The following publication is part of a series of 7 pieces prepared by Glion's IHB Masters students during a one-day workshop aiming at highlighting the potential of the hospitality industry to contribute to the achievement of the UN SDGs by 2030. All figures, data and initiatives are fictitious and were created by students in the context of an immersive and transformative learning experience where students generated ideas and propositions that transcend the conventional thanks to the simulation of a professional conference taking place in 2030.

Learn more about the workshop at Glion here.

This piece focuses on SDG 14, Life below water and SDG 15, Life on land. With NGO, UN and Marriott representatives around the table, students focused on the role of partnerships for the hospitality industry to protect and restore biodiversity and natural habitat. Key leverages for the industry includes paying attention to its supply chain, shedding a new light to its food offering so as to avoid endangered species and creating biodiversity hubs around hotel properties. Students' ideas and propositions highlight that hotel groups have a unique potential to contribute to the restoration of life below water and on land and will benefit from it both in the short and in the long term. 

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As a passionate student dedicated to sustainable development, I had the incredible opportunity to attend a thought-provoking panel discussion on the achievements of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 14 – Life Below Water and 15 – Life on Land in the hospitality industry by 2030. Esteemed leaders from Marriott, the Coral Reef Alliance, the World Tourism Organization (WTO), World Wildlife Funds (WWF), and the Global Shippers Association came together to explore how our industry can drive meaningful change by focusing mainly on Biodiversity and Protection of Natural Habitat. I am thrilled to share my insights and key takeaways from this inspiring event.

First and foremost, the representative of WWF, the world's leading conservation organization, highlights the achievement of new key protected areas, where new infrastructure cannot be made, to ensure that natural habitat is being preserved and restored. The WWF has collaborated with the Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) to ensure their preservation. The partnership between WWF and CORAL Alliance exemplifies the power of collaboration in achieving conservation goals.

The representatives from the Coral Reef Alliance emphasized the critical need to protect and restore our marine ecosystems. Their passionate plea for responsible tourism practices and the preservation of coral reefs highlighted the urgency of action. It was heartening to witness their collaborative efforts with hotels to increase Protected Areas as they serve as invaluable sanctuaries for biodiversity, allowing ecosystems to thrive and providing critical habitats for numerous species.

The WTO representative shed light on the global impact of sustainable tourism and its potential to drive economic growth while safeguarding our environment. He stressed the importance of creating inclusive and resilient destinations, fostering community engagement, and preserving biodiversity. Their call for governments and businesses to work hand in hand towards achieving these goals showcased a shared responsibility for sustainable development.

The Global Shippers Association brought a unique perspective to the discussion, highlighting the role of logistics and supply chain management in reducing the industry's carbon footprint. Their ballast water discharge since they did this, there are no new introduction of invasive marine species, shipping lanes were modified to minimize the sonic impact on marine mammals, such as whales and dolphins which use similar frequency sound waves to communicate. Also, eliminating discharge of pollution into the oceanic environment, Sources of environmental contaminants are diesel engines and human waste from cruises. To minimize the industry's footprint.

Lastly, the CEO of Marriott set the tone by reaffirming the company's unwavering commitment to sustainable practices. Their bold achievement of banning the consumption of key stone species completely in their hotels resonated deeply. By integrating sustainability into every aspect of their operations, with its commitment to creating net positive environments and habitats for endangered species. Creating hotels and resorts throughout their portfolio that are aimed to protect natural habitats and preserve biodiversity. Marriott is leading the charge towards a greener future in the hospitality industry.

The insights shared by these influential leaders left an indelible mark on me. I am inspired by their collective dedication and their acknowledgment that achieving SDGs is not a solitary endeavor but a collaborative journey that demands commitment from all stakeholders in the hospitality industry. As a student, this panel discussion has reinforced me to contribute to the achievement of further goals. I am excited to embark on a career path where I can promote sustainability within the industry, advocating for responsible practices, and influencing positive change.

*Article by Kaan Vanapruks, Pasit Sritragul, Hanin Mansouor I Hamdi, Ishita Kapur, Yuanhui Xia, Fumikazu Tei, Maxim Oosterveld, Valeriia Pecheryshna, Olivier Burnand-Galphin

About Glion Institute of Higher Education

Founded in 1962, Glion Institute of Higher Education is a Swiss institution offering bachelor's and master's degrees in hospitality, luxury and finance to an international student body across three campuses in Switzerland and London, UK.

Glion is ranked among the world's top five higher education institutions for hospitality and leisure management, and in the top three number for employer reputation since its entry in the ranking in 2018. (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2022).

Part of Sommet Education, worldwide leader in hospitality education, Glion is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

For more information, visit glion.edu.

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