ECO-FRIENDLY PRACTICES IN HOTEL MANAGEMENT

An Undergraduate Thesis
Presented to the Faculty of College of Business Accountancy
Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges – Marbel Inc.
Koronadal City

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of

Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management

GRETEL SHANE C. LUMAYAG

February 2024
 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Rationale

In a time when environmental issues and sustainability are becoming

more pressing, companies all over the world are under pressure to reconsider

their methods and adopt more environmentally friendly ones. With increasing

awareness of environmental impacts, tourists gradually desire to consume

products and services advocating environmental initiatives and attempting to

reduce adverse environmental impacts. Hotels have been under pressure from

tourists to implement eco-friendly practices to meet tourists’ desires. It is crucial

to enhance the hospitality industry, particularly hotels, to reduce the negative

environmental impacts. By adopting sustainable practices, hotels can not only

reduce their negative impact on the environment but also reap various benefits,

including cost savings, enhanced brand reputation, and improved guest. This

problem challenge the various aspects of hotel operations, from financial

constraints and consumer perception to regulatory compliance and supply chain

management. Understanding and addressing these challenges are essential for

hotels to effectively transition towards sustainability while balancing economic

viability and guest expectations. The goal of this study is to clarify the

significance, difficulties, and possible effects of integrating eco-friendly practices

into hotel management on the environment and the hospitality sector. In a recent

survey conducted in 2023 by GreenTravel Insights, a sampling of hotels globally

revealed a notable trend towards the adoption of eco-friendly practices, with 72%
of participating hotels implementing such initiatives (GreenTravel Insights, 2023).

This data underscores the increasing awareness and commitment within the

hotel industry to address environmental concerns.

Furthermore, a consumer survey conducted by Sustainable Stays in 2022

indicated a growing demand among travelers for eco-friendly accommodations,

where 68% of sampled respondents expressed a preference for hotels with

certified green practices (Sustainable Stays, 2022).

Sustainable housekeeping practices

emphasize the reduction of environmental harm through measures
such as water and energy
conservation, waste minimization, and the use of eco-friendly cleaning
agents. As hotels increasingly
position themselves as responsible stewards of the environment,
sustainable housekeeping emerges
as a cornerstone in achieving these aspirations. Beyond its
environmental merits, sustainable
housekeeping also intersects with operational efficiency, offering a dual
benefit to hotels (Broussard
et al., 2018). By optimizing resource usage, hotels can not only reduce
their ecological footprint b
Sustainable housekeeping practices
emphasize the reduction of environmental harm through measures
such as water and energy
conservation, waste minimization, and the use of eco-friendly cleaning
agents. As hotels increasingly
position themselves as responsible stewards of the environment,
sustainable housekeeping emerges
as a cornerstone in achieving these aspirations. Beyond its
environmental merits, sustainable
housekeeping also intersects with operational efficiency, offering a dual
benefit to hotels (Broussard
et al., 2018). By optimizing resource usage, hotels can not only reduce
their ecological footprint b
Sustainable housekeeping practices
emphasize the reduction of environmental harm through measures
such as water and energy
conservation, waste minimization, and the use of eco-friendly cleaning
agents. As hotels increasingly
 position themselves as responsible stewards of the environment,
sustainable housekeeping emerges
as a cornerstone in achieving these aspirations. Beyond its
environmental merits, sustainable
housekeeping also intersects with operational efficiency, offering a dual
benefit to hotels (Broussard
et al., 2018). By optimizing resource usage, hotels can not only reduce
their ecological footprint b
Sustainable housekeeping practices
emphasize the reduction of environmental harm through measures
such as water and energy
conservation, waste minimization, and the use of eco-friendly cleaning
agents. As hotels increasingly
position themselves as responsible stewards of the environment,
sustainable housekeeping emerges
as a cornerstone in achieving these aspirations. Beyond its
environmental merits, sustainable
housekeeping also intersects with operational efficiency, offering a dual
benefit to hotels (Broussard
et al., 2018). By optimizing resource usage, hotels can not only reduce
their ecological footprint b
Sustainable housekeeping practices emphasize the reduction of

environmental harm through measures such as water and energy conservation,

waste minimization, and the use of eco-friendly cleaning agents. As hotels

increasingly position themselves as responsible stewards of the environment,

sustainable housekeeping emerges as a cornerstone in achieving these

aspirations. Beyond its environmental merits, sustainable housekeeping also

intersects with operational efficiency, offering a dual benefit to hotels (Broussard

et al., 2018).

