The document traces the historical evolution of sustainability and sustainable development concepts from ancient times to modern global initiatives. Key milestones include 18th century German Hans Carl von Carlowitz coining the term "sustainability"; the 1987 Brundtland Commission report defining sustainable development as meeting present needs without compromising future generations; and the 1992 Earth Summit adopting Agenda 21 and establishing principles like precaution and transparency. Modern frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals guide global efforts to 2030 by addressing issues from poverty to climate change.
The document traces the historical evolution of sustainability and sustainable development concepts from ancient times to modern global initiatives. Key milestones include 18th century German Hans Carl von Carlowitz coining the term "sustainability"; the 1987 Brundtland Commission report defining sustainable development as meeting present needs without compromising future generations; and the 1992 Earth Summit adopting Agenda 21 and establishing principles like precaution and transparency. Modern frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals guide global efforts to 2030 by addressing issues from poverty to climate change.
The document traces the historical evolution of sustainability and sustainable development concepts from ancient times to modern global initiatives. Key milestones include 18th century German Hans Carl von Carlowitz coining the term "sustainability"; the 1987 Brundtland Commission report defining sustainable development as meeting present needs without compromising future generations; and the 1992 Earth Summit adopting Agenda 21 and establishing principles like precaution and transparency. Modern frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals guide global efforts to 2030 by addressing issues from poverty to climate change.
The document traces the historical evolution of sustainability and sustainable development concepts from ancient times to modern global initiatives. Key milestones include 18th century German Hans Carl von Carlowitz coining the term "sustainability"; the 1987 Brundtland Commission report defining sustainable development as meeting present needs without compromising future generations; and the 1992 Earth Summit adopting Agenda 21 and establishing principles like precaution and transparency. Modern frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals guide global efforts to 2030 by addressing issues from poverty to climate change.
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Sustainable
Development and the
Hospitality Industry Problem The problem of climate change refers to the long- term alteration of global and regional climate patterns, primarily attributed to human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. This leads to an increase in greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing the Earth's temperature to rise. Complexity Hospitality Navigating these complexities requires effective leadership, adaptability to market trends, innovation, and a commitment to continuous improvement in service delivery and guest experiences. The Rational for sustainability in hospital integrating sustainability into hospital operations not only aligns with healthcare's core mission of promoting well-being but also ensures the long-term viability and resilience of healthcare systems in the face of evolving environmental and societal challenges. Defining Sustainability and Sustainable Development: A Historical Perspective Introduction
The concept of sustainability and sustainable development
has evolved over centuries, shaped by philosophical reflections, scientific advancements, and societal shifts. This report traces the historical trajectory of defining sustainability from ancient philosophical musings to contemporary global initiatives. Through key milestones and influential figures, we explore the conceptual development leading to the modern understanding of sustainable development. The Greeks, the Romans, and von Carlowitz
Ancient Greek and Roman philosophers contemplated the
intricate relationships between human activities and ecosystems, recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship. Plato and Aristotle deliberated on population dynamics and nature's purpose, while Pliny the Elder highlighted the adverse effects of deforestation in his work "Naturalis Historia." However, it was not until the 18th century that Hans Carl von Carlowitz pioneered the modern interpretation of sustainable development. In his seminal work, "Sylvicultura Oeconomica" (1713), von Carlowitz advocated for responsible resource management, emphasizing the need for reforestation and energy-efficient practices. He coined the term 'sustainability,' laying the groundwork for future discourse on environmental conservation. From Freiberg to Brundtland Commission The 19th-century German sustainable forestry science laid the foundation for international recognition of sustainability principles. However, the rapid economic growth of the 20th century, driven by resource depletion, posed significant challenges to sustainable development. Initiatives such as the 1951 report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and publications like "Spaceship Earth" (Ward, 1966) and "The Economics of the Coming Spaceship Earth" (Boulding, 1966) underscored the interconnectedness of human activities and ecological