Journal of African Development

Background: Environmental sustainability has become a major concern in the hospitality industry due to increasing environmental pressures, regulatory expectations, and growing awareness among stakeholders. The housekeeping department is one of the most resource-intensive areas in hotel operations, consuming significant amounts of water, energy, and chemical cleaning agents. Therefore, the adoption of green cleaning practices is essential for promoting sustainable hotel operations, particularly in rapidly expanding hospitality regions such as the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR).

Objective: This study aimed to explore the green cleaning practices implemented in the housekeeping departments of selected star hotels in Delhi NCR. It sought to identify the types of environmentally sustainable practices adopted, examine the perceived benefits of green housekeeping, and understand the challenges faced in implementing these initiatives.

Methodology: The study employed a qualitative research design to gain in-depth insights into sustainable housekeeping practices. Data were collected from housekeeping managers, supervisors, and operational staff working in selected star-category hotels in Delhi NCR using purposive sampling. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted to gather detailed information on green cleaning procedures, organizational support, and operational barriers. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns, themes, and categories. Ethical considerations, including informed consent and confidentiality, were maintained throughout the study.

Results: The findings revealed that most star hotels had initiated eco-friendly cleaning practices such as the use of biodegradable cleaning products, microfiber cleaning systems, water-saving techniques, and proper waste segregation. These initiatives were largely supported by management commitment and organizational sustainability policies. Key benefits included reduced environmental impact, improved health and safety for housekeeping staff, and enhanced brand image among environmentally conscious guests. However, the study also identified challenges that hindered full implementation, including high initial investment costs, limited staff training, and the absence of standardized sustainability guidelines across the industry.

Conclusion: The study concludes that green cleaning practices play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability and improving operational efficiency in hotel housekeeping departments. Although star hotels in Delhi NCR have made progress in adopting sustainable practices, further efforts are needed to overcome cost barriers, enhance staff training, and establish clear industry-wide sustainability standards. The findings provide practical insights for hotel managers and policymakers seeking to strengthen sustainable housekeeping initiatives