Search Results forSAP
BREAKING: IATA expresses disappointment with GSLTF recommendation
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expressed deep disappointment over the recommendation of the Global Solidarity Levies Task Force (GSLTF) to target air transportation. The GSLTF claims that it seeks to improve domestic revenue mobilization of developing countries and support international solidarity in particular with regards to climate change mitigation and adaptation, pandemics and other development challenges.” In a statement released by IATA at 8:17pm (BKK) on Friday, 4th July, the association pointed out that the GSLTF proposals have a number of critical deficiencies. These are as follows: A Competitive Airline Industry Does Not Generate Excessive Profits: The GSLTF announcement, while lacking any meaningful detail, quotes a CE Delft estimation that a premium flyer levy could generate EUR 78 billion (over USD 90 billion) per year. That is approximately three times the airline industry’s global estimated profit of USD 32.4 billion in 2024. Airlines’ structurally thin net profit margin (estimated at an average of 3.4% industrywide for 2024 and approximately half the global average for all industries) must also be considered in any policy deliberation. The Airline Industry Has a Multi-Trillion Dollar Commitment to Sustainability: Airlines have committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050—an effort that is expected to cost USD 4.7 trillion over the period 2024-2050. This will ensure that aviation can deliver its direct contribution of 3.9% of global GDP and 86.5 million jobs globally while addressing its estimated 2.5% share of global carbon emissions. Increasing aviation taxes on airlines as proposed will limit the industry’s ability to invest in solutions that deliver long-term emissions reductions. A Specialized Climate Financing Mechanism for Aviation Already Exists: The GSLTF’s proposal disregards the role of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), which was agreed through the International Civil Aviation Organization and is the world’s first globally agreed mechanism to manage carbon emissions from an industrial sector—in this case international aviation. The GSLTF states were among those that created CORSIA under the principle that it would be the single harmonized market-based measure to manage international aviation’s carbon emissions. Overlapping measures, such as the Solidary Levy, would undermine CORSIA and lead towards a fragmented, inefficient and inconsistent global policy framework. It is essential that all states (those in the GSLTF included) focus on making CORSIA successful rather than advancing overlapping measures. Topping the agenda of critical support needed for CORSIA is states making available the carbon credits so that airlines can fulfil their CORSIA obligations and states can realize their climate financing value. Failure to Assess Rising Costs is an Inescapable Consequence of the Proposed Levy: In addition, the GSLTF has not released any assessment of the impact that such a levy would have on the economies of the very states to which it aims to funnel the funds, or the broader impact it will have on all travelers. It has also not detailed how such funds would be used. Although the GSLTF is positioning its proposal as targeting premium travel, it fails to recognize the critical importance of this segment to making route networks viable. Punishing premium travelers or burdening the sector with excessive taxes would upend route dynamics which enable the connectivity that nearly five billion travelers will rely upon this year. The impact of the GSLTF’s proposal would make airlines less efficient and more financially strained. This would mean higher costs for all travelers and for items shipped by air. Such reduced affordability for a sector that is an indispensable economic catalyst ultimately brings the unintended consequence of weaker economic growth. IATA: the aviation sector is an economic catalyst IATA director-general Willie Walsh sternly pointed out that the global airline industry is an economic catalyst, not a cash cow. Walsh said: “Yet governments casually suggest a tax on flyers that is three times the airline industry’s annual profit without considering the real-world side effects for an industry that is a lifeline for remote communities, invigorates tourism markets and links local products to global markets. Moreover, while the modalities for the GSLTF proposal are not specified, history shows us that these taxes simply go to the general exchequer, with little, if any, of the revenues generated going to climate change adaptation. At the same time, Walsh decried the GSLTF’s claim that their solidarity levies will not increase the cost of living for ordinary citizens or impact things like household bills. He declared: “This is untrue. The bottom line is that, if followed, the GSLTF’s recommendations will increase the cost of air travel for all travelers and do more harm than good. Extracting tens of billions from aviation will cripple its ability to invest in achieving net zero by 2050, change route dynamics to the extent that connectivity will suffer, and short-change countries on the critical economic support that air transportation provides.” Furthermore, Walsh corrected the GSLTF’s assumption that airlines are shirking from doing their part to mitigate the impacts of climate change. As he put it: “The industry is doing everything possible to achieve net zero carbon emissions with Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), more efficient operations, and better technology. The last thing these efforts need is a US$90 billion gut punch of a tax. With respect to air transportation, the aims of the GSLTF could best be realized by supporting investments in SAF production so airlines can deliver prosperity by connecting people and businesses to global opportunities.” The public isn’t buying GSLTF’s explanations Independent global research carried out by Savanta in 15 countries for IATA reveals deep public skepticism over air travel taxation: 73 percent said that green taxes are government greenwashing; 79 percent said there are too many taxes on flying; 78 percent said that taxation is not the way to make aviation sustainable; 74 percent do not trust governments to spend tax money wisely; and 88 percent believe that taxes collected from air travel should be invested to improve travel for passengers. Likewise, the study showed that taxation was the least popular modality to compensate for carbon emissions associated with flying, supported by only nine percent of respondents. More popular preferences are SAF purchases at 25 percent, carbon emissions reducing technology investments at 23 percent, emissions reduction research at 18 percent, and offsetting at 13 percent.
