The code red for nature and gas emissions has been raised for decades, however, as the deadline of the SDG goals approaches fast, a 2050 mindset has transformed all laggards into doers with GenerationZ-ers leading the change, says Marloes Knippenberg as part of a Panel on Why is COP26 important with some 20+ industry leaders sharing their viewpoints.
As world leaders flock to address the topic October-end, negotiate and make pledges and announce initiatives, it’s the Greta Thunberg’s of the world and the young generation that leads the actual changes and demonstrates daily how to live in compliance ensuring a Greener Planet. We are in the business of Travel and Human connections – hence green gas emissions from cutting down flights are not the focal points of our sustainability agendas. In addition to engaging the young professionals to help us drive a more sustainable business and operations, we need to ensure a future outlook for our industry rests on the Local supply chain, cutting down unnecessary supplies flown from the other hemisphere, FF&E that fits a sustainable- oriented property and have support with/for the local farmers, products and manufacturers.
Then policy papers would take back seat to more authentic green operations, and commitments will become actions with real impact on climate change. The industry collaborations – away from talks – will be led by the future generations, their innovative thinking and ideas. We have decided to support and join the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge led by Hotelschool The Hague for this reason – it brings together the brightest young minds in hospitality to come up with a new idea that is then presented to C-Suite decision makers from global hospitality Groups, who have the chance to invest in it and make it a reality. This roadmap has already come to fruition with Accor’s Chairman on stage a big hospitality forum in Dubai last month. The winning competition idea says it all: Community-centric co-living lifestyle opportunities based on local engagement that capitalize on the shared economic value. Isn’t this what our industry needs to implement more of? If you want to read all opinions on the topic, click here: https://www.hospitalitynet.org/panel/125000135.html
