WATER MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ADOPTED BY STAR- GRADED HOTELS IN CENTRAL PROVINCE, SRI LANKA

Abstract

This research endeavors to investigate the water management strategies employed by star-graded hotels situated within Central Province, Sri Lanka, with a specific focus on the maintenance of a reliable and sustainable water supply. A qual- itative research approach was used, and data collection encompassed 15 in-depth in- terviews conducted with executive-level managers representing a purposively se- lected cohort of 15 distinguished hotels in the region. Four thematic domains were identified during this investigation: The results revealed that, water is recognized as an indispensable business resource by the hotels, with an explicit emphasis placed on its strategic significance in the context of their operations. Measures are implemented to manage the potential risk of water scarcity, aligning organizational practices with the principles of sustainable water resource management. Enhancing water use effi- ciency and fostering a culture of water conservation emerges as a central theme within the hotel industry. This signifies a commitment to environmental responsibility and resource efficiency. Corporate water stewardship is gaining prominence as hotels in- creasingly advocate for sustainable water supply practices within the purview of their local communities. The implications derived from these findings highlighted the ne- cessity of adopting a comprehensive and integrative approach to water management within the hotel sector. Such an approach extends beyond operational efficiency to encompass broader dimensions of environmental sustainability and active community engagement. In conclusion, this research makes a substantive contribution by provid- ing valuable insights into the water management strategies employed by star-graded hotels, casting light on their evolving role as conscientious custodians of this indis- pensable resource. The significance of this study resides in its potential to inform and influence hotel management practices, shape policy development, and inform sustain- ability initiatives, all within the broader context of water resource management in Central Province, Sri Lanka.