Strategic Role of Knowledge Management in Enhancing Sustainability in the Hotel and Restaurant Industry: A Study of Nagpur District

Abstract

The shift in emphasis towards sustainability has mostly altered the mode of operation in the hospitality industry particularly in the emerging cities such as Nagpur District. This paper analyses strategic value of Knowledge Management (KM) in the hotel and restaurant industry in promoting sustainability practices. One of the enablers that help organizations take up a responsibility of becoming environmental, socially inclusive and economically viable is Knowledge Management that encompasses creation of knowledge, storage, sharing and utilization of knowledge. The research is descriptive and analytical based paper where a sample of a few hotels and restaurants within Nagpur District is chosen. The main data source is interviews and questionnaires with managerial staff and employees but the secondary one is information on industry report, journals and policy documents. The research study delves into KM practices effects on sustainable resource use, waste management, energy conservation, customer consciousness and decision making in an organization. Results show that KM systems that work successfully can be used to provide opportunities to innovate in terms of sustainability, boost operational efficiency, and employee engagement. Firms with a culture of knowledge sharing and life-long learning are more resilient in matters to sustainability. The investigations however also present some formidable challenges, including incompetent technological systems, lack of awareness, and reluctance to change among the stakeholders. The paper ends with conclusion that Knowledge Management strategies when implemented in the structure of organizations can be significant in making it sustainable in the hospitality sector. It suggests using digital knowledge platforms, development training as well as policy support to empower KM initiatives. The research has provided effective information to policy makers in the industry players and academicians who would like to see the sustainability of hospitality industries in the region by implementing knowledge based strategies.