Key Components of Eco-Friendly Hotel Management in Phuket Province
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Abstract
The growth of the tourism and hotel industries has increased resource consumption and environmental impacts. Enhancing eco-friendly hotel management is therefore essential for driving sustainable tourism, particularly in Phuket, a world-class tourism destination. This study aims to identify the key components of eco-friendly hotel management in Phuket Province, Thailand. A quantitative research approach was employed, using a structured questionnaire developed based on the Green Hotel Standard and the Green Leaf Certification. The population consisted of 56 certified hotels in Phuket, from which 38 hotels participated in the study. The sample included 380 hotel employees representing various departments and managerial levels. The questionnaire utilized a 7-point Likert scale, and content validity was verified through the Index of Item-Objective Congruence (IOC). Data were analyzed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). The results revealed seven key components of eco-friendly hotel management: (1) campaign and environmental awareness promotion, (2) media, symbols, landscape, and green spaces, (3) spa and health massage, (4) energy management, (5) water management and wastewater treatment, (6) waste management based on the 3R principle, and (7) environmental management policy. These findings provide strategic guidelines for advancing environmental sustainability in the hotel sector, which contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reduce ecological impact, and foster long-term sustainable tourism. The results also offer practical recommendations for hotel managers, policymakers, and tourism stakeholders aiming to enhance eco-friendly practices and environmental responsibility within the hospitality industry. Overall, this research emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainable practices into hotel operations to promote environmental conservation and sustainable tourism development in Phuket.
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