IGTM announces partnership with GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation

International Golf Travel Market, the leading event for the global golf travel industry, has announced a partnership with the GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation, the international non-profit focused on advancing sustainability in and through golf.

Founded more than 18 years ago as a pioneer in what has become a powerful movement in sport and sustainability, GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation focuses on working alongside golf bodies and wider stakeholders, providing strategy, innovation, solutions and credible recognition.

This collaboration represents a step forward in promoting sustainable tourism practices, aligning both organizations missions to drive positive environmental, social, and economic impacts by offering 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 about the importance of sustainability in golf tourism, encouraging industry stakeholders to adopt responsible practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.
• Support sustainable golf development: The partnership will emphasize developing and maintaining golf courses that meet the highest standards of environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and resource efficiency.
• Educational initiatives: 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 added promotion and visibility to resorts and venues that have earned the GEO Certified® label for leadership in sustainable golf.  

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

"We are thrilled to partner with GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation," IGTM event director David Griffiths said. "This partnership underscores our commitment to leading the golf tourism industry towards a more sustainable future. Together, we aim to inspire positive change and create lasting value for all global golf tourism ecosystem stakeholders."

"Joining forces with IGTM is a powerful opportunity to amplify our mission,” said Alan Grant, director of partnerships and engagement at GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation. “This collaboration will help us engage more deeply with the golf travel industry, driving the adoption of sustainable practices that protect the environment, enhance communities, and ensure the long-term success of golf tourism and the places it touches worldwide."