Review of the ecological environment-responsible business approach; An evaluation swot analysis of chain hotels in İstanbul

The rapid transformation of the world is creating profound impacts on the environment, threatening the sustainability of the future. Individual and institutional responsibilities are of great importance for environmental protection and a sustainable future. In this context, business managers need to adopt and implement an environmentally conscious management approach. However, this approach brings various challenges for leaders known as "green managers." These managers are tasked with forecasting demand for eco-friendly products, developing safer and healthier products, designing packaging methods that cause less pollution, optimizing production processes to minimize environmental harm, reducing hazardous waste, and managing technological risks. They also bear the responsibility of conserving non-renewable natural resources and safeguarding the health of both employees and society. Businesses must recognize that economic development and environmental protection are not conflicting goals but a common purpose that requires collaborative effort. With this understanding, sustainable strategies should be developed and implemented. An environmentally conscious management approach is crucial not only for ensuring environmental sustainability but also for businesses to maintain their existence in the long term. This study provides a conceptual framework by focusing on the fundamental pillars of environmental management. A SWOT analysis was conducted by examining the environmental policies and practices of 4- and 5-star hotels in Istanbul. Identified strengths include energy and water efficiency programs, waste management practices, and the use of renewable energy. Weaknesses involve waste production and the lack of sustainability policies. Opportunities encompass the rise of eco-friendly tourism trends vii and the potential to participate in green certification programs, while threats include increasing environmental regulations and competition from rival hotels lacking environmental sensitivity. Based on the findings, strategies such as increasing energy efficiency and strengthening waste reduction and recycling programs are proposed to enhance the environmental performance of hotels and gain a competitive advantage.