and tourism industry’s willingness to embrace sustainability globally. This initiative brings together hotels, industry partners and sustainability standards to create a resilient, responsible and planet-friendly future.”
Independent hotel management companies and unique 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, Sanctuary Retreats by Abercrombie and Kent, luxury African safari lodges, among others, are now entering their second year of verification.
Hotel Sustainability Basics has also garnered endorsements from destinations around the world, including the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, United Arab Emirates, Azerbaijan, Mexico and Ecuador.
This milestone marks a decisive step for the travel and tourism industry. The world tourism body remains committed to leading the sector towards a more sustainable and responsible future.
Source: WTTC.