King's Business School and the Energy and Environment Alliance (EEA) are partnering to launch an executive education programme focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) measures in the hospitality sector. The programme, developed in consultation with over 40 senior hospitality leaders, aims to address the impact of COVID and energy price spikes, as well as the new IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards. These factors have provided the impetus for accelerated progress on environmental measures ahead of the global commitment to achieve net zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

Hotels and lodging have been identified as the least energy and water-efficient commercial buildings by the Urban Land Institute. The education programme emphasizes the challenges faced by leaders in reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Many hotels experienced high energy consumption even during low occupancy due to COVID-related issues, such as damp prevention and hygiene maintenance.

The programme will cater to the needs of hospitality sector leadership, including asset owners, brands, and franchises. Starting in September 2023, it will cover current and planned regulations, ESG reporting requirements, climate change, social impact, green financing options, and aligning consumer preferences with sustainable outcomes. Participants will develop personalized action plans to drive comprehensive change in their businesses.

This initiative aims to make the hospitality sector more attractive to investors through its focus on ESG credentials. The partnership will further develop with the creation of a complementary ESG course for general managers and hotel operating teams.

Giana Eckhardt, Vice Dean for Engagement and Executive Education at King's Business School expressed excitement about offering the programme to a sector with significant global impact and immediate opportunities for positive change. The programme will foster a network of proactive industry leaders equipped with the knowledge, connections, and ambition to drive sustainable business practices forward across the sector.