What's Happening?
Intrepid Travel has entered into a global partnership with the United Nations Global Compact, focusing on responsible procurement and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As part of this agreement, Intrepid will sponsor the UN Global Compact’s SME and Sustainable Supply Chains Programme and join the global Coalition for Sustainable Procurement. This coalition aims to develop a best-practice framework for sustainable procurement across various industries. Intrepid's chief people and purpose officer, Meegan Marshall, is actively participating in the High-Level Forum on Sustainable Procurement in New York City during the UN General Assembly in September 2025. The partnership reflects Intrepid's commitment to supporting SMEs globally and embedding sustainability into supply chains.
Why It's Important?
This partnership is significant as it highlights the role of purpose-driven businesses in advancing global sustainability goals. By supporting SMEs and promoting sustainable procurement practices, Intrepid Travel and the UN Global Compact aim to accelerate progress towards the 2030 SDGs. This initiative could lead to more environmentally and socially responsible business practices worldwide, potentially influencing industries to adopt similar frameworks. The collaboration also emphasizes the importance of knowledge sharing and policy advocacy in addressing urgent environmental and social issues, which could have long-term benefits for global sustainability efforts.
What's Next?
Intrepid Travel will continue to work closely with the UN Global Compact to strengthen efforts in CEO, CSO, and CMO mobilization, policy advocacy, resilience, and innovation. The company will also focus on empowering young leaders through initiatives like the UN Global Compact Network Australia’s Young Professionals Network. Intrepid is set to be a key partner for the upcoming UNiting Business LIVE Australia conference in Sydney in May 2026, furthering its commitment to sustainable business practices. These efforts are expected to foster greater collaboration and innovation in sustainable procurement and business practices globally.
Beyond the Headlines
The partnership between Intrepid Travel and the UN Global Compact could have deeper implications for the travel industry and beyond. By embedding sustainability into supply chains, businesses may face ethical and operational challenges in balancing cost-effectiveness with environmental responsibility. This shift could lead to a cultural change in how companies approach procurement, prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term gains. Additionally, the empowerment of young leaders through this initiative may drive future innovations in sustainable business practices, potentially reshaping industry standards.
