Author(s)

J. Demajorovic & F.Z. Antunes

Abstract

The tourism sector plays a fundamental role in creating jobs, income and economic growth in both developing and developed countries. However, little attention is given to the environment, which implies a poor knowledge of the problems of environmental degradation associated with, e.g., the hotel industry, both in terms of construction and operation. This paper presents some of the principal initiatives at the global level and in Brazil in the hotel industry, focusing on the strategies of a hotel operation located in Brazil. The research shows the huge potential for cost reductions in water and energy consumption and solid waste disposal, through investments in technologies and new management procedures. It also shows the importance of the cultural dimension in the internalization of environmental issues,

Keywords