Singapore-led initiative seeks to integrate sustainability into tourism operations

The Sustainable Impact Value Pioneer (SIVP) initiative was launched in Singapore on October 23, 2026, bringing together organisations across industries to support the adoption of sustainability practices ahead of several regional and international initiatives in 2027.

The launch was themed Creating Value Across Industries: Shape What’s Next for ASEAN.

GUAVA, which specialises in hospitality guest amenities and environmental, social and governance solutions, is SIVP’s implementation partner.

Its CEO Gabriel Tan, who was named the UN Global Compact’s 2022 SDG Pioneer for Circular Economy, explained that SIVP operates on a non-fee, participatory contribution model that can be applied across industries.

“The SIVP philosophy is start with what you have, and create value together,” he added.

The SIVP ecosystem seeks to connect governments, multilateral organisations, destinations and industry stakeholders with knowledge organisations and enablers, including academia, subject-matter experts, industry associations, media and event organisers, as well as financial services providers and multinational companies.

“2027 is where global and regional paths converge,” noted Tan, referring to the UN International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism, Singapore’s ASEAN chairmanship and Vietnam’s hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum.

He challenged the industry to reconsider how sustainability initiatives could increase revenue within existing budgets, introduce well-being without spa facilities, engage employees beyond occasional events, support communities without increasing staff workloads, and improve the visibility of sustainability practices in daily operations.

SIVP’s framework covers three areas: well-being, community impact and carbon reduction. Its proposed measures include integrating well-being activities into guest experiences before, during and after a stay, supporting communities through daily operations, and reducing emissions and waste associated with amenities, stationery, slippers and other consumables.

Meanwhile, an ASEAN Working Group on Tourism and Sustainable Impact Value is being established through a partnership involving ASEAN Business Advisory Council, SIVP and GUAVA. The initiative aims to build on regional commitments to sustainable and resilient tourism ahead of the 2027 ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, supporting efforts to protect local environments, address climate impacts and ensure tourism development benefits micro, small and medium enterprises.