By optimizing resource usage, hotels can not only reduce their ecological

footprint but also realize cost savings. The adoption of energy-efficient

appliances, smart water management systems, and sustainable procurement

practices can contribute to operations and improved financial performance. This

integration of sustainability and operational efficiency positions sustainable

housekeeping as a strategic initiative with multifaceted benefits. While the merits

of sustainable housekeeping are evident, challenges such as initial investment

costs, resistance to change, and the need for staff training necessitate a nuanced

approach (Frey et al., 2021).

The research aims to understand the challenges and implications of

integrating eco-friendly practices into hotel management. Despite increasing

tourist awareness, there is a lack of in-depth exploration into the practical

difficulties faced by hotels during the implementation process. The study aims to

provide practical insights to guide hotels in navigating the complexities of

sustainable management, ensuring compliance with environmental demands and

fostering long-term sustainability and success in the evolving landscape of

responsible tourism. This deeper understanding is essential for the effective

implementation of eco-friendly practices.

Research Objectives

This study aimed to determine the Eco-friendly practices in Hotel

Management. The outcome of the study will serve as a guide in formulating

intervention plan.

Specifically, the researcher sought to answer the following questions:

1. To determine the eco-friendly practices in hotel management in terms of;

a. Energy Conservation

b. Waste Management

c. Water Conservation
 d. Sustainable Sourcing

2. To draw implications from the result of the study.

Review of Related Literature

This part presents the related literature and studies paralleled to this

study. This includes foreign and local literature and studies gathered from various

resources such as journals, books, newspapers, online resources, and other

publications.

Foreign Literature

According to the eco-friendly practices of star category hotels in Lucknow

and the challenges, they faced implementing green practices. The information

was gathered through a well-structured questionnaire from the hotel staff.

Garage disposal, sewage treatment plants, dual flush toilets, electronic key

cards, and energy-efficient lighting are common practices carried out in

Lucknow's star hotels. Initial investment costs for green setup are high, which is a

challenge for hotels implementing green practices (Esperanza Gil-Soto 2019).

In addition, this aimed to determine which sustainable hotel practices

guests prefer and what motivates them to participate. The study examined

sociocultural differences in respondents' willingness to pay more for an eco-

friendly hotel. In Mexico, tourists collected data revealed that management

should consider guests' sociocultural backgrounds and may have to educate

them on the advantages of balancing social conscience with guest service

expectations (Akram Atef Rawashdeh, 2021).

 Furthermore, the role of hotel water conservation and waste reduction

management in increasing hedonic and utilitarian values, as well as the influence

of such relationships on guest participation intention in green practices and

loyalty intention, with environmental concern serving as a moderator in the green

hotel context. Vietnam conducted a convenience sampling field survey. This

demonstrated that hotel water conservation and waste reduction practices

increased values and pro-environmental intents, with hedonic and utilitarian

benefits of hotel stays serving as mediators. Environmental factors also

moderated (Heesup Han 2018).

Moreover, in recent studies investigated the overall nature of

environmental protection, waste management, purchasing, energy use, and

conservation practices of hotels in Ankara, Turkey and conjointly explored the

extent of environmental protection practices therefore the building trade might

assess its position on environmental problems so that alternative interested

parties, together with teachers, will acquire contemporary data for a particular a

part of the planet. The study found that the policies and practices of Ankara

hotels typically lack attributes relevant to environmental protection and

conservation, which building managers principally lack the mandatory

environmental data and interest to fulfil the fundamental objectives of social and

environmental responsibility. it’s so necessary to develop an integrated system of

policy and observe that involves not solely the building management and

employees, however conjointly all parties involved with environmental protection

and property, and to re-evaluate and rethink national, local, and building policies

and coaching activities (Erdogan, et al 2018).

Sonya Graci and Kuehnel (2017) notes from various studies around the

world that through the concept of green hotel at least obtained savings in the use

of energy and water up to 20% garbage reduction up to 15%, improve the quality

of the surrounding environment, and increase employee motivation. Green

hotels, not only have the concept of keeping water conservation, reducing energy

use, and reducing solid waste production, but more widely contain contributing to

the environment, maintaining and developing the surrounding culture, and taking

an active role in the development of the regional economic community. The term

“green hotel” is pictured as a hotel that is committed to environmental

sustainability as efficiently as possible in using of energy, water and materials

related to service quality. Base on the above assumptions, itis quite clear that the

green hotel is a manifestation of the increasing. The concept of green hotel itself

is actually part of green tourism product, the chain of sustainable tourism

development which then rolled out in various eco-friendly concepts such as

green management, green building, green tourism and other green trends.

