Focus on sustainable practices

The Gold Coast will host the Australian Institute of Hotel Engineering 2009 Update Conference this August, as industry experts converge on the region to discuss the latest innovations in hotel sustainability.

Featuring an impressive line up of national and international speakers, the conference will provide a forum for influencing greater sustainable practices within the industry.

Speciality industry suppliers will also have the opportunity to showcase the latest technologies in hotel engineering products, tools and techniques.

Keynote speaker Tim Lockyer, the chairman of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management, will discuss trigger points and must haves in the hotel industry.

Over the years there have been many attempts to better understand the factors that influence the selection of hotel accommodation by guests.

For managers and practitioners to attain financial viability, this is an important question as it assists with future planning and investment.

Lockyer will discuss research undertaken over a number of years in many countries that helps to give a greater understanding of the issues involved with this question.

In particular, focus will be given to what the author refers to as ‘trigger points’ and ‘must haves’; explaining why such issues are important in the modern hospitality industry.

Water efficiency and energy efficiency panels will also stimulate discussion around the best strategies and tactics to implement for hotels to achieve the greatest levels of sustainability.

The conference will take place on August 27 and 28 at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

More info at: www.aiheupdate.com.au.