Exploring the Role of ISO 21401 in Sustainable Hospitality Management

Enhancing Sustainable Hospitality: The Role of ISO 21401

In the evolving landscape of tourism, sustainability has become a focal point, and the ISO 21401 standard provides a framework for achieving that within the hospitality sector. Iris Brain LLC, a consulting company based in Tokyo, will exhibit at the upcoming "3rd Seminar on Strengthening Tourism Management and Networking for Business Operators" organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Tokyo Tourism Foundation. This event, scheduled for December 12, 2025, will emphasize the importance of sustainability in hotel management through ISO certification.

What is ISO 21401?

ISO 21401 is a management system standard established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), focusing on the sustainability of accommodation facilities such as hotels and inns. The full title is "ISO 21401:2018 Tourism and Related Services - Sustainability Management System for Accommodation Establishments - Requirements." Similar to ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), this standard facilitates third-party certification for organizations regarding their operational frameworks.

This certification evaluates the sustainability initiatives of accommodation providers from three key perspectives: economic, environmental, and social. Consequently, obtaining this certification necessitates strong leadership from management, a comprehensive vision for sustainability activities, and effective governance to translate these principles into practice.

Engaging with Industry Leaders

Iris Brain has helped the Kusatsu Onsen Hotel Village become Japan's first holder of ISO 21401 certification. During the seminar, the president of Nakazawa Village, Kazuhira Nakazawa, is expected to join participants, allowing for invaluable information exchange. The booth will not only showcase successful case studies but also serve as a platform for discussions around best practices in sustainable management.

What to Expect at Our Booth

Our booth will cater to various stakeholders in the hospitality industry, offering:

- A presentation of success stories, including insights from Kazuhira Nakazawa, demonstrating practical applications of ISO 21401.
- Distribution of materials outlining the steps for ISO 21401 implementation, along with operational tips to help facilities leverage this certification for inbound tourism and revenue enhancement.
- An open forum for attendees to ask questions and seek advice from our consulting team, led by experienced representatives from Iris Brain LLC.

Importance of Sustainable Tourism Management

The Japanese government is actively promoting sustainable tourism practices through initiatives like the "Sustainable Tourism Regional Development Strategy." ISO 21401 acts as a practical tool aligning with these efforts, providing accommodation operators a structured approach to enhancing sustainability and operational efficiency. By adopting this standard, businesses can improve their visibility and competitiveness in an increasingly eco-conscious market.

In addition to assisting hospitality operators, our participation at the seminar highlights opportunities for government officials and financial institutions to explore how ISO 21401 can impact lending assessments and contribute to community engagement efforts.

Event Details

- Event Name: 3rd Seminar on Strengthening Tourism Management and Networking for Business Operators [Event URL]
- Organizer: Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Tokyo Tourism Foundation
- Date: December 12, 2025, from 14:00 to 17:50 (Networking session from 16:50 to 17:50)
- Location: Jiyu Gakuen Myoshinkan, 2-31-3 Nishi Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo, Postal Code: 171-0021

About Iris Brain LLC

Founded in April 2016, originally as Iris Administrative Scrivener Office, Iris Brain LLC specializes in consulting for ISO certification and safety environment activities. With the advent of the SDGs, the firm expanded its focus on sustainability initiatives. Established to enhance services, Iris Brain LLC aims to guide organizations in achieving greater sustainability through expert consultancy.

For inquiries about becoming certified or to learn more about our offerings, please contact us: