In recent years, luxury resorts in the Maldives have increasingly embraced sustainable practices, aiming to protect the stunning environment while providing high-end accommodations. These eco-friendly resorts offer guests a unique opportunity to indulge in luxury while supporting conservation efforts and sustainable tourism.
Innovative Practices at Leading Resorts
Six Senses Laamu: Guests of the Six Senses Laamu can spend time with marine scientists, part of the resort-led Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI) that was founded to protect sea turtles, mantas, and seagrass. Amilla: Several resorts in the Maldives have developed homegrown ‘zero-food-mile’ solutions. Amilla, for instance, has its own banana plantation, hydroponic garden, mushroom hut, coconut processing facility and a choose-your-own-eggs ‘Cluckingham Palace’ chicken coop. Fairmont Maldives: Aiming to be the ‘first zero-waste-generating resort’ in the country, Fairmont Maldives launched its Sustainability Lab earlier this year. It focuses on reimagining resort- and ocean-salvaged plastic, glass, and aluminum waste into tourist keepsakes and local products. Gili Lankanfushi: Later this year, Gili Lankanfushi will launch a Marine Biology Center with a dedicated research space and expanded coral regeneration program, where guests can participate in hands-on coral reef cleaning and rehabilitation and study conservation alongside resident marine biologists. Soneva: Eco-pioneering Soneva Resorts operates two properties in the Maldives. Both resorts have a robust composting program and an Eco Centro — an on-site waste-processing facility. The company also launched its Makers’ Place concept at Soneva Fushi last year, where artists repurpose ‘waste’ into sellable arts and crafts, like wall tiles and glassware. Kudadoo: In 2018, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island became the first resort in the country to be fully solar-powered, thanks to nearly 1,000 solar panels that cover the rooftop of ‘The Retreat’ (a hub for dining, wellness, and retail). Coco Collection: Coco Collection’s two Maldives properties are behind the veterinarian-led ORP Marine Turtle Rescue Centre. Guests can join coral tree planting outings, participate in reef cleanups or even help rehabilitate rescued turtles.
In summary, resorts in the Maldives have made significant commitments to sustainability, offering guests an opportunity to experience luxury while supporting critical conservation efforts. This harmonious blend of comfort and environmental stewardship enhances the overall travel experience, making it more meaningful. Therefore, by choosing these eco-friendly resorts, travelers contribute to preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives for future generations.