GBA to launch scheduled service from Hong Kong to Sapporo, Japan in Dec 2025
Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) announced the launch of a scheduled service to Sapporo, Hokkaido, further expanding its network coverage in Japan. This new route will operate six weekly flights between Hong Kong and Sapporo (New Chitose Airport), starting 17 December 2025. Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture. It is a popular ski and hot spring destination for many Hong Kong people, and the annual snow festival is one of the world-famous events the city has to offer. The city is best known for the beautiful scenery of urban parks, such as Nakajima Park and Odori Park. Sapporo is also a culinary centre where tourists’ taste buds will be indulged by the fresh agricultural produce and seafood. The flight schedule of the Hong Kong – Sapporo service (subject to government approval) is as follows: Hong Kong (HKG) – Sapporo (CTS) (New Chitose Airport) Flight No. From To Departure / Arrival Days of Week HB008 Hong Kong Sapporo 0955/1540 Monday 0710/1255 Tuesday 0810/1355 Wednesday 1015/1600 Friday, Saturday, Sunday HB009 Sapporo Hong Kong 1640/2150 Monday 1600/2110 Tuesday 1640/2150 Wednesday 1700/2210 Friday, Sunday 1800/2310 Saturday A value carrier based in Hong Kong, GBA commenced scheduled service in July 2022 and is currently operating flights between Hong Kong and Bangkok, Taipei, Tokyo, Osaka, Yonago, Tokushima, Sendai, Manila, Phu Quoc, Zhoushan, Huangshan, Yichang, Guilin and Zhangjiajie with a fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
Holiday Inn & Suites Sapporo Odori Park to open with 195 keys in late 2025 in Japan
Guest Room - Holiday Inn & Suites Sapporo Odori Park IHG Hotels & Resorts had announced an agreement with Minami Nijo Operations, a wholly-owned subsidiary of World Brands Collection Hotels & Resorts, to open Japan’s second Holiday Inn & Suites later this year, which will be owned by a fund managed by Goldman Sachs. The 195-room Holiday Inn & Suites Sapporo Odori Park will open in late 2025 following an extensive renovation which includes all guest rooms, the addition of a new gym, and the introduction of a lobby café as part of Holiday Inn’s Open Lobby concept, a design-led and versatile space where guests can choose how they connect and relax. When it opens, Holiday Inn & Suites Sapporo Odori Park will join more than 1,200 Holiday Inn hotels and resorts around the world and eight Holiday Inn hotels in Japan. The brand has consistently evolved over the years, placing guests at the centre of its innovation and earning the reputation as one of the world’s most loved, trusted and recognised hotel brands. Abhijay Sandilya, CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan and Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts Japan & Micronesia, said: “We’re excited to be working in partnership with World Brands Collection Hotels & Resorts and Goldman Sachs to bring the Holiday Inn & Suites brand to the centre of Sapporo and lead this hotel into an exciting new chapter. “At IHG, we have developed the brands, enterprise platform and excellent capabilities needed to successfully attract conversion opportunities and have them open in short time frames offering guests new experiences and options whether they are travelling for leisure, business or blended travel. “This agreement adds to what will be the biggest year ever for the Holiday Inn brand family in Japan. Since the start of 2025 we have returned the brand to Kyoto and are set to open three more hotels under the Holiday Inn brand this year, including in Tokyo.” Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a bustling metropolis surrounded by incredible nature. It is renowned for beautiful seasonal scenery, great food experiences including fresh seafood and a year-round calendar of events including the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. The Hokkaido area continues to grow in popularity with a 40% increase in international travellers in 2024 versus 2019. Also, international weekly flight numbers have continued to increase during the first quarter of 2025 exceeding 2019 levels for the first time. Hiroshi Komoto, Representative Director and President of World Brands Collection Hotels & Resortssaid: “Following our successful collaboration with IHG on the debut of the Six Senses brand in Japan, it’s wonderful to be expanding our partnership into a new segment and new destination. “The Holiday Inn brand is globally recognised and enables visitors to stay with a brand they know and trust. We believe this property will be a fantastic choice for travellers to explore the beauty and wonders of Sapporo when it opens.” Holiday Inn & Suites Sapporo Odori Park will offer a choice of rooms or suites as well as a range of facilities including a gym, meeting spaces, a restaurant and a large public bath on an upper floor of the hotel. Located at the end of the well-known Tanukikoji Shopping Street in the popular downtown Susukino area, and a short walk to Odori Park, which is host to many events, the hotel will cater to both international and domestic travellers. IHG Hotels & Resorts operates five hotels in Hokkaido across three brands – Vignette Collection, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts and looks forward to the debut of the InterContinental brand later this year with the opening of InterContinental Sapporo. Across Japan, IHG operates 52 hotels across 10 brands, with 14 hotels in the pipeline.
