Sustainability Policy – Incentive Travel Colombia

Responsible corporate events, sustainable impact

Definition of our sustainable tourism policy:

It is a set of principles, standards, and guidelines that focus on the execution of the company’s operations, directing them towards environmentally respectful, socially responsible, and economically viable practices for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions & Events) segment.

In other words, this is a formal commitment by Incentive Travel Colombia to minimize any negative impact on the environment and maximize positive value for local communities through responsible corporate events and incentive programs.

Taking into consideration the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental repercussions that currently exist, along with those that may arise in the future, we contribute to the development of activities that stem from the needs of corporate clients, destinations, host communities and, in general, the tourism industry and the surrounding environment.

Objective:

Incentive Travel Colombia understands the importance of sustainability as a pillar for the consolidation of the MICE sector in Colombia. We create a sustainability policy with the aim of managing our operations by adopting responsible practices that enhance competitiveness. This allows us to strengthen our brand, work in harmony with economic production, environmental conservation, and the efficient use of Colombia’s cultural, human, and natural capital, specifically in the context of corporate events and incentive programs.

Key elements of our sustainability policy in the MICE sector and our Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

Our policy aligns with the SDGs, especially those related to climate action, life below water, life on land, sustainable cities and communities, decent work and economic growth, and partnerships to achieve these goals. At Incentive Travel Colombia, we believe in responsible and sustainable MICE tourism through our operations.

Environmental Sustainability – Protecting the environment

For us, it is essential to minimize negative environmental impacts by adopting practices that allow for the efficient use of natural resources in corporate events and activities.

Strategic Partnership with REDD+ Matavén:

We have fundamentally evolved our approach to environmental impact. Incentive Travel Colombia is incredibly proud to focus our efforts on a major strategic partnership with REDD+ Matavén.

• Verified Impact: Through this agreement, we directly support an Indigenous-led forest conservation program that provides verified carbon credits.
• Protecting Ecosystems: This partnership guarantees that our environmental efforts go toward protecting Colombia’s vital biodiversity and transitional forests on a massive scale.
• Community Empowerment: By backing REDD+ Matavén, we ensure our sustainability goals actively support the livelihoods and autonomy of local indigenous communities.
• 🔗 Read the full details about our agreement with REDD+ Matavén.

Eco-efficient events:

• We implement zero-waste practices in events when possible.
• We use biodegradable and reusable materials in setups and decorations.
• We promote the use of digital technology to reduce printed materials.
• We efficiently manage energy use in events and activities.

Conservation and respect for natural resources:

• We reject any illicit exploitation of natural resources.
• We stand strictly against the illegal handling and commercialization of exotic species, damage or destruction of natural resources, environmental pollution, illegal fishing, poaching, and invasion of areas of special ecological importance.
• We maintain our “leave no trace” philosophy in all outdoor corporate activities.
• We pay special attention not to disturb wild animals, birds, or plants in their natural habitat.

Economic Sustainability

Fostering local economic development:

• We work with local suppliers and communities for corporate events, creating decent jobs and contributing to the economic development of the regions visited.
• We prioritize hiring local services for catering, entertainment, decoration, and event logistics.
• We support small entrepreneurs who promote new businesses and tourism alternatives for the corporate segment.
• We include authentic Colombian experiences in our incentive programs.

Well-being of our suppliers and collaborators:

• We offer a safe and healthy work environment.

Supply chain management:

• We select suppliers who share similar sustainability values and use responsible practices.
• We require full compliance with Colombian regulations and adherence to legal standards established for the tourism and events sector.
• We promote the use of products and services with environmental and social certifications.

Fair trade policies:

• We continuously seek new suppliers and products that boost regions seeking to develop their MICE tourism potential.
• We participate in networking events focused on sustainability and responsible tourism.

Financial planning and security:

• We maintain stable operations throughout the year to ensure financial stability for operators and guides.
• We offer fair contracts and timely payments to our local suppliers.
• We invest a percentage of our profits in sustainable development projects.

Social Sustainability

Cultural appreciation:

• We broaden Colombia’s cultural heritage and promote community tourism by involving local communities in the design and development of our corporate experiences.
• We include authentic cultural elements in our events and incentive programs.
• We respect and preserve local traditions in all our events.

Learning and excellence:

• We have experienced staff and guides in conservation and environmental issues.
• We transfer this knowledge to our corporate clients so they can also learn in-depth about the traditions, culture, and natural resources of the region.

Support for the local community:

• We develop MICE tourism alternatives that support programs promoted by NGOs specialized in community work.
• We create CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) opportunities for our clients.
• We aim to include corporate volunteering and social impact activities in our programs.

Inclusion and diversity:

• We promote gender equality in our team and in the communities we work with.
• We encourage participation of ethnic minorities and vulnerable groups in our programs.

Positive social impact:

• We develop specific team-building programs with social impact.
• We create partnerships with foundations and NGOs to develop CSR activities for our clients.

MICE Sector-Specific Sustainability

Responsible event management:

• We implement sustainability protocols specific to each type of event (meetings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions).
• We encourage the use of sustainability metrics specific to MICE events.
• We provide advisory services to clients on how to make their events more sustainable.
• We create “green event” packages with completely sustainable options.

Innovation and sustainable technology:

• We implement technologies that reduce the environmental impact of events.
• We promote the use of digital platforms for networking and event documentation.
• We use digital registration and check-in systems.
• We encourage the use of mobile apps to reduce printed materials.

Legal and Certifications:

• We are certified with ESCNNA, which helps combat the sexual and commercial exploitation of children and adolescents.
• We implement due diligence protocols for all our suppliers.

Communication and Transparency:

• We disclose our sustainability policy and the progress made to encourage the participation of employees, customers, and other stakeholders.
• We invite our clients to be an active part of our sustainability commitments.

Measurement and Continuous Improvement:

• We establish specific KPIs to measure our environmental, social, and economic impact.
• We implement a continuous feedback system with clients and suppliers.

At Incentive Travel Colombia, we believe that the future of MICE tourism lies in sustainability. Every event we organize is an opportunity to create a positive impact in Colombia and its communities.