Expo 2020 and sustainability: luxury hotel properties challenges and future outlook

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to know about the recent environmental changes that have impacted society worldwide have led to increased interest in and attention to the topic of sustainability. A good example of this new trend is provided by the Expo 2020, which is focussing on sustainability as one of the key sub-themes of the event.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores guests’ and employees’ perspectives on the deployment of sustainable practices in hotels. Particular attention is placed on the identification of challenges and drivers of sustainable practices in luxury hotel properties in Dubai.

Findings

The discoveries made during the study hold meaningful implications for industry professionals and provide insightful recommendations for the upcoming Expo 2020, which can be leveraged as a tool to increase awareness and drive education on effective sustainable practices.

Originality/value

With 35 different nationalities contributing to the data collection, the present study provides a diverse sample, enabling the researcher to shed light on the previously identified literature contradictions.

Citation

Giardina, G. (2019), "Expo 2020 and sustainability: luxury hotel properties challenges and future outlook", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 11 No. 3, pp. 314-326. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-01-2019-0005