Fifty Shades Greener, the sustainability training and certification provider, has launched a new sustainability event which aims to place Ireland’s tourism sector firmly under the spotlight. The event will take place on Tuesday April 28, at Dublin’s Mayson Hotel.

With the global tourism sector accounting for 7.3% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions annually, Less Shades, More Action will explore how hospitality businesses can cut their carbon footprint and operational costs through green upskilling and people-led action.

While emissions reduction can often centre on building upgrades or design changes, Fifty Shades Greener focuses on empowering the people involved in the day-to-day operations of a business. According to the company’s own research, by upskilling and training their staff on sustainable practices, hospitality businesses can achieve up to a 30% reduction in energy usage and costs.

‘Growing Disconnect’

“Hospitality businesses across Ireland are built on the very landscapes and cultural heritage that draw visitors in,” said Raquel Noboa, founder, Fifty Shades Greener.

“Yet there is a growing disconnect between profiting from that natural beauty and taking responsibility for protecting it.”

Fifty Shades Greener’s event will explore how people-first sustainability improves margins, culture, and operational resilience for hospitality businesses.

With comedian, Barry Murphy, set to MC the event, guests will also hear from Dr Karl Thomas, founder of training company, Creatovation; Dr Susan Gill, Manager of Climate Strategy and Skills, SOLAS; and Jason Conlon, Assistant HR and Sustainability Manager, Mespil Hotel.

‘Responsibility To Act’

The event is open to all members of the hospitality sector including general managers, green managers, designers, educators and sustainability advocates.

“The fact is that hospitality businesses have a responsibility to act,” said Raquel Noboa. “Implementing green upskilling and training for staff offers a practical solution – that benefits both the environment and businesses’ bottom line.”

She added, “This event is an opportunity for the hospitality sector to learn and move from awareness into action. Small steps, taken by the right people, can have a meaningful impact.”