Sustainability assessment of hotels In Malta

Abstract

Global tourism has been increasing, with the Mediterranean region being no exception to this expansion. This creates challenges between the need for increased economic growth and the protection of the environment. The purpose of this study is to analyse the sustainability practices of hotels in Malta with a focus on water and energy management and to a lesser extent waste; no such research on this subject has to date been undertaken. The data needed for this study was gained through the circulation of questionnaires. The research methods employed were both quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative method was given preference in view that it was deemed more suitable to determine the relationship between variables. The results show that currently the higher rated hotels carry out the most sustainable practices. A number of key factors influence this trend including but not limited to: the allocation of higher budgets towards environmental causes; Franchisees have to undertake the challenging environmental policies adopted by the Franchisor albeit they often receive adequate financial and technical support from the Franchisor; and stringent criteria imposed for the acquisition and retention of ECO Certification necessitates active environmental management plans to be in place.