Sustainability in golf tourism takes centre stage at this year’s International Golf Travel Market (IGTM), Costa Daurada, Catalonia, Spain, with a number of golf courses, resorts and destinations showcasing new, positive environmental and social strategies.
During IGTM, November 11-14, 2013, a number of exhibitors will showcase their commitment to eco and ethical tourism, building on a partnership forged at last year’s show in The Algarve, Portugal, between IAGTO, the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, and the Golf Environment Organization (GEO).
Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive of GEO, said: “Since last year’s announcement, we have already seen an increasing number of golf courses, resorts and destinations adopting new approaches to advance resource efficiency, conserve nature and extend support to communities.
“IAGTO, Reed Travel Exhibitions and these forward-thinking resorts and tourism organisations deserve a great deal of credit for stepping forward and putting such an important matter now firmly on the golf tourism map.”
He added: “We look forward to further collaboration to extend our support to IAGTO members and the golf tourism industry as a whole; to help people unlock the real business benefits sustainability can bring, as well as to help golf play a more significant role in the global sustainability agenda.”
IAGTO Chief Executive Peter Walton said: “We are delighted that so many golf courses and resorts have come forward in the last year to support this initiative, which will have a direct impact on the industry’s long term success.
“We look forward to highlighting the commitment and achievements of our members at the IAGTO Awards this year, and, with the structure and support now provided by GEO, we are sure this will inspire an increasing number of clubs, resorts and destinations to embrace sustainability.”
Peter Grimster, Exhibition Manager at IGTM, affirmed: “With sustainability playing a more central role within the golf industry, we welcome the growing commitment shown by exhibitors, IAGTO and its members to promote and implement sustainable development strategies.”
IGTM has also added its commitment to further promote sustainability in golf tourism by supporting the international water aid charity, Just a Drop, by arranging fundraising initiatives throughout this year’s event, adding to the €4,000 already raised from exhibitor donations.
The 16th edition of IGTM will bring together the world’s leading golf tourism suppliers and buyers, as well as media from around the globe for four days of pre-scheduled appointments, networking opportunities and industry updates.
The event will conclude with the IAGTO Awards, sponsored by Etihad Airways, and the new IAGTO Sustainability Awards in conjunction with GEO, where leading golf destinations, golf resorts and suppliers will be honoured.
IGTM www.igtm.co.uk
Golf Environment Organization www.golfenvironment.org