Clarks Collection unveils Grand Sapphire in Ajmer
Clarks Collection announces the grand opening of Grand Sapphire, Ajmer, a boutique property designed to offer an exceptional experience for luxury travellers, religious pilgrims, corporate clients, and guests seeking intimate event spaces. This latest addition strengthens Clarks Collection’s nationwide footprint while embracing Ajmer’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural significance. Strategically located in the heart of the city, Grand Sapphire offers 28 elegantly designed rooms, thoughtfully equipped with modern amenities to ensure comfort and convenience. The property also features a spacious banquet hall accommodating up to 150 guests, making it an ideal venue for corporate events, social gatherings, and celebrations. In response to Ajmer’s evolving lifestyle preferences, Clarks Collection introduces an in-house pub and a rooftop restaurant, Masti, with a seating capacity of 120 guests. The restaurant serves an eclectic menu featuring North Indian, Continental, and authentic Rajasthani delicacies, showcasing the region’s culinary heritage. Additionally, the property boasts Sapphire Banquet Hall, a 3,500 sq. ft. event space, perfect for small functions, and Zero Degree, a state-of-the-art nightclub hosting DJs and music festivals with global talent. Taruna Rochani, owner Grand Sapphire, shared her excitement about the launch: “Rajasthan has always been a pivotal market for us, and Ajmer is a valuable addition to our growing portfolio. While catering to religious tourists, we also aim to attract younger travelers with immersive nightlife experiences. Through AI-driven guest engagement and personalized itineraries, we seek to redefine hospitality in the region.” Beyond luxury and entertainment, Clarks Collection is committed to sustainability and community development. The brand is actively working towards international quality certifications, a zero-plastic policy, and the use of locally sourced materials. Additionally, Clarks Collection prioritizes local hiring, contributing to the region’s economic growth. Khushi Corporate General Manager further adds, “With its seamless blend of luxury, culture, and sustainability, the launch of Grand Sapphire in Ajmer marks a significant milestone for Clarks Collection, setting new standards in the hospitality industry”.
Cebu Pacific’s direct Manila-Sapporo route takes off in January
Cebu Pacific launches direct flights between Manila and Sapporo in January next year, making air travel to the City of Snow much more exciting and affordable with the airline’s signature low fares. From 16 January 2025, Cebu Pacific will operate flights between Manila and Sapporo thrice weekly, every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Cebu Pacific will be the only airline to offer direct flights between these two cities. On to further network expansion Airline president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao said of the new route: “We are thrilled to be the only carrier to offer non-stop flights between Manila and Sapporo. The launch of this route is a testament to Cebu Pacific’s mission of expanding its international network and making air travel accessible to a wider range of passengers.” Passengers may use their existing Travel Funds to book flights and avail themselves of other add-ons. The airline also offers other payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets. At present, Cebu Pacific operates in 35 domestic and 27 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Into a winter wonderland With the launch of CEB’s direct Manila-Sapporo flights, travellers can cut their travel time to only around five hours compared to up to 10 hours on other airlines with layovers. Filipino travellers can also look forward to participating in the world-renowned Sapporo Snow Festival in February, snowboarding in the Teine Ski Resort, or visiting the Jozankei Onsen for its relaxing baths and natural views.
