Page 36 - Sustaining Accommodation SMES

4 Sustainability Standards as Enablers of the Sustainable Transition

more consistent adherence to environmental procedures (Kasim, 2009;
Testa & Iraldo, 2010; Chan & Hawkins, 2010). These systems also con-
tribute to organisational learning by formalising sustainability respon-
sibilities and embedding them within training, procurement and oper-
ational planning. In this sense, iso 21401 is likely to serve as a driver
of long-term cultural and behavioural transformation, strengthening the
institutional basis for sustainability across the accommodation sector.
The broader impact of iso 21401 ultimately depends on its adop-
tion and integration within hotel groups, independent properties and
destination-level governance structures. While uptake may initially be
stronger among larger or internationally affiliated hotels, the standard’s
compatibility with existing management systems and its sector-specific
orientation makes it a promising tool for supporting the sustainable tran-
sition beyond early adopters. By embedding sustainability into manage-
rial routines, clarifying expectations and enabling consistent evaluation,
iso 21401 contributestothe gradual reconfigurationof practices,norms
and performance standards that underpin a sustainable tourism system.

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