Greening the Savannah: Environmental Pathways to Zero GHG Emissions in Kenya’s Game Lodges and Tented Camps

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between environmental sustainability practices and the adoption of zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emission practices among lodges and tented camps in Kenya’s Southern Tourism Circuit. Grounded in the Triple Bottom Line Framework (People, Planet, and Profit) and Stakeholder Theory, the study employed a quantitative research design and used multiple linear regression to assess the impact of six environmental sustainability components: Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Operational Resource Efficiency, Environmental Policies and Purchasing Practices, Sustainable Infrastructure, Renewable Energy and Composting, And External Institutional Partnerships. Findings revealed that the regression model was statistically significant (R² = 0.465, F (6,66) = 9.545, p < 0.001), indicating that environmental sustainability practices collectively explain 46.5% of the variance in the adoption of zero GHG emission practices. Five components were found to significantly influence adoption: Renewable Energy and Composting (β = 0.522), Operational Resource Efficiency (β = 0.506), Community and Stakeholder Engagement (β = 0.312), Environmental Policies and Purchasing (β = 0.265), and External Institutional Partnerships (β = 0.242). However, Sustainable Infrastructure (β = 0.009, p = 0.424) did not show a significant impact. These results suggest that strategic operational, policy, and community-driven initiatives are more impactful than infrastructure development alone in promoting zero GHG emissions. The study underscores the need for integrated sustainability efforts, particularly those emphasising renewable energy use, efficient resource management, stakeholder involvement, and institutional collaboration. The findings provide valuable insights for tourism operators, policymakers, and sustainability advocates targeting an advancement of climate-resilient practices within the hotel sector