BETHESDA, MD.—Marriott International, Inc. announced the launch of Connect Responsibly with Marriott Bonvoy Events (Connect Responsibly), a program designed to help meeting planners embed sustainability into their events at participating hotels in the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. Connect Responsibly plans to offer meetings and events customers access to detailed Meeting Impact Reports to measure the environmental impact of their events and select options to purchase carbon credits. The program is anticipated to go live at managed and franchised properties from participating brands globally by the end of October. “There is nothing like connecting in person, and doing so responsibly makes it that much...

INTERNATIONAL REPORT—With the rising presence and utilization of AI and its impact on the way society uses technology, it is no surprise that it is at the forefront of travel planning for Europeans. Key research conducted by MMGY, the authority on European traveler intelligence, unveils a shifting landscape in travel preferences according to its latest release of Portrait of European Travellers. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) has surged in popularity according to the new report, and sustainability remains one of the top five motivators for European travelers in 2024. This comprehensive research examining adult travelers from the U.K., France, Germany,...

NATIONAL REPORT—Parking revenues have increased by 23.1 percent from 2019 to 2023, based on a sample of U.S. properties in CBRE’s Trends in the Hotel Industry database, which is more than four times greater than the growth rate for total hotel revenues during that period. Not only is parking a growing source of revenue, but it is relatively profitable as well. In 2023, parking department profit margins for the CBRE sample were 61.3 percent of total department revenue, while the average profit margin for all other-operated departments was 58.7 percent at those hotels. While the contribution to revenues and profits is welcome...

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Zipcar and Delaware North Parks and Resorts announced a new partnership aimed at offering eco-conscious travelers a convenient and sustainable way to travel to and explore a local natural wonder. This fall, those who spot the 12 new, limited-edition Shenandoah National Park custom-designed Zipcars in greater Washington, D.C., can enter to win the Blue Ridge Retreat Giveaway, a retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The Blue Ridge Retreat Giveaway includes a free annual Zipcar membership, $300 in Zipcar driving credit and a two-night weekend getaway package at Skyland Resort in Shenandoah National Park. Delaware North Parks and Resorts,...

COPENHAGEN—There is a need to change the mindset of tourists and encourage green choices. Data show a large willingness as 82 percent say they want to act sustainably, but only 22 percent have changed their behavior. This is why Copenhagen’s official tourism organization has introduced CopenPay—a new initiative transforming green actions into currency for cultural experiences. It is Copenhagen’s ambition to inspire visitors to make conscious green choices and help bridge the large gap between the desire to act sustainably and their actual behavior. CopenPay rewards actions such as cycling, participating in cleanup efforts, or volunteering at urban farms with access...

MCDONOUGH, GA.—A new survey by ALPLA, a global leader in packaging solutions, uncovers critical barriers to the adoption of reusable products, pointing to a significant disconnect between consumer intent and action. Despite a widespread desire to incorporate reusable items into their daily routines, many are held back by cost and quality concerns. This builds on ALPLA’s previous research highlighting a strong generational shift in favor of sustainable packaging, showing that while the intent to adopt sustainable practices remains high, practical barriers such as affordability and perceived quality must be addressed. ALPLA’s latest findings shed light on an exciting opportunity for the industry to...

BELIZE CITY, BELIZE—The Belize Tourism Board announces the launch of “No Barriers Reef,” a pioneering initiative designed to make the breathtaking natural wonders of Belize accessible to every Belizean. This innovative project, which went live on Saturday, June 8, in honor of World Ocean Day, is a testament to Belize’s commitment to the appreciation and preservation of our oceans and natural heritage. In collaboration with The Zimmerman Agency, Belize introduced an innovative virtual reality (VR) experience this past March that immerses viewers in the stunning beauty of the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest living reef in the northern hemisphere. The primary goal of this initiative is to provide Belizeans,...

In the dynamic landscape of facility management, one principle stands as an unwavering cornerstone: sustainability. Far more than just a buzzword, sustainability has become an indispensable guiding principle for facility managers tasked with optimizing operations, minimizing environmental impact, and futureproofing their facilities. At the heart of sustainability lies a fundamental commitment to environmental stewardship. Facility managers play a pivotal role in minimizing resource consumption, reducing waste generation, and mitigating environmental impact. By implementing energy-efficient systems, adopting eco-friendly practices, and embracing renewable technologies, facility managers can contribute to the preservation of our planet for future generations. Over the past thirty years, corporations...

NEW ORLEANS—iSeatz, a leading provider of travel loyalty technology, has released its 5th annual State of Loyalty: Hospitality Rewards Report. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse and dynamic landscape of hotels, casino hotels, and vacation club brands, each with a unique portfolio of rewards and approaches to how their loyalty program members can earn and redeem points. What the analyzed hotels all have in common this year, according to the State of Loyalty: 2024 Hospitality Rewards Report, is that they are expanding the opportunities available to their loyalty members. In the aggregate, reward portfolios grew across nearly all categories compared to 2023, likely in...

NATIONAL REPORT—In a competitive hospitality market dominated by big hotel chains and the burgeoning presence of Airbnbs and home vacation rentals, small hotel owners must use strategies to distinguish their properties. For those committed to environmental sustainability, this ethos offers a compelling way to differentiate your hotel. Here are three ways to make your small hotel stand out by embracing green practices. Lean into Marketing Your Commitment to Sustainability In today’s eco-conscious marketplace, your green initiatives are powerful marketing tools. Highlighting your commitment to sustainability can set you apart. Use your website, social media platforms, and all marketing communications to tell...