In addition, despite their rapid economic growth, emerging markets face

growing challenges posed by environmental pollution and degradation, which

cause serious health and social problems (Wang et al., 2018). For example, as

one of the most heavily polluted countries in the world, after a decade of efforts

to enhance environmental protection, in 2021 the average exposure to PM2.5 in

major Chinese cities is still five times higher than the safety limit recommended
by the World Health Organization. As a result, business entities face increasing

pressure from policy regulations and public monitoring to adopt green practices

and reduce their negative impact on the natural environment (Yang et al., 2019).

Furthermore, human self-fulfillment may increase the consequences of

climate change on ecologies. A growing global population with fast-changing

energy, water, and food consumption behaviors puts strain on ecological

processes and life-supporting services. The rising public consciousness of the

need for environmental protection has recently prompted the hospitality industry

to use environmentally conscious management practices along the route to

sustainability. Many hotels are committing to “eco-friendly” to lessen their

negative environmental impact. These green properties conserve water,

electricity, and solid waste while reducing expenses to protect the environment

(Abdou et al.,2022).

Also, the values contained in the spiritual leadership proposed by Pfeffer

(2017) are exciting and meaningful work that enables them to learn, develop, and

have competence and skills, meaningful work that gives a sense of purpose,

sense of belonging and positive social connection with coworkers, and the ability

to live in an integrated manner so that his work role and other roles are following

the nature of basis and identity as a human being. Employees’ expectations for

eco-friendly behavior are raised by leaders’ spirituality and support at work,

influencing how they form their values, develop their vision, and set goals.

Employees can deal with uncertainty and have the courage to create and
implement eco-friendly behavior by thoroughly understanding their organization’s

mission and purpose (Mubashar et al., 2020).

Local Literature

Rural tourism is currently one of the most dynamic segments of tourism

demand, and rustic accommodation is one of the most demanded. The attitude of

rural establishment managers has a decisive influence on the behavior of their

clients regarding ecological respect and stewardship of water and energy

(Sanchez et al., 2021)

The accommodation industry is becoming more and more intricate,

exposed by the increase of information and progressive technologies, ecological

degradation, pollution, clients' preferences, demands, and factors generating

more considerable instability in the worldwide economy (Javier & Elazigue,

2018).

Local Studies

Pirani and Arafat (2016) found that the factors contributing most

significantly to food waste generation included serving style and timing, types of

food served, and prediction accuracy of the number of expected customers. In

addition, they recommended a number of minimization strategies for food waste

in the hospitality sector. Based on their study, simple but effective strategies,

which involved the cooperation of the hotel or restaurant staff and the guests,

could lead to a drastic decrease in global food waste generation.

 According to Hanniffa and Cook (2017) reported that an environmental

credentials are one way to legitimize the actions of the corporation to reduce

legitimacy gaps between organizations and society. One way of lessening this

gap is by reporting activities to stakeholders and through additional disclosure,

and this reporting is becoming the norm in international hotel companies with

prominent links displayed on their websites. Eco-Hotels of the World support this

by pointing out that CSR has thus become an integral part of many hotels

group’s marketing strategy.

The accommodation industry makes a significant contribution to the

economy of Baler. However, there is a substantial increase in water

consumption, energy consumption, and solid waste consumption. Therefore, the

accommodation industry still needs changes, which can be implemented via

additional investments and technology transfer, enhancing business and

environmental sustainability. The LGU-Baler and accommodation industry may

adopt the proposed business operational plan (Gonzales, R.G. Jr. 2023).

Foreign Studies

According to Ku et al. (2017), the ability to adapt—i.e., to survive and

provide adequate organizational resources to cope with threats and take

advantage of opportunities—assumes vital importance in the scenario faced by

hotels and implies changes in client needs, higher expectations of value and

quality, and an increasingly competitive environment.

 Hotels face some obstacles to implement environmentally friendly

practices. For example, Chan's (2017) research revealed that with descending

order, lack of a sense of urgency, ambiguity of EMS standards, lack of qualified

verifiers/ consultants, conflicting guidance, and inconsistent support are the five

barriers that deter small and medium sized hotels in Hong Kong from adopting

and implementing an EMS.

