Dusit Hotels and Resorts has joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), as part of its efforts to strengthen sustainability practices across its operations.
GSTC is a non-profit organisation that brings together public and private sector stakeholders to promote sustainable tourism standards and collaboration. Membership provides access to a global network focused on knowledge-sharing and the development of responsible tourism practices.
Dusit International, founded in 1949, operates across hospitality, education, food, real estate and related services. Its portfolio includes 290 hotels, resorts and villas in 18 countries, representing more than 11,800 rooms across nine brands.
The company’s sustainability approach is guided by its Tree of Life programme, which aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including climate action, responsible consumption and community engagement. The programme covers areas such as energy and water use, waste management and employee and guest well-being.
Energy management systems have been introduced at property level to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Renewable energy solutions, including solar installations, are in place at several properties, including Dusit Thani Maldives, Dusit Beach Resort Guam and Dusit Thani Kyoto.
Water conservation measures include wastewater treatment and reuse for irrigation where possible. The group has also introduced initiatives to reduce single-use plastics, including refillable amenities and alternative packaging.
Food waste is addressed through measures aimed at reducing waste during preparation, redistributing surplus food through partnerships and composting organic waste.
Beyond environmental initiatives, Dusit has implemented policies related to responsible tourism. It joined The Code for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism in 2018 and has signed the WTTC Council declaration on illegal wildlife trade.
Community programmes include Dusit Smiles, which has raised more than 13 million baht (US$360,000) since 2010 to support medical care for children in Thailand.
“Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration across the travel ecosystem, and it is important that we continue to learn, evolve, and engage with respected organisations helping to shape the future of responsible tourism,” said Chanin Donavanik, group CEO and chairman of the sustainability committee at Dusit International.
“GSTC warmly welcomes Dusit Hotels and Resorts as a GSTC member organisation. We value their commitment in supporting our mission and look forward to advancing together in the direction of this shared and significant goal,” added Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC.
He joins from senior roles with IHG, Wyndham and Rosewood, where he led hotel openings, repositioning and operational performance.
She has more than 15 years of experience, including roles at Cheval Blanc Randheli and Anassa Hotel.
The escalating events surrounding the Middle East have disrupted fuel supply chains across the globe. This is particularly challenging for the travel industry, which is extremely reliant on fuel to power transport modes, supply food and sustenance, and employee mobility.
