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The GBTA Foundation, the education and research foundation of the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) announced the expansion of Project ICARUS, the first global travel management sustainability body, representing the interests of the global travel and meetings industry. Project ICARUS, will include recognition and awards programs highlighting leading organizations in sustainability and a Global Advisory board with representatives from buyers, suppliers, academics and subject matter experts from Europe, North America, Asia, Australia/New Zealand and Latin America to provide expertise, leadership and guidance on sustainability.
“Sustainability is an issue of strategic importance for corporations and organizations in the business travel industry,” said Daphne Bryant, Executive Director. “Project ICARUS and GBTA’s expanded program on sustainability sets the bar for the entire industry, providing the research, guidance and now awarding recognition for those looking to develop or improve a global sustainability program.”
Project ICARUS, a GBTA Foundation initiative, started in 2006 by the Institute of Travel and Meetings (ITM) in the UK. Since that time it has grown to be the most widely recognized and respected Corporate Sustainability/Corporate Social Responsibility program within the global business travel and meeting industry. Led by national and international travel buyers, managers and their suppliers, it acts as the definitive source of information, education and support for a wide range of sustainability issues in the corporate travel and meetings industry.
Members of the Global Advisory Board include representatives from the following companies: PwC, Cranfield University, Sabre Holdings, Wireless Advocates LLC, Australian Federal Police.
The Project ICARUS sustainability Gold Medal recognition program will be the focal point for recognizing organizations dedicated to serving the needs of the business travel and meetings industry and who are willing to learn, share, lead and above all take action in the drive to greater sustainability. The Outstanding Achievement Awards will be made annually on a regional basis to recognize leading buyers, sellers, intermediaries and sustainability organizations that have made a special contribution during the year.
“GBTA has always been on the forefront of key business travel issues and we are thrilled to recognize fellow leaders that improve sustainability best practices through these awards,” said Bernard Harrop, head of sustainability, Project ICARUS.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