When the hotels increase their environmental commitment level, this could

give competitive advantage by not only helping the destination work towards to

protect the destinations natural and built resources but also decreasing hotels'

cost and increase revenues by increasing performance level (Claver-Cortes,

Molina-Azorin, Pereira-Moliner, & Lopez-Gamero, 2017).

According to stakeholder theory, while green practices demonstrate a

firm’s social responsibility, customer reactions to green practices are influenced

by external environments and firm features (Cronin et al., 2017; Wei et al., 2017;

Yao et al., 2021).

Synthesis

Eco-friendly practices in hotel management encompass a range of

strategies aimed at reducing environmental impact while maintaining guest

satisfaction. These practices often include initiatives such as energy and water

conservation, waste reduction and recycling programs, sustainable sourcing of

materials and food, the implementation of green building standards, the use of
renewable energy sources, and promoting awareness among staff and guests

about environmental stewardship. By integrating these practices, hotels can not

only contribute to environmental sustainability but also enhance their reputation,

attract eco-conscious travelers, and potentially reduce operational costs in the

long run. Education and awareness play a crucial role in fostering a culture of

sustainability among both staff and guests. Hotels can conduct training sessions

for employees on eco-friendly practices, waste sorting, and energy-saving

techniques. They can also provide informational materials in guest rooms about

the hotel's sustainability initiatives, tips for reducing environmental impact during

their stay, and local eco-friendly attractions or activities.

In addition, hotels can collaborate with suppliers to source environmentally

responsible products and services, such as organic linens, locally sourced

organic food, and amenities produced with minimal environmental impact. By

leveraging their purchasing power, hotels can influence supply chains to prioritize

sustainability and support sustainable farming and manufacturing practices.

Integrating eco-friendly practices into hotel management requires a holistic

approach that addresses various aspects of operations, guest experience, and

environmental stewardship. By prioritizing sustainability, hotels can not only

reduce their ecological footprint but also enhance guest satisfaction, attract

environmentally conscious travelers, and contribute to the broader goal of global

sustainability.
 The related literature and studies show that a lot of hotels are doing eco-

friendly practices either local or international: this chapter discussed the

consumers beliefs about eco hotels.

Theoretical Framework

Two theories, Theory of Planned Behavior and Theory of

Environmentalism, contributed to the understanding of the present study focusing

on eco friendly practices in hotel management. The theory of reasoned action

(TRA) posits that an individual's behavioral intention is determined by their

attitude toward the behavior and subjective norms regarding the behavior.

Attitude represents the individual's positive or negative evaluation of performing

the behavior, while subjective norms reflect perceived social pressures to engage

or not engage in the behavior. The theory of planned behavior (TPB) extends

TRA by incorporating perceived behavioral control, which refers to the

individual's perception of their ability to perform the behavior. Within the realm of

green hotel selection, these theories provide valuable insights into how

individuals form intentions to choose environmentally friendly accommodations,

considering both their personal beliefs and social influences. Such theoretical

foundations have facilitated a deeper understanding of the psychological

processes underlying consumers' decisions in the realm of sustainable tourism

(Ulker-Demirel and Ciftci, 2020).

The Value-Belief-Norm (VBN) theory of environmentalism suggests that

individuals' pro-environmental behavior is influenced by their personal values,

beliefs, and perceptions of social norms regarding the environment. Strong

environmental values lead to a belief in the importance of environmental

protection and a greater likelihood of engaging in eco-friendly actions. Beliefs

about the effectiveness of individual actions and perceptions of social norms also

play significant roles in shaping environmental behavior. (Özekici, 2022).

 Conceptual Framework

The major concept of this study focused on the difficulties encountered by

Eco Friendly Practices in Hotel Management.

Figure 1. The Conceptual Framework of the Study

Contains the paradigm of the study. It consists of two (2) boxes, namely.

First the input box which contains the Eco-friendly practices in Hotel

Management. Second, box which contains the implications.

Significance of the Study

The study on Eco Friendly Practices in Hotel Management

would be beneficial to the following:

Hotel Owners/Managers. Implementing eco-friendly

practices can lead to cost savings, improved reputation, and

enhanced competitiveness for hotel owners and managers. It

allows them to demonstrate their commitment to environmental

sustainability while also attracting environmentally conscious

guests and satisfying regulatory requirements.

Employees. For hotel staff, engaging in eco-friendly

practices can foster a sense of purpose and pride in their work. It

offers opportunities for skill development, innovation, and

teamwork as they contribute to the implementation and

maintenance of sustainable initiatives.

