Hospitality Moving Towards a Sustainable & Equitable Future

By: Sareena Kochar, Senior vice President- HK, The Lemon Tree Hotels

Sareena Kochar is an accomplished hospitality leader with nearly four decades of experience in housekeeping and new hotel openings. Renowned for her expertise in eco-friendly practices, leadership development, and creative arts, she has successfully led teams across top hotel chains and championed inclusive training initiatives.

In an engaging interaction with Women Entrepreneurs Review Magazine, Sareena talks about how The Lemon Tree Hotels are adopting sustainability and conscious design. She highlights how eco-friendly practices, creative decor, and inclusive leadership are redefining guest experiences in hospitality. Sreena also shares her perspective on the challenges faced by women hospitality leaders and shares sound advice to help them overcome all roadblocks.

Eco-Friendly & Inclusive Practices Shaping the Future of Hospitality

Our ESG Policy is well-defined for all of our hotels & it is put into practice across our properties.

Our Initiatives for the Planet

In an effort to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact, our organization has implemented several key initiatives. We have successfully reduced paper consumption, eliminated single-use plastics & enhanced our waste management practices.

Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in the use of uniforms made from sustainable fabrics and the replacement of plastic water bottles with glass alternatives filled at the onsite water-bottling plant in larger hotels.

Additionally, we are actively measuring and working to reduce carbon emissions, and we have adopted a third-day linen change policy to further decrease resource use. Our approach also includes the use of eco-friendly, green cleaning products, fixed dispensers for amenities, and focus on water conservation and recycling.

In our efforts to bring the outdoors indoors, we have opted to forgo traditional flower arrangements, reinforcing our commitment to an environmentally conscious operation.

Our Initiatives for Our People

We are committed to promoting gender equality with fostering good health and well-being within our organization. Our efforts extend to employing individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities (EWD) as well as those from economically and socially marginalized backgrounds (EcoSoc). By creating inclusive job opportunities, we aim to empower these individuals and enhance their quality of life.

Additionally, we actively participate in the "Soap for Hope" program, which supports economically deprived sections of society by providing essential hygiene products and resources. Through these initiatives, we strive to make a positive impact and contribute to a more equitable and healthy society.

Incorporating Design Consciousness to Meet Sustainability Goals

We adhere to the Biophilia concept, emphasizing the use of local products and materials in our construction processes. Currently, five of our hotels are certified by the Indian Green Building Council (I.G.B.C.), and we aspire to have all of our owned hotels achieve this certification.

Our design philosophy incorporates straight furniture, fixed beds, hard flooring, and laminates, all chosen for their ease of maintenance. Additionally, we implement drip irrigation systems, which help reduce manpower costs and enhance our top line.

Leadership Challenges Facing Women in Hospitality

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for overall well-being, yet many individuals face challenges in achieving it due to gender bias and unequal representation in leadership roles. Women, in particular, often encounter obstacles that hinder their advancement, resulting in a lack of diverse perspectives in decision-making positions.

This disparity not only affects the professional growth of individuals but also perpetuates systemic inequalities within organizations. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering an inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive and contribute effectively, leading to better outcomes for both employees and businesses alike.

LAST WORD: Message For Women Leaders in Hospitality

To achieve excellence in the workplace, it is essential not to compromise on substandard work; always strive for perfection in every task you undertake. Believing in yourself is crucial, as it empowers you to take ownership of your responsibilities and be honest with your work, colleagues, and boss.

Effective communication is key for setting achievable goals, ensuring that everyone is aligned and working towards the same objectives. Additionally, it's important to celebrate both successes and failures, as each experience offers valuable lessons that contribute to personal and professional growth.