Dossen Group has joined as a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
Dossen International Group is one of China’s leading hospitality management companies. It is the first local Chinese hotel group to join GSTC as a member. Founded in 2006, Dossen International is governed by the corporate values of customer-oriented, result-oriented, passion and focus, cooperation, and sharing. The Group’s network spans over 31 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions in China, with over 3,500 member hotels operating or under development and more than 87 million registered members.
Sustainability Commitment
Dossen Group is dedicated to minimizing its environmental footprint, supporting local communities, and fostering a culture of responsible tourism. Through initiatives focused on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and community engagement, Dossen Group strives to make positive contributions to the destinations it operates in, leaving behind a legacy for future generations to cherish.
Dossen Group announced the finalization of its group sustainability strategy, named “Netzero Voyage,” and the establishment of its dedicated ESG office, led by its Head of Sustainability/ESG. This strategic move underscores Dossen Group’s commitment to embedding sustainability into every aspect of its operations, from the boardroom to every hotel in its network.
To execute its group strategy effectively, the Group recently appointed its 2024 Green Executives. These individuals will oversee sustainability initiatives within each hotel HQ department, ensuring that Dossen’s sustainability strategy permeates every level of the organization and that feedback from all stakeholders is incorporated into its practices.
Under the “Netzero Voyage” strategy, the Dossen Group declared its commitment to achieving NetZero emissions before 2050. To obtain this ambitious goal, Dossen has identified three primary focus areas:
Green Partnership: Recognizing the pivotal role of a responsible supply chain in achieving sustainability goals, Dossen Group is dedicated to building a green supply chain. This entails prioritizing products and materials with low carbon emissions, environmental safety, and traceability. By partnering with suppliers who share their sustainability ethos, Dossen aims to ensure that every facet of its operations, from procurement to waste management, reflects the Group’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Green Experience: The Green Experience is central to its sustainability strategy, demanding a holistic perspective on both operations and service frameworks. They recognize that delivering green, low-carbon experiences to their clients goes beyond merely providing environmentally friendly features—it calls for a thorough reevaluation of their entire service delivery approach. From optimizing energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems to implementing digital solutions for guest check-in and room controls, every aspect of its operations will be designed with sustainability in mind. Additionally, the Group will prioritize waste reduction and recycling efforts, offer eco-conscious dining options, and provide guests with opportunities to engage in local conservation and cultural experiences. Through these green practices, Dossen Group aspires to influence the entire industry and inspire others to follow along.
Green Investment: Internally, the Group is committed to fostering a green culture within our organization, ensuring that sustainability is woven into its corporate fabric. Through regular training and promotion activities, Dossen will empower every employee to embrace the principles of sustainable development, enhancing their sense of ownership and driving the implementation of its sustainable development strategy. With its strategic partnership with an AI Intelligent Control Technology Company, Dossen Group will undertake energy-saving renovations at its Guangzhou headquarters. These efforts will be integrated into the group’s carbon emission data, enabling everyone to witness the tangible impact of their actions on carbon emissions and experience the economic benefits of reducing them. Externally, the Group is dedicated to supporting its investors, particularly those managing franchise hotels, in their sustainability endeavors. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and expertise, the Group will assist them in reducing energy consumption and operational costs, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship where sustainability contributes to both environmental preservation and financial success.
In 2024, the Group will embark on several initiatives, including its inaugural group carbon mapping exercise and the release of its first sustainability report. These endeavors reflect Dossen Group’s dedication to transparency and accountability, showcasing the meaningful impact of our sustainability initiatives on our group and the communities it serves.
Additionally, the Group is actively collaborating with the China Hotel Association to develop new green hotel certification criteria, which it aims to align with GSTC Criteria to further elevate its sustainability standards.
Xinhua Cheng, group Chairman of Dossen said: “At Dossen Group, sustainability is not just a goal; it’s a fundamental principle guiding our operations. Joining GSTC underscores our unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism practices and reinforces our dedication to creating memorable experiences for our guests while preserving the environment and supporting local communities. Meanwhile, we endeavor to be the voice of China’s local hotel industry on the international stage, forging a path towards a green world shaped by global collaboration. Together with GSTC, we look forward to driving positive change and shaping the future of sustainable hospitality.”
GSTC Welcomes Dossen
“Dossen is the first Chinese wholly-owned hotel group to join the GSTC. We value the commitment of the Dossen Group in supporting our mission. We look forward to working with them to advance sustainable tourism practices in their hotels in China,” says Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC.
About Dossen Group
Dossen Group is a leading hotel management company in China, driven by digital innovation and committed to providing cost-effective accommodation experiences for travelers. Our mission is to offer superior stays at lower costs. Through digital innovation, intelligent operations, standardized practices, and green initiatives, we ensure high-value accommodations for our guests. As of December 31, 2023, our network spans over 31 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions in China, with over 3,500 member hotels operating or under development. With more than 87 million registered members, Dossen Group continues to expand its footprint, setting benchmarks in sustainable hospitality and delivering enjoyable stays and exciting journeys.
More information here: https://www.dossen.com
About the GSTC
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council® (GSTC®) establishes and manages global sustainable standards, known as the GSTC Criteria. There are three sets: Destination Criteria for public policy-makers and destination managers, Industry Criteria for Hotels and Tour Operators, and MICE Criteria for Venues, Event Organizers, and Events & Exhibitions. These are the guiding principles and minimum requirements that any tourism business or destination should aspire to reach in order to protect and sustain the world’s natural and cultural resources while ensuring tourism meets its potential as a tool for conservation and poverty alleviation.
The GSTC Criteria form the foundation for GSTC’s assurance role for Certification Bodies that certify hotels/accommodations, tour operators, and destinations as having sustainable policies and practices in place. GSTC does not directly certify any products or services, but provides accreditation to those that do. The GSTC is an independent and neutral USA-registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that represents a diverse and global membership, including national and provincial governments, leading travel companies, hotels, tour operators, NGOs, individuals and communities – all striving to achieve best practices in sustainable tourism.
Information for media and the press: www.gstcouncil.org/about/for-the-press/
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Statements expressed in this announcement are presented for informational purposes only and should not be taken as an endorsement or recommendation by GSTC, unless clearly stated.
