Investing in social responsibility to achieve full sustainability

Abstract

Purpose This article aims to analyze sustainability in tourism as the unavoidable path for the sector and the planet. Design/methodology/approach Argues that through sustainability, it will be possible to develop companies in full harmony with the already evident needs of the planet and that it is urgent that they continue to evolve, without further erosion by creating a firm and sustainable basis for the future. Findings Proposes that it is necessary to think about social responsibility to achieve full sustainability but that above all, each of us—individually and collectively, has a role to play. In fact, for this path of sustainability to be followed, it is necessary to create a sustainable business environment that companies, in particular the smaller ones, can adopt. Originality/value The article presents the views and main initiatives of the Association of Hotels, Restaurants and Similar Establishments of Portugal as they interconnect social responsibility and full sustainability and illustrates these with several projects and a best practice case in energy management for restaurants.