The Global Business Travel Association Foundation (GBTA) added two features to the global travel management sustainability program, Project ICARUS, as part of the re-launch of the initiative.

Project ICARUS will include a recognition and awards programs in addition to a new advisory board, according to the company announcement on June 11.

The Gold Medal recognition program will acknowledge companies that meet the needs of the business travel and meetings industry while driving sustainability efforts. The Outstanding Achievement Awards will honor buyers, sellers, intermediaries and sustainability organizations that have made a special contribution during the year.

Buyers, suppliers, academics and subject matter experts from Europe, North America, Asia, Australia/New Zealand and Latin America will make up the new Global Advisory Board. Its representatives from PwC, Cranfield University, Sabre Holdings, Wireless Advocates LLC, Australian Federal Police will provide expertise, leadership and guidance on sustainability.

The initiative was first launched in 2006 by the Institute of Travel and Meetings (ITM) in the UK to provide information, education and support for sustainability issues in the business travel and meetings industry.

“Sustainability is an issue of strategic importance for corporations and organizations in the business travel industry,” said Executive Director Daphne Bryant. “Project ICARUS and GBTA’s expanded program on sustainability sets the bar for the entire industry, providing the research, guidance and now awarding recognition for those looking to develop or improve a global sustainability program.”

According to Rebecca Carriero, a GBTA spokesperson, Project ICARUS is named after the Greek mythology figure Icarus. The GBTA uses this story because it is a tale of moderation; learning how to be sustainable to help the long-term survival of the company and its employees.