How Important Is Sustainability Education to Hospitality Programs?

Abstract

Although sustainability is at the forefront globally, awareness of its importance within the hospitality curriculum of universities in the United States has been limited. This study appraised importance of sustainability education in hospitality curriculums by assessing students, educators, and industry leaders in the United States. Results revealed significant differences between these stakeholders as to environmental attitudes, behaviors, interest in sustainability, and the significance of environmental concerns in a hospitality curriculum. Results also showed how the stakeholders' views were different with regard to the relevance of environmental topics in the hospitality curriculum and how best sustainability theory and practices can be taught.

Keywords:

• hospitality
• education
• sustainability
• management
• green initiatives