The Power of Change Champions: Influencing Environmental Sustainability Strategies in Sri Lankan Hotels

Abstract

This study investigates the role of change champions in the implementation of environmental sustainability strategies within the Sri Lankan hotel industry.This study embraced a social constructionist perspective, utilizing comprehensive interviews and observational techniques to investigate the role of change champions in the Sri Lankan hotel sector. Grounded in theories from the fields of organizational change, stakeholder theory, and the resource-based view, we employed a qualitative multiple-case study methodology. This allowed us to collect data from multiple organizational levels within hotels and subsequently analyze it using thematic analysis. This research identifies four critical constraints such as financial constraints, developing people, managerial constraints, and administrative procedures that change champions are particularly required to work on.This study underscores the significance of the role of change champions as catalysts in recognizing organizational constraints and transforming them into opportunities for the successful implementation of environmental sustainability strategies. Moreover, it highlights the need to cultivate a culture of change champions within hotel organizations to strengthen the execution of environmental strategies. Further, this study revealed the importance of the implementation of the Green Governance Framework (GGF) which includes elements such as environment sustainability strategies and practices, sustainability performance, sustainability reporting, and sustainability assurance to drive consistence environmental sustainability performance. Furthermore, it fosters a robust sustainability management framework, aligning business strategies with economic, social, and environmental sustainability goals.This study offers a comprehensive model that synthesizes the complexities faced by the Sri Lankan hotel industry in its pursuit of environmental sustainability. By acknowledging constraints and strategically deploying change champions, organizations can embrace sustainable practices while bolstering their competitiveness and contributing to the nation's economic and environmental well-being. The study provides valuable insights for hoteliers, policymakers, and researchers seeking to drive environmental sustainability in the context of developing economies.