BEIJING—As one of the world’s largest industries representing 10 percent of the global economy, travel and tourism has become an integral part of the modern lifestyle. However, unsustainable travel practices, including the consumption of illegal wildlife products, are putting immense pressure on ecosystems and accelerating biodiversity loss. Tourism also contributes significantly to climate change, responsible for an estimated 6.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions in 2023. In ecologically sensitive areas, frequent human activities can lead to habitat destruction, environmental pollution and disturbance of wildlife. According to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)’s Living Planet Report 2024, there has been a 73 percent...

NATIONAL REPORT—In recent years, ESG—Environmental, Social, and Governance—has gone from buzzword to boardroom priority. But how does ESG look in action for global hotel brands? As sustainability moves from peripheral strategy to operational imperative, Hilton, Marriott, and Wyndham are leading the charge in distinct yet converging ways. This article dives into the ESG progress of these three international hotel chains between 2021 and 2023, highlighting trends, innovations, and opportunities hospitality executives should pay attention to. Whether you're managing a boutique property or overseeing a global brand portfolio, their strategies offer valuable insights into the future of sustainable hospitality. Environmental Progress: Emissions,...

BARCELONA, SPAIN—In line with its long-standing family values and environmental commitment, Hotel Indalo Park has taken a significant step toward sustainability by implementing an advanced Energy Management System (EMS). This digital platform allows for smart energy use based on real-time guest demand, optimizing the building’s overall efficiency. Aware of the tourism sector’s impact on climate change—according to Nature Climate Change (2018), tourism accounts for around 8 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, with hotels contributing approximately 1 percent—the Indalo Park team has taken action to reduce its footprint. Thanks to funding received from the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, supported by the European Union’s...

ATLANTA—ASHRAE successfully concluded its 2025 Annual Conference, held June 21 to 25 in Phoenix, Ariz. The conference drew 1,990 registered HVAC&R and building science professionals, as well as supporters from around the world to explore critical topics such as heat pumps, refrigerants, thermal energy storage, decarbonization strategies, workforce development and more. Attendees engaged in over 80 technical sessions spanning eight tracks. The most highly attended sessions included: Using Artificial Intelligence to Make You Irreplaceable LIVESTREAM: Gen AI in HVAC Industry: State of Art, Case Studies and Future Applications A Tale of Two Campuses: Energy Storage at Arizona’s Flagship Universities Generative AI...

INTERNATIONAL REPORT—Record-breaking heatwaves across Europe, North America, and Asia are compelling hotels to adapt their operations and infrastructure, as extreme temperatures strain cooling systems, alter guest expectations, and reshape seasonal travel patterns. As global temperatures soar, hotels are experiencing a shift in guest behavior and expectations. Travelers are placing increased value on climate control, energy efficiency, and wellness features such as shaded outdoor areas, pool access, and air-conditioned public spaces. In southern Europe, where summer temperatures have exceeded 45°C (113°F), hotels without modern air conditioning systems are facing booking declines or cancellations, particularly from international guests unaccustomed to such high...

NATIONAL REPORT—Operating sustainably is no longer just an option for businesses; it has become a strategic solution in a competitive world. With global energy demands skyrocketing and environmental concerns reaching new heights, companies are under increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact while still achieving financial success. Implementing energy-efficient practices allows companies to reduce costs, improve operational efficiency, and contribute to a healthier planet. By implementing these strategies to make your business energy conscious, you can become a leader in sustainability while achieving long-term growth and a competitive advantage. Perform an Energy Audit Conducting an energy audit can identify inefficient systems, machinery,...

LONDON—As Travel & Tourism enters the height of the summer season, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched a new report calling for a more balanced approach to managing tourism in popular destinations. While overcrowding is often seen as a tourism problem, many of the real pressures come from deeper issues such as underinvestment in infrastructure, poor planning, and fragmented decision-making. These challenges affect both residents and visitors and need joined-up solutions. Travel & Tourism supports one in every 10 jobs and nearly 10 percent of global GDP and is set to support one in three new jobs over...

SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA—June marks the celebration of Environment Day, a time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our natural resources—a mission that should guide our daily lives, especially when we travel in search of breathtaking landscapes and new flavors. All the wonders a destination has to offer deserve to be met with respect. Being a mindful traveler does not mean giving up comfort. On the contrary, it opens the door to authentic and fulfilling experiences that contribute to personal growth. That is why, with the support of Marriott Bonvoy hotels, we invite you to discover some initiatives that promote...

DALLAS—Sheraton Dallas announced a significant upgrade in building management systems with adaptation of new, state-of-the-art Direct Digital Control (DDC). This investment underscores the hotel’s commitment to enhancing guest comfort, operational efficiency, and sustainability. Sheraton Dallas Hotel is investing $1.7 million in the hotel’s conference center heating and cooling controls and air handler equipment. The investment will serve to improve air cooling and heating regulation and air quality in the meeting space for customers. As part of this initiative, air handlers and air damper controllers will be renovated. New control valves, heating coils and thermostat/room sensors, along with additional piping, will play...

ORLANDO, FLA.—Hilton Grand Vacations Inc., the premier vacation ownership and experiences company, has yet again been ranked among the top 100 companies on Dave Thomas Foundation’s “Best Adoption-Friendly Workplaces” list, which honors organizations that support its employees in building their families through adoption and foster care. For the sixth consecutive year, HGV leads in the hotel and travel industry on the Foundation’s “Best By Industry” list. “It’s an incredible honor to be recognized once again by the Dave Thomas Foundation for our exceptional adoption assistance benefits,” said Mark Wang, CEO of Hilton Grand Vacations. “This award underscores our unwavering commitment...