It’s oyster season on Australia’s Sapphire Coast
New South Wales tourism board Destination NSW just announced that oyster season is on in Australia’s Sapphire Coast. Oysters need the clearest, cleanest waters to thrive, and the waters around the Sapphire Coast are some of the most pristine in the state. For that reason, the southern New South Wales region, just north of the border with Victoria, is known as one of the best oyster regions in the country. That said, Destination NSW presents its list of where to enjoy the area’s best shellfish throughout the season which began in October and tapers off in June. A taste of Tathra Just outside the seaside town of Tathra, Gary and Jo Rodely, along with their son Sam, own and run Tathra Oysters, a humble oyster farm and shop that has been lauded as one of the best Sydney rock oyster farms in the country. The oysters are grown with a minimal intervention philosophy in the pristine waters of Nelson Lake, which lies just north of Tathra in the Mimosa Rocks National Park. They're so prized you'll find them on the menus of some of the most renowned, award-winning restaurants in Sydney. But when you're in Tathra, you can just walk into the farm's shop and have them freshly shucked in front of you. Organic produce at Wapengo Rocks Also in Mimosa Rocks National Park, Wapengo Lake is home to the spectacular organic produce of oyster wrangler Shane Buckley. His farm, Wapengo Rocks, has picked up numerous awards as well as praise for its sustainable farming practices, like using only recycled materials and a floating platform that encourages the growth of native seagrasses, which can be limited by the shade produced by traditional fixed oyster farms. If you're there during the season, late October to late June or early July, you can pick them up straight from the farm, just make sure to call before you go to ensure someone can be there to help. An oyster bar on the water at Merimbula Gourmet Oysters On the edge of the clear sapphire waters of Merimbula Lake, lies a cute barn with a weathered sign displaying the day's catch, and a deck overlooking an oyster farm. Order a platter of oysters and a plate of prawns, sit with the sun on your face and watch the quiet happenings of the lake. It's called The Oyster Barn and it's the farm gate shop and oyster bar by Pip and Dom Boyton of Merimbula Gourmet Oysters. Pambula Lake's finest, shucked, unshucked or bottled at Broadwater Oysters A half-hour drive south of Tathra, Pambula Lake has been home to oyster growers for more than 100 years. Here, the clean waters of the Pambula and Yowaka rivers combine with the tides of the Pacific Ocean to produce perfect conditions for a quality-focused farm like Broadwater Oysters. Owners Greg Carton and Sue McIntyre have been running the farm for more than two decades, and are rightly proud of their award-winning oysters, which you can buy shucked, unshucked or bottled, direct from the source. Tour the river and the farm with Captain Sponge Go behind the scenes on Pambula Lake, between Eden and Merimbula, with Captain Sponge’s Magical Oyster Tours. Brett Weingarth, aka Captain Sponge, will take you out on a fun (as well as educational) two-hour tour in which you'll learn all about oyster farming from someone in the business, and get to shuck and taste Sydney rock oysters fresh from the lake. You'll then cruise down the Pambula River, where ancient Aboriginal middens, distinct concentrations of shell remnants, offer evidence that oysters have been popular here for a very long time.
