Reflective Journal

5.4: Discuss issues related to sustainable development in tourism and hospitality industry

Over the past several decades, hoteliers have turned their focus to the importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry as it relates to hotel development and operations, including the environmental, economic and social impact. Sustainability is one of the most important issues currently facing our world. The hospitality sector has historically had a dramatic environmental impact through energy and water consumption, use of consumable and durable goods, and solid and hazardous waste creation. Hotels consume energy for HVAC operations, lighting, fuel and other power needs. Water is used for bathrooms, F&B, and laundry, as well as other general operations (irrigation, cleaning and maintenance). Waste is generated by the disposal of paper, batteries, bulbs, furniture, equipment, appliances and more.

Economically, myths include the ideas that green operation is more expensive and that guests are not interested in sustainability. In fact, according to Cornell University’s Center for Hospitality Research, the reverse is true for both. Recent advances in technology related to renewable sources of energy (solar, geothermal, wind, etc.) have improved the economics of using these kinds of alternative energies at the property level. On the social front, there has been a remarkable shift in recent times, as demonstrated by corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, as well as the green buildings for new development projects. Cornell also offers educational programs to inform and drive discussion and critical thinking around significant industry issues like the global challenges of sustainability.

Sustainable tourism focuses on human activity while preserving natural ecosystems and its maintenance for future generations without compromising tourist satisfaction. Many locations greatly rely on the tourism industry and its viability. It is understood that creating a positive experience for the visitors may have a heavy economic impact. The emphasis is placed on providing an enjoyable experience for the visitors as long as they leave local customs and natural resources unblemished. Tourists are expected to accept the local way of life and respect the area’s cultures. The ultimate goal is to promote understanding and tolerance between different civilizations from around the world.

The objective of the water vision is to move from where we are today to where we need to be to meet future water need and ensure the sustainable use of water. This exercise involves a process of study, consultation and promotion which will develop knowledge on what is happening in the national water sector and on trends and developments outside the water sector that may affect future water use. Based on this knowledge produce a consensus on a vision for water for the year 2025 to be shared by water sector specialists and decision makers in the government, the private sector and civil society.

The set of initiatives that need to take place in order to achieve the key objectives of the vision is evaluated based on the four challenges towards a better water future which are managing our water resources efficiently and effectively, moving towards integrated river basin management, translating awareness into political will and capacity and moving towards adequate, safe and affordable water services as will be fit develop nation status by 2020.

The action for a better water future are also determined based on milestone and targets that they have to do with institutional and legal aspects, participatory approach in the decision making process, development of innovative technologies, efficient use of water resources, extensive research and development, shift from water supply to water demand management, integrated water resources management, promotion of water awareness and water education.

  

HVAC operation may harm our earth because solar radiation reaches the earth atmosphere and some of this is reflected back into space. The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the earth surface. When the sun energy reaches the earth atmosphere, some of it is reflected back to space and the rest is absorbed and re-radiated by greenhouse gases. Greenhouse gases include water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, ozone and some artificial chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

The absorbed energy warms the atmosphere and the surface of the earth. This process maintain the earth temperature at around 33 degrees celsius warmer than it would otherwise be allowing life on earth to exist. The rest of the sun energy is absorbed by the land and the oceans, heating the earth. Heat radiates from earth towards space. Some of this heat is trapped by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, keeping the earth warm enough to sustain life.

Human activities such as burning fossil fuels, agriculture and land clearing increasing the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. This is trapping extra heat and causing the earth temperature to rise.