publisher's point of view

As reported here on Green Lodging News, WTTC, UN Tourism and the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (now World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance) released a report on Earth Day entitled, “Nature Positive Travel & Tourism in Action.” The report lays out the organizations’ joint plan to help halt and reverse biodiversity loss.

To what degree does your property or company take into consideration biodiversity loss as a result of running your business?

Developed in collaboration with specialist consultancy ANIMONDIAL, the report is the sector’s pledge to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), the UN’s Biodiversity Plan.

The report presents more than 30 case studies of inspiring and progressive actions from around the world involving large and small businesses, national and local government agencies, civil society groups, and inter-sectoral partnerships. Be sure to download the report.

According to the report, the Nature Positive Tourism approach not only seeks to reduce the environmental harm caused by Travel & Tourism, but also to actively inspire business, governments, and society to invest in efforts to protect nature and restore biodiversity in destinations.

Glenn Hasek, Publisher & Editor

Click Here to Read the Remainder of This Column »

California Carpet Recycling Efforts Surpass Annual Goal for Second Consecutive Year

DALTON, GA.—The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) announced that the California Carpet Stewardship Program has surpassed its annual carpet recycling goal for the second year in a row. The new data released by the Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE) show the Program achieved a 35.1 percent recycling rate in 2023, surpassing its target goal of 31 percent. This achievement is attributed to collaborative efforts between the carpet industry and CalRecycle.

“As significant contributors to carpet recycling in California, The CRI and our members are encouraged by the ongoing accomplishments of the California Carpet Stewardship Program. The continued growth is a clear indication of the valuable collaboration among carpet manufacturers, retailers, installers and consumers to promote the responsible disposal and recycling of carpet,” said Russ DeLozier, president of The CRI. “The CRI, representing carpet manufacturing industry nationwide, remains engaged with CARE and the recycling industry to fulfill California’s legislative and environmental objectives in carpet recycling and continue to exceed the goals of the Program. We also are committed to advocating for market-based solutions for post-consumer recycling, which support our environment, industry, and consumers.”

Read More »

Support of Procure Impact Suppliers Grows Stronger as More Hotel Companies Sign Dignity of Work Pledge

NATIONAL REPORT—In late February, the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Procure Impact, a first-of-its-kind B2B marketplace for products that support overlooked communities, announced the launch of the Dignity of Work Pledge, an initiative to create 100,000 hours of paid employment for overlooked populations. At the time of the announcement, eight hotel companies had signed the Pledge. According to Jen Collins, President of Procure Impact, three companies have since signed on, five have verbally committed, and Procure Impact is in conversation with 15 more. There are now more than 150,000 hotel rooms represented.

Hotel companies that purchase from companies in the marketplace help employ individuals facing barriers to work, including survivors of trafficking, veterans, at-risk youth, refugees, individuals with disabilities, and individuals who have experienced poverty, incarceration, homelessness, mental health issues and trauma, or substance use disorders.

“Procure Impact is much-needed bridge between social enterprise vendors and corporate America,” Collins says.



Companies can purchase everything from candles and bath and body products to tables to art to consumer-packaged goods. Those products help individuals learn new skills and earn income in the process. The products are all made in the U.S.

Read More »

MGM Resorts International Releases 2023 Social Impact and Sustainability Report

LAS VEGAS—MGM Resorts International announced the publication of its 2023 Social Impact and Sustainability Report. The report details the company’s continuing and steadfast commitment to its Social Impact and Sustainability principles of embracing humanity and protecting the planet and building a legacy for generations to come. The report also highlights strategies, programs and performance focused on creating a more sustainable future and making a positive impact on the lives of employees, guests, and communities.



“Our legacy is grounded in being visionaries and working together to achieve the ambitious goals we set as a business,” said Bill Hornbuckle, CEO and President of MGM Resorts. “In 2023, we were able to make a positive impact on several social and environmental causes in the communities where we operate and leverage innovative technologies to better support sustainable cities.”

“Our people are the foundation of our company and its enduring heritage and culture,” said Jyoti Chopra, Chief People, Inclusion and Sustainability Officer. “It is through the steadfast commitment of our teams at all our properties and locations that we have been able to make great strides in environmental sustainability, philanthropy and diversity, equity and inclusion in 2023.”

Read More »

Accelerating EV Adoption: Insights into Fast-Charging Infrastructure & Trends

NATIONAL REPORT—As the automobile industry experiences a seismic transition toward electrification, the landscape of EV charging infrastructure in the United States is rapidly altering. This article analyzes the dynamic world of EV charging infrastructure and its implications for the future of transportation, from expected rise in electric vehicle (EV) numbers to important factors affecting the evolution of charging networks and possibilities on the horizon.

The United States is rapidly narrowing the EV charging infrastructure deficit, with approximately 600 fast-charging stations constructed in the first quarter of 2024 alone, according to the US Department of Energy. With over 8,200 quick-turn EV stations countrywide, the ratio has risen to one for every 15 gas stations, thanks in part to federal financing and increased demand. Retailers such as Buc-ee’s and Wawa are also helping to expand the infrastructure, making EV charging more accessible than ever. Despite improvements, changing public opinion remains a struggle, but the future of EV charging in the United States is unquestionably promising.

Read More »