As travel experiences a global surge, IHG Hotels & Resorts is urging the hospitality industry to join forces and prioritise sustainability.

The travel and tourism sector employs millions globally and injects significant revenue into economies worldwide. With even more growth anticipated, IHG emphasises the need for sustainable practices to keep pace with this expansion.

Journey to Tomorrow: IHG charts a sustainable course

IHG has outlined its commitment to sustainability through its "Journey to Tomorrow" plan, a comprehensive strategy aligned with the United Nations' sustainable development goals. 

This plan focuses on three key pillars that work in tandem. 

First, it prioritises fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment within IHG, while also aiming to positively impact the lives of 30 million people globally. 

Second, the plan tackles environmental concerns by targeting a reduction in carbon emissions, waste and water usage across IHG’s vast hotel network. 

Finally, Journey to Tomorrow recognises the importance of strong communities. The plan includes supporting local communities where IHG hotels operate and collaborating with organisations tackling issues such as food poverty and natural disasters.

Collaboration is the cornerstone of success

While IHG Hotels & Resorts is dedicated to its own sustainability goals, the company recognises that individual efforts have limitations. 

It is therefore seeking partnerships throughout the industry to amplify its impact. 

For hotel owners, IHG is providing guidance and tools to effectively measure their sustainability performance. This empowers hotel owners to make informed decisions that benefit the environment and their businesses. 

For guests, the company is committed to offering eco-friendly options during their stay. This could include everything from water-saving showerheads to recycling programmes. 

Finally, IHG actively collaborates with industry organisations such as the World Travel & Tourism Council and the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. By working together, the industry can share best practices, develop common standards and create a more sustainable future for travel.

By fostering collaboration across the hospitality industry, IHG believes a significant and lasting impact can be achieved. 

Working together, the industry can ensure a sustainable future for generations to come, allowing travel to remain a source of joy, connection and economic prosperity while protecting the environment and the communities it touches.