A new report from PwC Middle East shows that climate change and resource scarcity will have a significant impact on the Middle East’s hospitality industry.
Dr. Martin Berlin, deals partner at PwC Middle East presented the report, Global megatrends… and their impact on the Middle East’s travel and tourism industry’ at GM Leaders Conference on 3 May at W Dubai Al Habtoor City.
He commented: “Climate change and resource scarcity is very important. If you look at the population growth we are expecting, we will require 50% more energy, 40% more water and 45% more food compared to current levels.
“It’s important to look at these factors and address them proactively before it’s too late. For example, in the GCC, 80% of the water is coming out of de-salination, which is very energy consuming and over a long period, is not sustainable. How we deal with water in the hospitality industry is going to play an important role going forward – we need to start managing this now.”
Dr. Berlin suggested that instead of allowing guests unlimited access to water, this should be restricted.
“We need to educate and raise awareness, for example we’re already regulating the water in the shower a certain amount but instead of the customer volunteering, it would be about forcing the customer to save the environment.”
In addition to climate change and water scarcity, the report highlighted four other major shifts in the industry, including demographic and social change, a shift in global economic powers, rapid urbanization and technological breakthroughs.
The GM Leaders Conference hosted by Hotel News Middle East, featured a wide range of debates and discussions from some of the leading hotel general managers in the Middle East and senior tourism figures.
The event was presented by Rikan and supported by Platinum Sponsor, Du; Luxury Fleet Partner, Cadillac; Hotel of Choice, W Dubai Al Habtoor City; Associate Sponsor TSSC; Lunch Sponsor ResNet; Pulsar Foodstuff Trading and The Gourmet Olive Market, TCL, Lavazza-Eurocoffee, EP World, Electrolux, Assa Abloy and Isukoshi.
