The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has reached a significant milestone with over 5,000 hotels in more than 80 countries now adopting its Hotel Sustainability Basics (Basics) program. This achievement highlights the global commitment to enhancing sustainability in the hospitality sector.

The Basics program, designed to help hotels take initial steps toward sustainability, provides a 12-step framework to reduce carbon emissions, manage energy and water usage, and handle waste efficiently. It also emphasizes benefits for local communities. The program is independently verified by Green Key and SGS to ensure adherence to high standards.

The initiative has garnered widespread support, with notable hotel brands like Jin Jiang, Louvre Hotels Group, Choice Hotels, Radisson Hotel Group, and Accor participating. Recent expansions include partnerships with Japan’s Japan Tourism Board through its Japan Sustainable Tourism Initiative (JSTi), and similar efforts in the Philippines with Tajara Hospitality Group and Greenview, and in India with organizations such as The Indian Hotels Company Limited, Radisson India, and MakeMyTrip.

Travel + Leisure has joined as an official supporter, further broadening the reach of Basics across its extensive network of properties. To cater to a global audience, the program is now available in English, French, Spanish, and Japanese.

WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson stated, “WTTC’s Hotel Sustainability Basics is a powerful testament to our collective effort in promoting sustainable practices in the hospitality industry. Surpassing 5,000 verified properties is more than just a milestone; it demonstrates Travel & Tourism’s readiness to embrace sustainability globally.”

Independent hotel management companies and unique accommodations are also making strides in sustainability by adhering to Basics. Notable examples include Aleph Hospitality and Sanctuary Retreats by Abercrombie and Kent, which are now in their second year of verification.

Endorsements for the program have come from various global destinations, including the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, UAE, Azerbaijan, Mexico, and Ecuador. This widespread adoption signifies a pivotal step toward a more sustainable and responsible future in travel and tourism.

The WTTC remains dedicated to guiding the industry toward a greener, more sustainable path.