Guests. For travelers, staying in eco-friendly hotels

provides an opportunity to align their values with their travel

choices. It allows them to minimize their environmental impact

while enjoying a comfortable and responsible hospitality

experience.
 Local Communities. Adopting eco-friendly practices in

hotel management can have positive effects on local communities

by reducing environmental pollution, conserving natural resources,

and supporting local economies through sustainable procurement

practices. It can also lead to increased community engagement

and collaboration on environmental initiatives, fostering a sense of

pride and shared responsibility among community members.

Future Generations. By promoting eco-friendly practices in

hotel management, individuals contribute to a healthier and more

sustainable planet for future generations. It helps mitigate the

impacts of climate change, preserve biodiversity, and create a

more equitable and resilient world.

Researcher. Researchers have the opportunity to delve

into a multifaceted field with implications for environmental

sustainability, business operations, and consumer behavior. By

investigating the adoption and impact of sustainable initiatives

within the hospitality sector, researchers can contribute valuable

insights into effective strategies for reducing environmental

footprints while simultaneously enhancing operational efficiency

and guest satisfaction.

Future Researchers. Future researcher can build upon this

foundation by conducting longitudinal studies to assess the long-

term effects of eco-friendly practices on hotel performance, as well

as exploring innovative approaches to further integrate

sustainability into all aspects of hotel management.

Definition of Terms

In order for the readers to clearly understand this study, the following

terms were defined Conceptually and Operationally in relation to the problem of

the study.

Environmental Stewardship. Conceptually, environmental stewardship

in hotel management reflects a commitment to acting as responsible caretakers

of the environment. It involves an understanding of the impact that hotel

operations can have on the ecosystem and a dedication to mitigating these

effects through conscious decision-making. Operationally, hotels engaging in

environmental stewardship implement specific measures, such as energy-

efficient technologies, waste reduction programs, and sustainable sourcing

practices. This commitment extends to regular environmental assessments and

the adoption of eco-friendly certifications to demonstrate accountability.

Sustainability. Conceptually, sustainability in hotel management is rooted

in the adoption of practices that support the enduring health of the environment.

The conceptual aspect emphasizes a balanced approach that meets present

needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own

needs, fostering a harmonious coexistence between the hospitality industry and

the ecosystem. Operationally, hotels embracing sustainability incorporate

renewable energy sources, implement water conservation measures, and

establish green building practices. Sustainable procurement, waste reduction

strategies, and community engagement initiatives further operationalize the

commitment to long-term environmental sustainability.

 Reducing Ecological Footprint. Conceptually, reducing the ecological

footprint in hotel management involves a dedicated effort to minimize the

overall impact on the environment. This conceptual principle recognizes the

interconnectedness of resource consumption, waste generation, and

environmental impact within the hospitality sector. Operationally, hotels focus

on reducing their ecological footprint through initiatives such as installing

energy-efficient technologies, adopting water conservation practices, and

implementing waste minimization programs. Sustainable transportation

options and carbon offset programs are also operational strategies to actively

diminish the environmental footprint.

Consumer Awareness and Preference. Conceptually, acknowledging

consumer awareness and preference in hotel management involves

recognizing the increasing consciousness among consumers, including

tourists, regarding environmental issues. Hotels aim to align with consumer

preferences for sustainable and environmentally conscious accommodations,

reflecting an understanding of the evolving demands of environmentally aware

travelers. Operationally, hotels respond to consumer awareness by

transparently communicating their eco-friendly initiatives through marketing

materials, providing green amenities, and offering sustainable practices such

as recycling programs and eco-certified options, creating a positive and

aligned experience for environmentally conscious guests.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Conceptually, viewing eco-

friendly practices as a manifestation of corporate social responsibility in hotel

management signifies a proactive commitment to contributing positively to the

environment and society. This conceptual principle extends beyond profit-

driven motives, emphasizing a broader responsibility to the well-being of the

community and the planet. Operationally, hotels engaging in CSR integrate

philanthropic activities, support local environmental initiatives, and foster

community engagement. The implementation of environmentally responsible

business practices, ethical sourcing, and transparent reporting further

operationalizes the commitment to corporate social responsibility in the

context of eco-friendly practices.

 Chapter ll

METHODS

This chapter discusses the methods of research used during the course

of study. It discusses the research design, research locale, sample population,

research instruments, data collection, statistical tool and ethical consideration.

Research Design