Towards A Sustainable Future

The world and global leaders today are gradually moving towards a sustainable model in order to ensure quality of life for our future generations. And bringing this initiative home and to the hospitality industry is IHCL with their latest framework &mdash Paathya. 

Keeping in mind sustainability and social impact, the Indian Hotels Company launched their initiative Paathya at Taj Palace hotel, yesterday. The initiative aims at environmental stewardship, social responsibility, excellence in governance, preserving heritage, value chain transformation, and sustainable growth. Including both short and long term goals, the initiative is the first step in the direction to lead a positive change in the hospitality industry. The event was also graced by Rupinder Brar, Additional DG, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

&ldquoToday, it has become even more important to chart a new tomorrow - one that is more sustainable and inclusive. We believe this is the only way to drive India&rsquos journey to being among the top travel and tourism economies. The launch of Paathya is in line with IHCL&rsquos commitment to strengthen its resolve of contributing to the society with an integrated approach towards creating sustainable growth and positive impact. This reaffirms our founder, Jamsetji Tata&rsquos vision of keeping community at the heart of business,&rdquo said Punnet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, IHCL. 

He also reiterated how the pandemic has taught the resilient hospitality industry that, &rdquoWhen it comes to issues on environmental impact, social responsibility and governance, there are risks at play. But at the same time there are even more opportunities.&rdquo 

Under the initiative the hospitality giant aims to eliminate all single use plastic across all the properties by 2030 and will have on-site waste management systems. Not only that, all units will ensure 100% reuse of waste water while being certified to global sustainability standards. IHCL has also made a commitment to source 50% of their energy from renewable sources, along with sourcing 50% raw materials locally with 100% supplier code of conduct. In the coming years, one will also spot 50% of the parking area at all IHCL properties dedicated to EV charging stations.  Additionally, all the hotels will also be equipped to hold Innergise-green meetings to reduce the environmental impact. These meetings will be paperless and use materials that have been recycled or upcycled. A glimpse of the same was seen at the launch of Paathya, in the form of plantable pens and notebooks after use. In fact, the serving dishes were also made from coffee waste. 

Committing themselves to action, Chhatwal also said, &ldquoThe initiative will emphasise on shared values for all stakeholders. In order for continued growth and development of the tourism sector it is essential to ensure that it is sustainable and inclusive and it contributes positively to communities, natural ecosystems and the cultural heritage upon which our sector depends.&rdquo