Golf Business News – IGTM unveils partnership with GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation

The International Golf Travel Market, the leading event in the global golf travel industry, is proud to announce a partnership with the GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation, an international non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the sustainability and use of golf.

Founded more than 18 years ago as a pioneer in what has become a powerful movement in sports and sustainability, the GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation works closely with golf associations, institutions, promoters and tours around the world, sharing innovative solutions and credible recognition programs.

This partnership represents another important step forward in promoting sustainable tourism practices, combining both organizations' goals to drive positive environmental, social, and economic impacts by providing leadership and support to the global tourism sector.

Key objectives of the partnership:

• Promote sustainable tourism: IGTM and GEO will work together to raise awareness of the importance of sustainability in golf tourism, encouraging industry stakeholders to adopt responsible practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.
• Support Continuous Golf Development:The partnership will emphasize developing and maintaining golf courses that meet high standards of environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and resource efficiency.
• Academic Steps:IGTM will integrate GEO's expertise into its events, offering educational sessions, workshops, and resources highlighting the latest trends and best practices in sustainable golf tourism.
• Certification and Recognition:IGTM will help bring more promotion and visibility to resorts and destinations that have earned GEO Certified recognition for sustainable golf leadership.

Additionally, work is underway to better quantify and mitigate the environmental and climate impact of the event itself, including a comprehensive baseline of carbon emissions for the 2024 event.

“We are delighted to partner with the GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation,” said David Griffiths, Event Director, IGTM and ILTM Asia Pacific. “This partnership underscores our commitment to leading the golf tourism industry for a sustainable future. Together, we aim to promote positive change and create lasting value for all stakeholders in the global golf tourism ecosystem.”

Alan Grant, Director of Partnerships and Partnerships at the GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation, added: “Joining IGTM is a powerful opportunity to grow our mission. This partnership will help us to engage more deeply with the golf tourism industry, drive the adoption of sustainable practices that protect the environment, improve communities, and ensure the long-term success of golf tourism and global destinations.”