Continuing the steps showcased in their reports in their ESG Report 2021 and ESG Report 2022, Amex GBT underscores its commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of business travel while setting benchmarks for the industry in their 2023 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report.
Advancing Sustainability: Key Highlights
Amex GBT has integrated sustainability into its core operations through a series of innovative solutions and measurable goals:
- Science-Based and Net-Zero Targets: Committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, Amex GBT follows Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) methodologies and has implemented comprehensive emissions assessments to address Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
- Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): Amex GBT increased the engagement with policymakers on both sides of the Atlantic on the importance of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). More companies are signing up to use the Avelia SAF book-and-claim platform, which AMex GBT launched in 2022 with Accenture and Shell Aviation.
- Renewable Energy Commitment: Amex GBT has powered 58% of its global operations with renewable energy, aiming for 100% by 2025.
‘’To keep enjoying the social and economic benefits of travel, we must work as a global community to address its environmental impact. Sustainability is a core part of our culture and strategy. We have increased our engagement with policymakers on both sides of the Atlantic on the importance of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Meanwhile, more companies are signing up to use the Avelia SAF book-and-claim platform, which we launched in 2022 with Accenture and Shell Aviation.’’ shared Paul Abbott, Chief Executive Officer at Amex GBT.
Environmental, Governance, and Social Commitments at Amex GBT
Amex GBT demonstrates a holistic approach to sustainability through its environmental, governance, and social commitments. Governance is also strengthened by ESG frameworks, rigorous risk management strategies, and a commitment to ethical operations, ensuring transparency and accountability across its global operations. On the social front, Amex GBT invests in initiatives promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), such as colleague resource groups and partnerships with NGOs like Welcome.US or Miles4Migrants. These efforts, combined with innovative programs like the Green@GBT group and Travel Academy, reflect Amex GBT’s dedication to creating a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient travel industry.
- GSTC-Certified Hotel Bookings: Amex GBT worked with GSTC to promote third-party certified hotel bookings and launched green hotel highlights at the point of sale. Amex GTB recognizes the importance of third-party certification and GSTC Accreditation in theirlong-term hotel strategy, in line with industry progress.
- Sustainable Meetings & Events (MICE): Amex GBT was an active stakeholder in the GSTC MICE Criteria development.
Amex GBT has also implemented solutions to empower businesses and travelers in their sustainability journeys:
- Green Marketplace: Offering tools to track, report, and mitigate travel-related emissions, such as carbon pricing programs and a portfolio of independently verified carbon offset projects.
- Educational Initiatives: Engaging employees and clients through Green@GBT, a sustainability-focused group that fosters environmental awareness and action across global offices.
[Photo: Page 21 from Amex GBT ESG Report 2023]
Read Amex GTB full 2023 ESG Report here.
About American Express Global Business Travel
American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) is the world’s leading business partner for managed travel. We help companies and their employees prosper by making sure travelers are present where and when it matters. We keep global business moving with the powerful backing of travel professionals in more than 140 countries. Companies of all sizes, and in all places, rely on Amex GBT to provide travel management services, organize meetings and events, and deliver business travel consulting.