systems. Garrett Hardin's concept of the "Tragedy of the Commons" (1968) further elucidated the perils of unregulated resource exploitation. These discussions paved the way for the Club of Rome's influential report, "The Limits to Growth" (1972), which highlighted the finite nature of resources and the need for sustainable practices. From Brundtland Report to Rio The landmark Brundtland Report (1987) crystallized the modern definition of sustainable development, emphasizing the balance between meeting present needs and safeguarding future generations' ability to meet their own needs. Subsequent publications, such as "Caring for the Earth" (UNEP, IUCN, WWF, 1991), expanded the definition to encompass economic and socio-cultural dimensions. The Earth Summit in 1992 further advanced the sustainable development agenda, culminating in Agenda 21's adoption. This comprehensive action plan underscored the importance of education, innovation, and global cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals. Principles of Sustainable Development
Agenda 21 introduced a set of principles guiding
sustainable development efforts, including precaution, responsibility, transparency, innovation, and involved citizenship. These principles underscore the collective responsibility of individuals, communities, and nations in fostering sustainable practices and preserving the planet's ecological integrity. 1. The principle 2. The principle 3. The principle 4. The principle of 5. The of precaution: of responsibility: of transparency: social and to prevent any risks principle of to adopt social and to make all relevant technological occurring that are environmental involved information innovation: deemed possible. responsibility for all citizenship: available to to move forward activities and to contribute to stakeholders. social and decisions. local, national technological innovation in a way and global that benefits tasks. humankind and the planet. Conclusion The historical evolution of sustainability and sustainable development reflects humanity's growing awareness of its environmental impact and the imperative for responsible stewardship. From ancient philosophical inquiries to contemporary global initiatives, the journey towards sustainability continues, guided by a shared commitment to harmonizing human needs with ecological realities. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, integrating sustainability principles into policy frameworks and everyday practices remains paramount for ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for all. FROM RIO TO KYOTO
• the subject of climate change was projected to the
forefront of sustainable development in 1997 in Kyoto, japan. An agreement was a reached, known as the kyoto protocol, by 38 industrial Countries to reduce their combined GHG emissions by 5.2% on average by 2012 compared to 1990 levels (UNFCC, 1998) JOHN ELKINGTON
• Published cannibals with folks:” The triple bottom
line”of 21st century business. • He had already started to use the term TBL back in 1994 in an article Published California Management in the review on Win-win-win business strategies (elkington, 1994) • He argues that that measuring success means Capturing, analysing and reporting ecological And social performance in addition to the financial performance of an organisation. • He writes, while there have been Successes, our climates, water resources, oceans, forest, soils and biodiversity are all increasingly threatened. (Elkington, 2018). POST-KYOTO AND COP21
• In 2000, world leaders gathered and adopted the eight
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). • The World summit on sustainable development (WSSD) or earth summit + 10 look place in Johannesburg Summit broadened the definition of sustainable development even further. PARIS AGREEMENT
• The gathering of nations in December 2015 in paris had
the frincipal goal to agree on global legally binding plan to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. • Convention of dimate change also known as (cop) • The paris agreement also covers in any interrelated issues. (1) the financing of adaptation. (2) Minimising Loss and damage. (3)Peaking and reducing emissions (4) Installing a continous improvement system SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGs)
• Is supposed to guide global sustainable development until
2030. • The 17 goals comprise a set of 169 targets and 231 unique indicators, covering topics, ranging from ending poverty, security, ensuring health lives, accessing quality education, providing Water, energy access, Promoting employment and decent work for all. The complate list of topics, target’s and indicators can be accessed from the Sustainable Development knowledge platform. OTHER DEFINITION OF SUSTAINABILITY
• There is a proliferation of definitions on Sustainable
development and Sustainability which may show the importance or relative attention the topics is receiving. • Most definitions earlier in the chapter. two notable and Industry related Contributions come from the world business Council on Sustainable development (WBCSD) and the world tourism Organization (UNWTO). WORLD BUSINESS COUNCIL ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (WBCSD)
• Is a coalition of 200 global business with a Common
approach to Sustainable development. • “forms of progress that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.” (WBCSD, 2014). WORLD TOURISM ORGANIZATION (UNWTO)
