IHG has launched a series of “ambitious” new commitments on sustainability and social responsibility under the title Journey to Tomorrow.
Unveiling the initiative this week, the hotel giant’s CEO Keith Barr said the global response to Covid-19 has shown what can be achieved when organisations bring together expertise, resources and compassion for the greater good.
“Journey to Tomorrow embodies IHG’s strengthened commitment to make sure we do what’s right, not just what’s needed,” he said.
“We want every IHG stakeholder to see that we’re on a journey to be successful in every sense of the word, and we are determined to contribute towards positive social and economic change, to stand up for key issues such as diversity, equity and inclusion, and human rights, and to make more responsible environmental choices.
“I believe that how we grow as a company and work to be a greater force for good are inextricably linked. So, we are empowering our colleagues, and working together with our hotel owners and our industry to help shape the future of responsible travel. It’s never been more crucial that we do.”
The commitments come after a worldwide survey of 9,000 adults showed people are more mindful than ever about travelling responsibly and are willing to pay more to travel sustainably.
It found that almost half of Brits said they care more and want to make better travel choices post-Covid.
The survey also found:
- 49% of UK adults who travel agree that they care more about doing their bit for local communities and the planet while travelling now than they did 10 years ago
- 46% agree that they want to be more environmentally and socially conscious on their travels
- 33% agree that they are more likely to support brands with strong environmental and social commitments
- 69% say choosing a hotel brand/accommodation that operates responsibly is important to them, and 22% say this is very important.
Karin Sheppard, SVP, Managing Director for Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “Now more than ever an emphasis is being placed on how consumers can travel better – with green credentials, reducing our carbon footprint and caring for the community being talking points.
“Everyone can change their behaviours and still enjoy travelling for both business and leisure, but it’s important for organisations to pave the way for travellers.”
IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow sets out five clear ambitions relating to the way it cares for its people, protects the communities in which it operates, reduces energy use, moves to minimal waste, and conserves water.
