CSR and Sustainability

🌍 Coral Beach Resort Sharjah became the first hotel in the Middle East to sign the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism. Joining over 800 global tourism businesses, the UAE property commits to halving emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero before 2050. The declaration, initiated at the UN Climate Change Conference, highlights challenges for Gulf hotels in reducing carbon footprints amidst high energy costs and oil-based energy grids. Israel and Lebanon have no hotels on the signatory list.

🐢 On March 23, 2023, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru in the Maldives witnessed the hatching of Olive Ridley sea turtles, marking the first occurrence since 2015. Eggs laid on January 24 hatched, with hatchlings emerging on the beach. This event highlights the success of Banyan Tree's marine conservation efforts, led by its Marine Lab, which has operated for over 20 years, focusing on coral restoration, biodiversity monitoring, and environmental education. Olive Ridley turtles, classified as vulnerable, face threats from habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.

🛑 Radisson Hotel Group completed 272 hotel signings and openings in 2025, expanding in China and India's mid-scale segments. Radisson Blu remained Europe's largest upper-upscale brand with properties in 154 cities. Strategic moves included a partnership with Manchester City and opening of Radisson Hotel Cannes Seaside. In China, 170 hotels were signed and opened, with nearly 300 in the pipeline. Two net zero properties were opened in Manchester and Oslo, promoting sustainability. Growth in India reached 200 hotels.

📚 GCSTIMES employs a lifecycle-based approach to minimize environmental impact. Eco-design principles guide the use of renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable materials. Energy efficiency is prioritized, with cleaner energy sources and high-efficiency equipment. Packaging optimization and the shift to paper-based alternatives reduce transport emissions. Internal initiatives promote sustainability awareness through LED lighting, water conservation, and waste recycling. Recycling and reuse programs are expanding, with recovered materials reintegrated into new products to enhance circularity.

🌏 Dusit Hotels and Resorts, based in Bangkok, joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, emphasizing responsible global operations. Founded in 1949, Dusit now manages 290 properties in 18 countries, totaling over 11,800 rooms. Their "Tree of Life" program aligns with UN goals, focusing on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and community impact. Initiatives include solar energy installations, water conservation, and waste composting. Since 2010, Dusit has raised over THB 13 million for children’s surgeries through Dusit Smiles.

📍 Radisson Hotel Group, by 2030, plans to launch 100 net-zero hotels, up from pilot projects in Manchester and Oslo. On March 24, 2026, it was announced that the initiative expands across Europe and South Africa, with future expansions in Germany, Austria, and the Canary Islands. Independently certified by TÜV Rheinland, the strategy targets Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions through electrification and renewable energy. This approach addresses rising sustainability pressures and enhances guest engagement.

🏨 A week and a half ago, the author visited EAST Hong Kong, a lifestyle hotel by Swire Hotels, located in Quarry Bay. Highlights include mall access, a vibrant lobby, attentive staff, and a rooftop bar “Sugar.” The hotel emphasizes sustainability, modern design, and offers a fitness center and pool under renovation. Described as 'progressive luxury,' lifestyle hotels blend contemporary design, F&B, wellness, and cultural elements, appealing to guests and locals alike.

🗺 Radisson Hotel Group plans to roll out 100 verified net zero hotels by 2030, aiming to reduce dependency on fossil fuels amid oil price surges above $100 per barrel due to the Iran war. The initiative, highlighted before the 2026 International Hospitality Investment Forum in Berlin, includes successful pilots in Manchester and Oslo, launched in May last year. These hotels have shown increased revenue and high guest demand, emphasizing cost savings and risk mitigation.

💦 After two years of MGM Resorts International's $500,000 investment in a water conservation program, the Southern Nevada Water Authority projects 7 million gallons in annual water savings. The initiative, supported by enhanced rebates for employees, started on World Water Day 2024. Employees made water-efficient upgrades at home, aiding regional water conservation. MGM Resorts aims to continue promoting these efforts, with funding available until June 2027, enhancing sustainability across Southern Nevada.

🎶 In October 2025, Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, hit Jamaica, causing approximately $9 billion in damages and leaving thousands homeless. The Hard Rock Heals Foundation raised over $400,000 through the "Stay Strong Jamaica" initiative, supported by Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming, with a contribution of $100,000. Funds will aid housing, infrastructure, and humanitarian efforts via Jamaica's Promise. A benefit concert on January 2, 2026, in Hollywood featured Jamaican artists, raising further support.