CSR and Sustainability

I was recently at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif., with my teenage daughter watching singer Noah Kahan play the biggest show of his life. An estimated 56,00 people were…

This article was written by Lodging Magazine. Click here to read the original article Photo Credit: Florida International University FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida—The South Florida chapter of the Hospitality Sales and…

This article was written by Lodging Magazine. Click here to read the original article WASHINGTON, D.C.—The AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), today…

Key Takeaways Airbnb is investing $1 million in environmental protection initiatives across Washington State—the company's largest commitment to Washington communities to date. Funding includes donations to local nonprofits Washington’s National Park Fund and Trout Unlimited, a partnership with Leave No Trace, and an investment to support climate resilient forests through EFM and the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust on the Olympic Peninsula and western Washington State. To mark the commitment, Airbnb is launching a volunteer incentive starting National Park Week: Washingtonians who volunteer with Washington’s National Park Fund will receive $100 in Airbnb credit. ISSAQUAH, WA — Airbnb today announced a $1 million investment to support environmental protection nonprofits and projects across Washington state, marking the company’s largest community commitment in Washington to date. The funding includes donations to local environmental and conservation nonprofits through the Airbnb Community Fund, a partnership to advance responsible recreation, and investments to support climate resilient forests on the Olympic Peninsula and across the Greenway National Heritage area. This historic investment reflects Airbnb’s deep commitment to the communities and natural spaces that make Washington so special. It also shows what’s possible when the private sector and nonprofits come together—showing up for our communities in meaningful ways and safeguarding the places that travelers and locals cherish alike. Janaye Ingram, Director of Community Investments and Sustainability for Airbnb Washington’s natural landscapes are central to our economy, our quality of life, and the communities that depend on them. This commitment will help strengthen conservation efforts across the state, support our parks and public lands, and preserve these places for future generations. Dave Upthegrove, Washington Commissioner of Public Lands Airbnb’s investment will support a diverse range of local environmental initiatives across the state: Airbnb Community Fund The Airbnb Community Fund is a $100M global initiative intended to help strengthen the places and communities Airbnb hosts and guests call home. In Washington state, Airbnb hosts helped direct over half a million dollars in funds to the following organizations: Washington’s National Park Fund: Supporting the preservation and protection of Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. Trout Unlimited: Restoring waterways and habitats that sustain healthy fish populations and local ecosystems in places like the Olympic Peninsula. A Partnership to Promote Responsible Recreation Leave No Trace is a nonprofit that works to protect nature, including developing the outdoor ethics guides promoted by Washington State Parks and the Washington Trails Association. Airbnb’s support is making it possible for Leave No Trace to bring its nationally recognized Spotlight stewardship program to the City of Issaquah, Washington, while also partnering with Washington-based Airbnb hosts to integrate Leave No Trace education into host’s listings. Together, we’re helping ensure that visitors have the knowledge and tools to enjoy nature responsibly, protecting Washington’s extraordinary natural landscapes for everyone to enjoy. Sustainable Forestry Investments The investment also includes two additional organizations supporting reforestation, conservation of green spaces, and other sustainability programs in Washington State. Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust : a nonprofit that aims to enhance and conserve

🌳 Forest bathing, or "shinrin-yoku," gained global recognition from the 2000s, particularly by the 2010s and 2020s, in the luxury-wellness and travel sectors. This practice involves engaging with nature using the senses, providing a high-value experience with minimal investment. Its appeal grew during the pandemic due to increased outdoor appreciation and stress concerns. Unlike active sports, forest bathing is accessible and non-medicalized, offering a restorative experience in nature's tranquility.

💡 GCSTIMES has completed a rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) project at its headquarters. This installation is expected to produce approximately 351 kWh of electricity per day, equivalent to the annual consumption of 43 households. The solar power will supplement grid electricity, boosting renewable energy usage. The project aligns with GCSTIMES' broader sustainability initiatives. Since 2011, GCSTIMES has advanced sustainable materials and clean energy, supporting operations and reducing emissions. Future plans include monitoring the system's performance and self-consumption rates.

📍 In 2025, the National Park Service recorded over 323 million recreational visits. Booking.com found 60% of travelers are interested in wellness retreats. A 2025 survey noted 69% of Gen Z travelers favor hotels with social opportunities. Additionally, 73% of global travelers aim to support local businesses, with sustainability a priority for 91% of Gen Z travelers. Hoteliers are adapting by promoting local culture, community connections, and environmental responsibility.

🍳 Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), collaborating with Tata Steel Foundation and supported by the Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad, conducted a 10-day culinary workshop for 20 tribal home cooks. Representing 12 communities from 8 Indian states, 70% women, they received training in culinary skills, hygiene, and entrepreneurship. Over 70 tribal cooks from 15 tribes across 10 states have been trained since the initiative started, highlighting cultural preservation and empowerment. IHCL operates 360 hotels globally.

🌏 In 2024, Chilean Patagonia saw 400,000 international tourists, a 17.7% increase from 2023. Tourism comprises 11% of employment in the Magallanes Region. The region faces challenges like limited infrastructure, high costs, and workforce issues. A white paper, "The Future of Tourism in Chilean Patagonia," suggests three scenarios: volume-driven, premium but unequal, and stewardship. The stewardship model promotes sustainability, local participation, and equitable benefits, aiming for long-term economic and environmental resilience.

🌊 Waterfront hotels are embracing Blue Mind, a concept by Wallace J. Nichols, emphasizing the cognitive benefits of proximity to water. Research shows that both water and wood can induce relaxation, evidenced by increased parasympathetic activity. In hospitality, wooden key cards symbolize this connection, linking guests to nature. GCSTIMES, since 2011, leads sustainable innovation, offering eco-friendly products like custom key cards. By integrating natural materials, hotels can enhance guest experiences and foster a deeper bond with the environment.