Green Choices: Exploring Environmental Responsible Practices and Their Impact on Guest Intention in Dinokeng Accommodation Establishments

Abstract

As the hospitality industry is expanding in developing countries, it simultaneously contributes to environmental burdens. The purpose of this article is to determine the perceptions of guests towards environmentally responsible practices (ERPs), also focusing on the concept of “greenwashing” and its influence on guest loyalty towards 34 accommodation establishments in Dinokeng, a wildlife conservation area in Gauteng Province. A descriptive survey design with a quantitative descriptive approach was followed, distributing 250 questionnaires, and receiving a total of 118 completed surveys. The data were analysed using Statistic Package for Social Science (SPSS) software version 23. Results showed that guests visiting these accommodation establishments were inclined to support ERPs. Accommodation providers in Dinokeng could use the study's insights to develop or refine their business strategies. If guests show a preference for environmentally responsible practices, establishments could leverage this information to attract more visitors and differentiate themselves in the market. The value of the study lies in exploration of the perceptions and influences surrounding environmentally responsible practices, providing essential insights for both academia and the hospitality industry.

Keywords

• accommodation
• environmentally responsible practices (erps)
• greenwashing
• water conservation
• waste management