Accor announces signing of Sofitel Sapa Hotel and Residences
Accor formally announced the signing of Sofitel Sapa Hotel & Residences, a landmark luxury development set to bring Sofitel’s signature French elegance and cultural refinement to the breathtaking highlands of Northern Vietnam. This exciting new project will be a combination of 176 rooms and 436 branded residences. It is expected to open its doors in 2030, marking another milestone in the expansion of Sofitel’s portfolio in Southeast Asia. Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems said of the property: “We are delighted to bring the Sofitel brand to the enchanting region of Sapa, which offers a truly unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Sofitel Sapa Hotel & Residences will serve as a luxurious destination that harmoniously blends French zest with the spirit of Northern Vietnam. This signing reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences and supporting the growth of tourism in Vietnam.” Alphanam Group vice-chair Nguyễn Ngọc Mỹ / Sylvia Nguyen responded: “With the ancient carved stones of Muong Hoa Valley listed on UNESCO’s Tentative List, Sapa is a very special destination, dearly loved by Alphanam Group. By entrusting our beautiful development with reputable partners, we plan to offer a variety of hotels, room types, F&B and leisure services that further open up the Sapa market to our Vietnamese and international individual travelers, families, and other unique market segments, who seek for innovative, luxurious, and culturally-inspired traveling experiences. Through the branded residences component, we aim to give more choices for families, either as an investment asset, or as a weekend home. We are happy to announce our partnership with Accor and commit to building a product that reflects both the cultural significance and the international quality that Sapa deserves.” A historic location Perched in the stunning landscapes of Sapa, a region known for its terraced rice fields, mist-covered mountains, and vibrant cultural heritage, Sofitel Sapa will offer guests a unique blend of French Zest and the beauty of Vietnam’s most iconic natural surroundings. The hotel will embody the Sofitel brand’s timeless elegance while celebrating the local traditions and history that make Sapa a must-visit destination. Sapa has long been known as a captivating destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Nestled in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountain range, this beautiful town is famous for its diverse hill tribe communities, rice paddies that cascade down the mountainside, and the towering peak of Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina. A touch of French luxury tempered by sustainability The arrival of Sofitel in Sapa will elevate the region’s luxury offerings, blending French zest with Vietnamese hospitality to create a luxurious destination for both international visitors and domestic tourists. Sofitel Sapa Hotel & Residences will feature 176 guest rooms and suites with an additional 436 branded residences. Each will be designed to reflect the region’s natural beauty, with elegant French-inspired interiors complemented by local artistry and craftsmanship. Guests will enjoy world-class amenities surrounded by the alluring beauty of Sapa, including a signature Sofitel Spa, a premier fitness center, and a heated swimming pool. Gastronomy will also be a key highlight of Sofitel Sapa Hotel & Residences, with a selection of dining venues that combine the finest of French cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, offering a true “gastronomic journey” through the flavors of Vietnam and France. In line with Accor’s commitment to sustainability, Sofitel Sapa Hotel & Residences will implement eco-friendly initiatives and practices, ensuring that the hotel is as kind to the environment as it is luxurious for its guests. This includes energy-efficient systems, waste reduction programs, and the use of locally sourced materials.
SAP Concur report shows five challenges affecting business travel in 2024
SAP Concur’s latest report shows that companies need to balance numerous factors related to business travel, particularly those in the Asia-Pacific region. According to SAP chief revenue officer for the Asia-Pacific and Japan Sushant Jain, these organisations have to find a balance between conflicting corporate and employee travel needs, address employee reluctance regarding business travel as this could disrupt their work-life balance, and accommodate the growing demands for sustainable travel. Jain said: “Measures businesses could take include improving the flexibility of their travel policies, and better harnessing emerging technology like AI to obtain data-based insights to streamline workflows, minimise disruption, cut cost and raise employee satisfaction.” Five critical areas To ensure smooth running and maximise their investments in business travel, business leaders need to understand the possible friction points. These include the threat of disruption, employees’ reluctance to travel, balancing operational costs with sustainability measures, unequal access to travel opportunities, and the need to use AI to provide a seamless experience from arranging for travel to travel security and safety. Disruption, particularly in light of the 19 June IT outage that struck airports and airlines throughout the world, is seen as one of the biggest issues when it comes to business travel. Around 86 percent of travellers in the Asia-Pacific needed to make last-minute changes to their trips last year due to unexpected delays, cancellations, and rerouting of flights or land transportation measures. Keeping this in mind, organisations should consider giving their employees extra turnaround time per booking, private or subsidised connecting transport, as well as other features for easier rebooking in the event of untoward incidents. Dealing with reluctance and sustainability There are valid reasons behind the reluctance of many business travellers in the Asia-Pacific, and these stem from safety concerns, as well as the sociopolitical tenor in certain nations. 42 percent of would-be business travellers cited their concern for personal safety as a reason for turning down or hesitating over orders to travel. At the same time, up to 28 percent of business travellers in the region expressed their willingness to decline a trip if it means expanding the company’s carbon footprint or if they are not given options for sustainable travel. However, this poses an even greater budgetary concern as most companies feel that their travel budgets are inadequate for covering the cost of sustainable travel options. Unequal travel opportunities are also among the key issues that require addressing. Even in the 21st century, unequal access to travel remains, with up to 22 percent citing seniority, 18 percent pointing out age, and 10 percent saying gender as the top points of consideration whenever companies assign people to business trips. Where does AI come in? Up to 95 percent of Asian travellers said that they are open to using AI-enabled tools and options whenever they arrange for business trips. It is interesting to note, however, that only six percent are comfortable using current-generation AI-enhanced options. It should also be noted that up to 90 percent of business travellers within the region want their companies to give them assurances for personal data protection, protection against potential biases, as well as for any repercussions in the event that AI-assisted bookings run against company travel policies.
