Jin Jiang, Leading Hotel Giant in China, Embarks on Hotel Sustainability Basics Journey with WTTC

This collaboration emphasizes the pivotal role of sustainability in meeting the changing demands of travelers and preserving our planet.

The announcement was made during the inaugural visit of Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC, to China. The meeting took place in Shanghai, where she met with Mr. Simon Zhang, President of Jin Jiang International.

The Hotel Sustainability Fundamentals initiative was conceived in response to a resounding call from leading global hotel brands. Its objective is to establish fundamental sustainability criteria that all accommodation providers, encompassing hotels, guesthouses, and tourist lodgings, must meet as a baseline standard, irrespective of their size.

Sustainability is an urgent global concern, and this initiative represents a significant stride towards attaining a more sustainable and inclusive future in the hospitality sector. Destinations, industry associations, travel agencies, and investors endorsing this initiative are heeding the worldwide call for responsible and equitable development in the realm of hospitality.

For Jin Jiang, a major player in China's thriving hospitality sector, boasting over 10,000 hotels, sustainability is an intrinsic commitment aligned with the company's vision for responsible expansion. It recognizes that sustainability is not merely an alternative but an integral component of delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.

As part of its sustainability endeavors, Jin Jiang has embarked on various initiatives encompassing energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and the implementation of eco-friendly practices throughout its establishments. The company's dedication to sustainability mirrors its role as a conscientious corporate citizen within China's flourishing tourism sector, serving as an exemplary model for others.

The ongoing advancement of the Hotel Sustainability Fundamentals initiative in China, bolstered by key stakeholders such as SGS, reflects the growing dedication to sustainability within the country's hospitality industry.

SGS, renowned for its expertise in inspection, testing, and certification services, has played a pivotal role in verifying and validating the sustainability efforts of hospitality providers, including prominent entities like Jin Jiang.

Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC, remarked:

“We are thrilled to welcome Jin Jiang as partner in our Hotel Sustainability Basics initiative. Sustainability is of paramount importance for China and its travellers.

“As we gather here in this beautiful country, it's evident that embracing sustainable tourism practices is crucial for preserving our planet and delivering exceptional experiences to travellers.

“This initiative empowers hotels to make sustainable choices while meeting the evolving expectations of travellers. It's about driving positive change, and Jin Jiang's commitment is a testament to their dedication to creating a more sustainable future for the hospitality industry.”

Mr. Simon Zhang, Chairman of Jin Jiang Hotels, declared:

“As the pioneering supporter of WTTC's Hotel Sustainability Basics and the driving force behind its implementation in China, Jin Jiang Hospitality is steadfast in its commitment to high-quality development, viewing sustainability as the pathway forward, with ESG principles serving as our guiding foundation. Our dedication to this mission is unwavering, as we firmly believe that the time for action is now.”

Wyene Lee, Vice President of SGS China, expressed:

“As the official partner of Hospitality Sustainability Basics, SGS is glad to work closely with WTTC, Jinjiang, make efforts to implement the initiative on Hospitality Sustainability Basics for more and more hotels in China.”

Since its launch in April 2022, the Hotel Sustainability Fundamentals initiative has garnered support from thousands of registered hotels worldwide, including renowned hotel groups such as Melia, Radisson, Accor, Louvre, and Meninger.

Drawing insights from Greenview and extensive consultations with stakeholders, including 11 global hotel brands, the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, and industry bodies like GSTC, Travalyst, Booking.com, and SHA, this initiative has been crafted to address three fundamental areas of action:

1. Quantifying and reducing energy and water consumption, waste generation, and carbon emissions.
2. Implementing crucial environmental preservation measures.
3. Making positive contributions to the communities in which these establishments are situated.

WTTC continues to champion sustainable growth in the travel and tourism sector, working closely with governments and international institutions to create employment, enhance exports, and promote greater prosperity while safeguarding the environment.

 

Source: 4hoteliers.com