Vermicomposting as an adopted sustainability practice in a selected hotel in Metro Manila

Solid waste management remains a persistent challenge in the hospitality sector, with implications for environmental sustainability, operational efficiency, and corporate reputation. Although vermicomposting has been applied in agricultural contexts, its adoption within hotel operations remains underexplored. This study addresses this gap by examining how vermicomposting is adopted in hotel settings, how it shapes ecological outcomes and organizational practices. Using a case study of a luxury hotel in Manila, data were collected through immersion, semi-structured interviews, on-site observations, and document analysis. A nuanced understanding is needed to study how hotels implement vermicomposting because researchers need to examine both the challenges hotels face during its implementation and the positive aspects that come from this process, which in tun affects both ecological results and organizational procedures. Theoretically, the WORM Model extends sustainability and waste management frameworks by linking waste-to-value practices with organizational dynamics and brand-driven profitability in hospitality contexts. Practically, the study offers step-by-step guidance for hotels seeking to integrate vermicomposting into their operations and advance circular economy principles. Policy-wise, the findings suggest opportunities for tourism and environmental agencies in Asia to incorporate vermicomposting into sustainability standards and provide targeted support for hotels and MSMEs.