Intrepid Travel Joins Top B Corps After Successful Recertification

31, Jan 2025 | nepaltraveller.com
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As many companies scale back on their DEI and sustainability commitments, Intrepid Travel is moving in the opposite direction, securing a top-tier B Corp score in recognition of its ongoing efforts to drive positive social and environmental impact.

Wednesday, January 29, 2025 – Intrepid Travel, a global leader in responsible tourism, has achieved its highest-ever B Corp score of 102.5 in its second recertification. This marks a significant improvement from its 2021 score of 91.2, reflecting the company’s dedication to advancing global employment equity, expanding supplier diversity, increasing community investment, and empowering its customers through education.

The B Corp certification is one of the most prestigious and rigorous designations for purpose-driven businesses, awarded to companies that meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. With only 20% of B Corps with over 1,000 employees reaching a score above 100, Intrepid now stands among the top B Corp businesses worldwide. To qualify for certification, a business must score at least 80 points, whereas the average traditional business falls just below 60. This milestone places Intrepid alongside well-respected B Corps such as Ben & Jerry’s (96), Natura & Co (101), and Patagonia (166).


Chief People & Purpose Officer Meegan Marshall said:


"As other companies are pulling back from their DEI and ESG commitments, Intrepid is doubling down on our efforts and deepening our commitment to inclusive growth, where purpose and profit go hand in hand. As the world continues to grapple with geopolitical instability, the climate crisis and deepening social inequalities, now is the time for businesses to reaffirm their commitments to a more inclusive and equitable and regenerative economy that benefits all stakeholders. When Intrepid certified as a B Corp in 2018, only 19 certified companies were in the tourism sector. Today, that number is almost 200. We hope to build on this momentum and continue to use business as a force for good.”

B Corps must undergo recertification every three years, providing measurable evidence of their social and environmental impact across five key areas: governance, workers, community, customers, and the environment.

Since its last recertification in 2021, Intrepid has made the following strides:


Diversifying Its Supply Chain


Intrepid has boosted the diversity of its suppliers, particularly focusing on women and underrepresented groups, increasing the percentage from 17% to 27%. This progress has been made possible through enhanced measurement practices, targeted initiatives, and engagement programs.

Read about how these improvements have supported Intrepid supplier Leitah Mkhabela and the Black Mambas, who are working to prevent poaching and inspire the next generation of wildlife conservationists in Kruger National Park.


Progressing Global Employment Equity


Intrepid has created 33% more employment opportunities, ensuring all workers are paid a living wage, as aligned with the WageIndicator benchmark.

Hear from Sumitra, Intrepid’s trekking leader in Nepal, who is breaking through gender barriers and leading the way for women in Nepal’s travel industry.


Customer Education & Empowerment


Intrepid has introduced carbon labels to more than 500 trips and expanded its active trip range to promote both physical and mental well-being for travelers. Additionally, the company is dedicated to ensuring customers learn about the various environments, cultures, and histories of the destinations they visit.

Learn about Barbara Threet, who has traveled to 77 countries and counting, making over 100 donations to causes worldwide through The Intrepid Foundation along the way.


Doubling Community Investment


Intrepid has significantly increased its community investment, growing contributions from AU$728,444 in 2020 to AU$1.4 million in 2023. These investments are made through volunteering, partnerships, and contributions to The Intrepid Foundation, supporting non-profits making a global impact.

Read about how The Intrepid Foundation partner, Blue Dragon, has provided critical support to thousands of children and families in Vietnam, helping them escape the grips of human trafficking.

This latest recertification follows a record-breaking year for Intrepid, marked by significant increases in both revenue and passenger growth. The company has committed to a triple bottom line approach to governance and is set to launch its 2030 Impact Strategy to drive further action in the areas of environmental and social responsibility. Moving forward, Intrepid is dedicated to continuing its progress, making further enhancements across all aspects of its business, and contributing to a more inclusive and equitable global economy.

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