Eco-Friendly Hotels in Delhi-NCR: A Study of Customer Motivations and Perceived Barriers

This research paper, titled "Eco-Friendly Hotels in Delhi-NCR: A Study of Customer Motivations and Perceived Barriers," aims to explore the key factors driving consumers to choose eco-friendly hotels and the barriers hindering their adoption in the Delhi-NCR region. The study adopts a survey-based methodology, collecting primary data from 240 respondents who have stayed at eco-friendly hotels, using a structured questionnaire distributed via online media platforms. The data, collected in November 2024, shed some light on the motives to book eco-friendly accommodations as well as the obstacles to booking such accommodations from a consumer's perspective. In terms of motivational factors, factor analysis was utilized while, for perceived barriers, Friedman's test was considered, as the data turned out to be non-normal. Three motivational factors were found through the results: environmental sustainability and hotel's green practices, health and well-being in eco-friendly environments, and support for sustainable tourism and personal commitment. In this respect, these factors emphasize the importance of the sustainability practices of the hotel, healthier environments, and personal values of customers to sustainability. However, the study identifies quite a few barriers in staying at eco-friendly hotels; these include perceived comfort not being as good, very few options available, untrustworthiness in their sustainability claims, and very high costs. Inconvenient locations, bad reviews, and limited amenities add to the list of troubles. The study concludes that though eco-friendly hotels are gaining popularity in Delhi-NCR, comfort, trust, and cost-related barriers can be overcome to make it attractive. By improving upon marketing, services, and transparency, eco-friendly hotels can attract environmentally conscious tourists and help to promote good sustainable tourism practices.