MICEBOOK - POWER30 BROCHURE 10 (1) - Flipbook - Page 15
“The rationale for pursuing certifications is
twofold—it aligns with our internal strategy,
values, and commitment to ESG principles
while also serving a crucial reputational and
commercial role. Third-party independent
validation helps demonstrate our commitment
both internally and externally. Telling clients
that you have sustainability initiatives isn’t
enough. They want proof—data, policies, and
real-world impact. And at Amex GBT, we believe
in the importance of third party verified and
accredited certifications.”
Amex GBT engages with internal and external
stakeholders to share knowledge, foster
collaboration, and promote sustainability
across the event ecosystem, ensuring clients
can meet smarter, more sustainably, and more
inclusively. It has developed “Sustainability
Essentials” checklists in collaboration with
major hotel chains, ensuring measurable
sustainability efforts at partner venues.
Acknowledging that air travel is a major
emissions source in meetings and events, Amex
GBT is actively investing in Sustainable Aviation
Fuel (SAF) and has partnered with Shell Aviation
to support SAF development and adoption,
advocating for industry-wide change.
Urrutia believes encouraging and supporting
SAF adoption is critical for long-term
sustainability: “we must push innovation and
promote SAF adoption as it is currently the only
recognised solution to decarbonise air travel.
Change won’t happen unless we invest in it.”
The fact that sustainability is deeply integrated
at Amex GBT has helped the business attract
and retain talent. “We see a lot of internal
engagement within Amex GBT through our
employee-led groups, including Green at GBT,
which empowers colleagues to take action
on sustainability. It’s incredibly motivating for
employees to be part of something positive,”
says Urrutia.
“On the social responsibility side, our internal
employee groups have driven numerous
initiatives, particularly around diversity, equity,
and inclusion (DEI). In the events space, DEI
has become increasingly visible over the
past few years—where previously, topics like
neurodiversity were rarely acknowledged.
“We are embedding inclusivity into our
meetings and events delivery, ensuring
accessibility for all attendees. This commitment
has contributed to high employee retention
rates. Ultimately, when people feel a sense
of belonging, engagement and satisfaction
naturally follow.”
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