• Is an agency of the United Nations dedicated to the
promotion of tourisms. • It is particularly dedicated to the implementation of the global code of ethics for tourism. • The Organization is also Committed to promoting tourism as an instrument to achieving the SDGs. The World Business Council on Sustainable Development (WBCSD) defines sustainable development as "forms of progress that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs" (WBCSD. 2016). This definition underscores the importance of balancing current needs with long-term considerations, ensuring that economic, social, and environmental objectives are pursued in harmony. o r ld T o u r is m O r ga n iz a ti o n • On the o th e r h a n d , th e W e n c y o f th e U n it e d N a ti o n s (U N W T O ) , a s a n a g o m o ti o n , a ls o e m b r a c e s th e focu s ed o n to u ris m p r e v e lo p m en t. H o w e v e r, th e ir conc e pt o f s u s ta in a b le d th e to u r is m s e c to r 's u n iq u e persp e c ti v e is ta il o r e d to n itie s . T h e U N W T O a li g n s chall e n g e s a n d o p p o r tu o f s u s ta in a b ilit y o u tl in e d in with th e b r o a d e r n o tio n e m p h a s iz in g r e s p o n s ib le the Brundtland Report, th e w e ll -b e in g o f p r a c ti c e s th a t c o n tr ib u te to tourism o s y s te m s w h il e ti o n s . c o m m u n it ie s , a n d e c destina e S u s ta in a b le o r tin g th e a c h ie v e m e n t o f th su pp Develop m e n t G o a ls ( S D G s if ic a n t c o n tr ib u ti o n s to th e o n te n t d is c u s s e s tw o s ig n • Th e c r ld B u s in e s s C o u n c il o n s u s ta in a b il it y f r o m th e W o definitions o f o u r is m ( W B C S D ) a n d th e W o r ld T Sustain a b le D e v e lo p m e n t iz a ti o n s r e f le c t th e b r o a d e r ( U N W T O ) . B o th o rg a n Organisation d e v e lo p m e n t p r in c ip le s d in te g ra ti o n o f s u s ta in a b le acceptance an T h e W B C S D e m p h a s iz e s e s s a n d to u ri s m p r a c ti c e s . in global busin t m e e ts c u r r e n t n e e d s e v e lo p m e n t a s p r o g r e s s th a sustaina b le d m e e t th e ir f u tu r e g e n e ra ti o n s ' a b il it y to without c o m p r o m is in g th e B r u n d tl a n d R e p o r t. T h e h o in g th e e s s e n c e o f n e e d s, e c ri s m a s a m e a n s to m it m e n t to p r o m o ti n g to u UNWTO 's c o m n d it s v e lo p m e n t G o a ls ( S D G s ) a achieve th e S u s ta in a b le D e s f o r T o u r is m il lu s tr a te h o w G lo b a l C o d e o f E th ic dedication to the e d w ith in s p e c if ic p r in c ip le s a r e o p e r a ti o n a li z sustainabil it y a n d s u s ta in a b le g ro w th . industries for responsible SUSTAINABLE HOSPITALITY
• Using the Brundland report's • Hospitality operation
definition as a starting point, managing resources and the UNWTO's definition of considering the economic, sustainable tourism, social and environmental cost SUSTAINABLE and benefits in order to meet HOSPITALITY can be defined the need of present generation as. while protecting and enhancing opportunities for future generations. Overcoming Obstacle
Many hoteliers are stuck in a typical
causality dilemma. The aphorism "it takes money to money" is often referred to when dealing with sustainability initiative. Critique of Sustainability
Although interest and support for
sustainable development matters is growing continuously, critic's and sceptics exist. The social dimension of a hospitality operation focuses on its impact on society, with the goal of favorably influencing local life. It entails addressing topics such as the personal realm, social life, and social infrastructure. A corporation must evaluate its activities that promote well-being, such as fair trade and pricing. Economic dimension Private sector organizations in the hospitality sector prioritize profit maximization, despite the existence of alternatives. However, mitigating environmental impacts can provide significant short- and long-term business benefits. Implementing energy and water-efficient technologies, using energy-efficient equipment, and providing proper employee training can increase internal profitability. A hospitality company committed to a sustainable business policy supports and participates in the local economy, generating economic benefits for local people through increased employment, investment in training, and linking with other businesses to market destinations. Three dimensions of sustainable hospitality
Sustainable hospitality involves considering
the entire value chain and life cycle of an operation, from construction to management, from food and beverage sourcing to waste management, and from day-to-day operations. All decisions must align with the environment, society, and operational profitability. The Sustainable Hospitality Framework emphasizes the importance of partnerships between multiple stakeholders, including businesses, local governments, educational institutions, non-government bodies, and citizens' groups, to implement sustainable practices in the tourism industry. It emphasizes the need for realistic indicators for environmental improvement and sustainable development, and the use of savings from sustainable management systems for continued environmental improvement. It also emphasizes the importance of environmental training and information dissemination for small and medium-sized enterprises, and the need to revise communication strategies to reflect