Green Hotel Conceptualization And Strategies Based on The Tri Hita Karana Philosophy to Promote Sustainability
N. Trianasari

Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to propose a conceptual framework to explore how the local philosophy of Tri Hita Karana can be used as the basis of implementing green hotel concept and promote sustainability. The sustainable tourism literature has shown an ample amount of research on green hotels with dominant focus on Western perspective. Little work has been dedicated to integrate the local wisdom in the practice of green hotels.

Design/Methodological Approach - This work proposed a conceptual framework based on findings from reviewing key concept and theories of green hotel operations and sustainable development along with relevant literature in hospitality and tourism service.

Findings - The proposed conceptual framework can be used to test empirically and replicate strategies for green hotels to promote sustainability. Based on the Tri Hita Karana concept, there are three distinctive domains that are useful to implement the environmentally sound initiatives in the hotel daily operations. They are company relationship with 1) the Creator (parahyangan)- 2) other human fellows (pawongan)- and 3) with nature or environment (palemahan). Balancing these domains in the applications of green hotels strategies may lead to the sustainability and thus, the wellbeing of all involved.

Implication - This paper highlights the importance of integrating the Tri Hita Karana concept into the practice of green hotels. A synthetic definition of green hotel can help hotels to formulate key green strategies that can be effectively used to meet the sustainable development criteria. Consequently, hotels can incorporate smaller division strategy such as operational management, human resources management, marketing management, and financial management.

Originality - Based on a review on key theories and relevant literature, this study provides a more holistic conceptualization of green hotel using the Tri Hita Karana Philosophy and strategies that may serve as the basis of moving toward sustainability.

Keywords: green hotel, sustainable tourism, Tri Hita Karana

Topic: Green Management and economy