AHLA’s member organizations are progressively integrating environmental objectives into their operational strategies. The summit, a part of AHLA’s Responsible Stay initiative, offers hotel operators a platform for in-depth discussions on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) approaches, U.S. energy policies, and financing for eco-friendly transitions.

This year’s summit spotlighted two notable advancements supporting these objectives:

  • The AHLA and the Hotel Association of Canada have formed a partnership to administer the Green Key Global hotel sustainability certification program across the U.S. and Canada.
  • In collaboration with Procure Impact, AHLA introduced the Dignity of Work Pledge, aiming to generate 100,000 hours of paid employment for marginalized communities, thereby fostering ethical sourcing practices.

Notable speakers at the summit included Dan Feldman of Covington, discussing ESG regulatory collaborations; Ben Feller of Maslansky + Partners on ESG communication strategies; Greg Gershuny from The Aspen Institute on future energy perspectives; and Emily Kreps from Deutsche Bank, discussing sustainable finance.

Originating from AHLA’s Responsible Stay® initiative, which launched in 2022, the summit embodies the hospitality industry’s pledge to enhance sustainability through energy efficiency, waste reduction, water conservation, and ethical sourcing.

AHLA encourages hoteliers to engage in a variety of sustainability efforts, including:

  • Enrolling in the Green Key Global hotel sustainability certification program.
  • Collaborating with IncentiFind to identify and utilize financial incentives for sustainability projects.
  • Committing to the Dignity of Work Pledge to support sustainable procurement from marginalized groups.
  • Adopting best practices to minimize food waste through Hotel Kitchen.
  • Supporting the principles of Responsible Stay.

“AHLA is proud to host the inspiring Responsible Stay Summit, which is designed to help hoteliers build a more sustainable future for our guests, our industry, and our planet,” said AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers. “Hoteliers can always count on AHLA for the latest sustainability tools, resources, and best practices in this fast-evolving field.”