In the evolving landscape of global tourism and hospitality, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the driving force transforming the industry. At THS, we’re not just witnessing this change; we’re actively shaping it. This blog dives into the profound shift towards environmental sustainability, urging industry professionals and aspiring students to be catalysts for positive change in our everyday lives.
The Green Wave in Hospitality
Sustainability is no longer optional; it’s driving industry evolution. With eco-conscious travellers seeking socially responsible accommodations, businesses recognise the need to weave sustainability into their core. The 88% consumer loyalty to eco-friendly commitments signals a shift beyond comfort to luxury experiences that are good for the planet. Luxury now encompasses experiences that are as good for the earth as they are for relaxation.
In the Classroom and Beyond
At THS, we take pride in shaping the next generation of industry leaders. Our commitment goes beyond textbooks – we equip students with the knowledge and ethical values needed to navigate and contribute to a sustainable future. Our student field trips to sustainable businesses in Australia showcase first-hand the impact of sustainable practices in the industry.
For instance, during our NCP field trip, students had the opportunity to visit the Park Royal Collection, which is well-known for having a ‘hotel-in-a-garden’ concept that incorporates energy-saving features and environmentally friendly practices and technologies within the hotel. For instance, the hotel uses fresh greens harvested in their garden to create mouth-watering dishes and installed 262 solar panels on the roof to generate clean, renewable energy.
Our journey extended to other sustainable businesses, including Kitchen by Mike, OzHarvest, Crystalbrook Vincent, Howard Smith and Taronga Zoo.
As part of the sustainability unit, THS lecturer Sandra Clark, took students to provide an enhanced learning experience by gaining first-hand experience from a sustainable business. Kitchen by Mike are waste warriors, from having 100% biodegradable takeaway lunch boxes to using their homegrown micro leaves in their dishes. Kitchen by Mike team is always searching for the next sustainable move.
The students and the team also visited Oz Harvest in Salisbury and immersed themselves in a zero-waste cooking class that shed light on the impactful work Oz Harvest does as Australia’s leading food rescue organisation. This experience heightened their awareness of the critical issue of food waste and how, as a society, we can make small yet meaningful changes to combat it.
Crystalbrook Collection embraces #ResponsibleLuxury, which protects the environment and creates sustainable experiences that enhance, rather than compromise the guest experience. All their menu items are locally sourced and sustainably grown. Moreover, they are the first hospitality group to achieve 100% waste-free bathrooms using biodegradable or recyclable amenities, ensuring no waste is left behind. There is much more, including 100% recycled wooden key cards to refillable water stations.
The educational adventure continued at Howard Smith Wharves, a beacon of innovation striving for a zero-waste future. They have driven an impressive 95% waste diversion from landfills across all HSW venues, and their vision does not stop there.
Taronga is committed to several ambitious targets such as Net Zero by 2030 with 70% reduction in absolute emissions, 100% renewable electricity before 2030, and many more divisional plans. Taronga also ensures responsible sourcing for animal welfare and incorporates Ecologically Sustainable Design principles in all new developments.
Our field trips significantly enriched the students’ understanding of sustainability and allowed them to view things from a customer’s and a business owner’s perspectives. They observed how sustainable businesses operate, including their services, management, and collaboration with local businesses. This first-hand experience showed them that being sustainable benefits the environment and improves the business’ image in the industry.
The Road Ahead
As we navigate the industry’s future, it becomes evident that sustainability is the key to our journey. The examples mentioned earlier represent only a fraction of what the industry is achieving. By fostering this culture within THS, we are equipping the upcoming generation to spearhead a meaningful change. The growing trend of sustainability is not just a passing phase but a transformative movement that shapes how we explore experience, and contribute to the world.
In conclusion, as the hospitality and tourism industry embraces sustainability, guests are no longer mere visitors. They are partners in a global movement towards a greener future. Every choice we make as travellers contribute to a more sustainable and responsible tourism industry, turning each stay or meal into a powerful endorsement for a better world.
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