The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) participated in the 2024 China Hotel and Catering Industry Brand Development Conference, where its CEO, Randy Durband, delivered a keynote speech. The event, held on November 27 in Haikou, Hainan Province, China, served as a platform for industry leaders and policymakers to discuss innovation, sustainability, and brand excellence in the hospitality and catering sectors.
During the conference, Mr. Durband delivered a keynote on the theme of « Sustainable Development Paths and Trends in the Global Hotel Industry. » Emphasizing the growing importance of integrating sustainability into core business strategies and operations within the hospitality sector. Drawing on global best practices and the GSTC Criteria, he outlined actionable frameworks that have been successfully implemented by leading destinations, showcasing how sustainability is no longer a secondary consideration but a pivotal factor in hospitality, driving customer loyalty, operational efficiency and long-term profitability.
« We were delighted to join in meaningful dialogue with the China Hospitality Association, Dossen Hotel Group, and other leading players in the hospitality industry in China at this 2024 China Hotel and Catering Industry Brand Development Conference. While acknowledging the good work of CHA’s Green Hotel program, we pointed out the value of joining forces nationally and internally because brands and guests cross borders, » said Mr. Durband.
The conference fostered meaningful discussions among industry stakeholders and highlighted the importance of addressing pressing environmental and social challenges while striving for excellence within the sector. Mr. Durband had the chance to meet with GSTC Members such as Grace Hu, Chief Sustainability Officer from Dosen Hotel Group.
