Sustainability-Oriented Resilience and Regenerative Adaptations in the Hospitality Industry: Lessons from Gauteng

Abstract

The South African hospitality sector faces significant challenges, including economic instability, climate change, and evolving consumer preferences. To effectively address these issues, hotels must adopt innovative resilience and regenerative strategies. This study is based on insights from resilience theory, service-dominant logic (SDL), and ecological modernisation theory. To find out how these challenges are addressed in practice, the authors conducted semi-structured interviews with hotel managers in the province of Gauteng to collect data for an in-depth thematic analysis. Examples of resilience strategies mentioned by the interviewees include effective crisis management, income diversification, and building robust community partnerships. Asked about regenerative practices, the respondents listed waste reduction, enhancing biodiversity conservation, and investing in sustainable infrastructure. These practices correspond to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 and 1, which target the development of resilient infrastructure and poverty eradication. The authors advocate for a holistic approach to hospitality management, which integrates innovation, active community engagement, and environmental stewardship, fostering meaningful and enduring advancements within the industry.

Keywords

• Hospitality
• Resilience
• regenerative adaptations
• sustainable development goals