Courtyard by Marriott opens new location in Sapporo
Courtyard by Marriott recently opened its eighth hotel in Japan: Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo in Hokkaido, the country’s northernmost island. This recently opened hotel is also the brand’s first in the area and, as such, captures its rich culture and unique history in its overall design. Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo is right across Nakajima Park, home to a lake with carp and waterfowl, and offers stunning seasonal scenery. The hotel also provides easy access to Susukino's dining and entertainment, Nijo Market and Odori Park Marriott International’s area vice-president for Japan and Guam Karl Hudson expressed his excitement over the opening of the latest Courtyard by Marriott. Hudson said of the new establishment: “[Our] hotels combine innovative technology with style and comfort, with open and inviting public spaces. We are looking forward to welcoming Next-Gen guests at Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo, whether they are traveling on business, leisure, or both." The hotel’s general manager Masaru Yamaguchi said of its amenities: "Connecting travelers through comfortable and innovative spaces, intuitive service and a commitment to personal fulfilment is at the foundation of what we offer at Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo and our commitment to exceptional Japanese hospitality promises to create unforgettable experiences for our guests." Designed with comfort in mind The hotel’s aesthetic reflects a theme of harmony between nature and urban living, with 321 guest rooms and suites all tastefully designed to best support the needs of every guest with natural textures and accents, providing a comfortable stay. All rooms are furnished with Serta beds for exceptional comfort, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guest rooms located on upper floors also enjoy views of the ever-changing scenery of the area. To keep guests moving forward and help them pursue their passions while on the road, the hotel offers a fully-equipped 24-hour Fitness Center with the latest Technogym machines for a complete workout. The exclusive Japanese Spa also features a modern Japanese-style bath that welcomes guests to indulge in blissful relaxation for the body and mind at the end of a busy day of work, sightseeing or skiing.
Hoteliers set record by planting 1.1 million saplings in Indore under “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naaam’
The Indore Hoteliers Association (IHA) and the Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) - HRAWI participated in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ mega tree plantation drive which set a new world record by planting 1.1 million saplings in Indore in a single day. Led by Hon. Kailash Vijayvargiya Ji, Minister of the Government of Madhya Pradesh, the plantation drive saw active participation from Mr Sumit Suri, President of IHA and a large team of hoteliers. The event was graced by the presence of the Hon. Home Minister of India - Shri Amit Shah Ji and the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh - Shri Mohan Yadav Ji, contributing to Indore's entry into the Guinness Book of World Records. Over the past week, 5.1 million saplings have been planted in Indore by a team of over 700 hoteliers. “The initiative was part of the mega tree plantation drive under the nationwide campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,’ launched by Hon. PM Narendra Modi ji to mark World Environment Day on June 5. Under this campaign, 1.4 billion trees will be planted across the country, with 5.5 million in Madhya Pradesh, including 5.1 million in Indore. We are thrilled to have accomplished this task, especially as we set a world record by planting 1.1 million saplings in a day!” says Sumit Suri, EC member and State Co-ordinator (Madhya Pradesh), HRAWI. The hospitality industry is at the forefront of initiatives for a greener and more sustainable environment in the country. HRAWI has been leading these efforts, prioritizing sustainability and raising awareness in hospitality practices. “We are proud of this accomplishment but more excited about living our values. In the hospitality industry, we are entrusted as custodians of trust and guardians of the environment. It’s not just about fulfilling ethical obligations; it’s about forging a sustainable future. This successful plantation drive underscores the growing momentum behind sustainability and green investments in our industry. Alongside this, we continue to align our sustainability objectives with the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) pledge, making daily changes to protect the environment and motivating others to adopt environmentally friendly habits,” concludes Pradeep Shetty, President, HRAWI.
TDM C-Suite Travel Trade Global Summit 2025
Join us for a unique opportunity to connect with 200+ industry leaders from Hoteliers and other industry high flyers as we explore the future of travel and hospitality in Thailand beyond - “"The Future of Hospitality: Crafting Seamless Experiences in an AI Digital-Driven World"
Techsauce Virtual Summit 2020
Techsauce Virtual Summit 2020 launches in lieu of original conference due to COVID-19. Techsauce Global Summit to bring positivity and insight to the masses as it hosts new online conference with world-class speakers