sustainable initiatives. The environmental dimension of an organization focuses on its impact on climate, biodiversity, ecosystem services, air, water, land use, and waste. The main objectives are to minimize or eliminate practices that may adversely affect the enjoyment of the planet's resources by present and future generations. In heavily degraded environments, regenerative hospitality is required to maintain and promote natural diversity. The relationship between tourism and biodiversity is complex, as the industry is dependent on biodiversity but also a threat to it through its activities. Hospitality operations can impact the environment throughout their life cycle, including planning, building, manufacturing, food cultivation, fossil fuel use, water use, waste production, and employee and guest transportation. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) examines environmental impacts before and during hospitality operations. Dealing with Challenges: Two Philosophical Approaches
-As a written earlier in the chapter, a strong motivation for
hospitality companies embarking on sustainable business initiatives is the competitive advantage that can be achieved. Although competitive advantage is seen necessary, it must be stated that in fast-changing market, conditions, competitive advantages do not last very long. Two philosophies stand out among the different theories on how to solve the challenges: the Malthusian and the solovian approaches ( Martin & Kemper, 2012) MALTHUSIAN APPROACH TO SUSTAINABLE HOSPITALITY
The Malthusian approach is based on the work of
Thomas Malthus, a nineteenth century English scholar and economist. Malthus considered that the combination of exponential population growth and finite nature resources, food production in particular, is creating a condition known as the Malthusian catastrophe. A Malthusian Hospitality
The hospitality industry has implemented the
multhusian approach to a certain extent already. Tha basic 3Rs of waste management (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) implemented throughout many hospitality operations is an example. SOLOVIAN APPROACH TO SUSTAINABLE HOSPITALITY
American economist Robert Solow developed an economic
theory where productivity is influenced by continuously improving technology innovation. Thus , the solovian approach is based on the use of technological innovation to face the grand challenges. A Solovian Hospitality
In order to increase the pace towards
decarbonization, net zero carbon buildings or zero-carbon- ready building are developed or retrofitted accordingly. Solar water heating and photovoltaic system are key components to renewable energy production as well as waste heat recovery from individual air conditioners and cooling and freezing facilities. Resiliency and Sustainability
The Hospitality Sector is global industry. Business are located
and operating around the clock, around the world. Facing global challenges as discussed in this chapter the hospitality industry is subject to greater climate and transition risks. There are two significant types of climate change risk that could impact financial stability of Hospitality business.
1. Physical risks 2. Transition risks
A hotel physical infrastructure In the race towards (e.g.,, building, water, power, decarbonization, with stricter sanitation) may be at risk from a regulations planned or already variety of natural and man- implemented, adjustment such as made hazards placing staff and major retrofitting are required guests at risk. now or in the years to come to towards a low-carbon economy. Hospitality Impact
The Hospitality Industry impacts, positively or negatively,
communities in which it operates in the form of employment, working conditions and the use of a supply chain.
On the environment pillar, the hospitality sector has shown
to have a series of negative impacts. Air and water pollution, Solid and water waste as well as GHGs are some of the environment outputs from the Hospitality and tourism industries. Gaining and Maintaining a Competitive Advantage
Gaining a competitive advantage In the hospitality
industry can be difficult. The Hospitality Sector is highly heterogeneous with a myriad of actors, from small independent entrepreneur to global player, which result in a fleece competition. In such situations, Hospitality Companies closely observe each business move made by competitors and industry leaders. Momentum from International Agreement
The international Paris Agreement on climate change was
adopt by 195 countries and the European Union In December 2015, and is she results of six years of work of work since the 209 conference in Copenhagen land 20 years since the first conference (COP1) held in Berlin in 1995. Beyond the environment: Ethics of Conducting Business
Ethics issues arise in four main areas:
1. The Supply chain 2. The Local Community 3. The Workplace 4. The Customer There may be concern about exploitative labor practices in supply chain or exploitation of migrant worker in hotels and restaurant. Proactive Approach
Encouragingly, there is evidence that the hotel industry is
assuming a proactive, collective approach to human rights and business ethics incorporating human risk-mapping, employee training on responsible business and sustainable local benefits. Major hotel companies have a taken significant steps in the past decade to integrate policies on human rights into their stated policies on business conduct and ethics.