Hello friend,

As we step into the final quarter of 2024, we are excited to share what we are working on to amplify solution-driven sustainability conversations.

We believe that now, more than ever, is the time to connect you with value-aligned leaders and businesses to real and long-lasting change across the travel and hospitality sectors.

Hint: We’re taking the AST Forum to one of Asia’s most beautiful, yet vulnerable, destinations. An area that’s on the frontlines of climate change as evidenced by the havoc wreaked by Super Typhoon Yagi.

For this week’s Feature Story, we are thrilled to bring to you some of the key highlights from the Hotel Design Summit at the 7th Hospitality Philippines Conference, for which we were a media partner. Our Co-founder Rhea Vitto Tabora had the pleasure of not only attending but also moderating one of the panel discussions.

Thanks for being part of this journey with us. Stay tuned as we’ve got a lot more in store!

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Designing the Future: Innovations and Sustainability at the Hotel Design Summit HPC2024

The 7th Hospitality Philippines Conference (HPC2024), held on September 11-12, 2024, at Marriott Manila, gathered over 500 professionals eager to advance the hospitality and tourism industry.

With insights from nearly 100 industry experts and support from over 40 sponsors and partners, the event was a lively exchange of strategies and solutions.

While 89% of the attendees were from the Philippines, the presence of delegates from nine other countries added a splash of international flavor, highlighting the widespread interest in the Philippines' hospitality landscape.

Day one featured:

• Hotel Investment Summit: deep-diving into the latest trends and strategies, giving everyone a comprehensive view of the evolving investment landscape in the Philippines.

• Hotel Design Summit: discussing how to integrate cultural and environmental elements into hotel design, focusing on making spaces that are not just aesthetic but also functional and eco-friendly.

Day two spotlighted the Hotel Revenue Summit. Speakers shared creative ways to boost profits using technology, data analytics, and new revenue strategies.

Here are the key takeaways from the panel discussions at the Hotel Design Summit.

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Designing for Sustainability: Innovations in Architecture and Hospitality

Buildings are a major contributor to global energy-related emissions, accounting for 37%, according to the World Green Building Council's Advancing Net Zero Status Report 2023. 

Back in 2019, it was even higher at 39%, with 28% from operational emissions and 11% from materials and construction.

However, integrating sustainable practices from the design phase can slash energy usage and operational costs by nearly 30%, as International Energy Agency reported in 2019. It's not just good for the planet; it's a financially sound strategy.

Gaurang Khemka, Founder & Design Director of URBNarc, focuses on a comprehensive design approach. From master planning to the final interior touches, he believes sustainability should be integrated at every step. This holistic approach ensures that every element of a project works towards a sustainable future.

Arch. David Cabigao, CEO & Principal Architect of KDAS Group, highlighted the growing importance of sustainability in reshaping guest expectations and emphasized using local, sustainable materials. "Sustainability means that if your material actually came through so many carbon exposures when it was produced, it doesn't really become sustainable."

Christopher Chua, Founding Partner & Creative Director of KulörGroup, pointed out the need to balance the three pillars of sustainability: people, planet, and profit. "Sustainable design must not only be environmentally sound but also economically feasible and socially responsible."

Architect Romolo V. Nati, CEO & Chairman of Italpinas Development Corporation, shared insights into passive green design strategies, such as enhancing natural ventilation and implementing rainwater harvesting systems. "These sustainable features in our projects not only save on costs but enhance the guest experience," offering both financial savings and improved customer satisfaction.

The session also explored innovative solutions like solar-powered systems and bamboo architecture. Nati discussed the benefits of solar photovoltaic panels as a renewable energy source that reduces reliance on traditional power grids.

While bamboo architecture is praised for its renewability and fast growth, it comes with its own set of challenges. Chua emphasized the need to consider local climate conditions, as bamboo's durability can be compromised by moisture and molds. Cabigao advised a long-term maintenance strategy: "Think long-term with a 3-, 5-, and 10-year budget plan to accommodate bamboo's lifecycle needs."

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Crafting Atmosphere Through Design Integration

»»» Go deeper into how sustainable design can subtly shape the atmosphere of hospitality spaces.

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Designing for Tomorrow's Traveler

»»» Read about how the integration of AI can create smart rooms that adapt to guest habits, enhancing convenience and energy efficiency.

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Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Solutions

»»» Learn how a small resort in Pangasinan is on track to save 70% of energy costs, and the impact of this achievement.

We’re excited to invite you to participate in an important survey that could redefine sustainability standards in Asia’s hotel and travel industry.

With over 300 ecolabels worldwide, there is widespread confusion about which certifications genuinely promote sustainability and add value versus those that may merely serve as marketing tools.

As someone who’s deeply involved in the tourism sector, your perspective is key to helping us better understand the value of sustainability certifications.

With only 16 questions, it will only take under 5 minutes to complete. Your responses will be kept completely confidential.

»» You’ll contribute to creating a guide that compares how various sustainability certifications align with the unique needs and expectations of our industry in Asia. 

»» To thank you for your time and valuable feedback, you will receive an exclusive digital report packed with the key findings and real-life case studies.

»» This report is designed to give you important insights to enhance your sustainability strategies.

When you're ready, here’s how we can help you grow your business:

»» Hire us to produce long-form content: newsletters, impact reports, e-books, and business case studies.

»» Advertise with us: advertorials, sponsored features, and re-aired features.

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