Banyan Group, a leader in sustainable hospitality, unveils its 2024 Sustainability Report—One Banyan, One Sustainable Future. The 19th edition reports on the Group’s advancements in driving action and impact across key environmental, social, and economic dimensions, reaffirming sustainability as a core foundation of its business.
The report further goes into details sustainability efforts carried out at Angsana Velavaru. It reflects the continued alignment with Banyan Group’s sustainability vision, embracing environmental stewardship, community connection, and team-led impact.
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Coral regeneration and guest engagement: In response to the global coral bleaching event of early 2024, Angsana Velavaru temporarily paused its coral restoration programme. However, the resort’s Marine Lab resumed its efforts in October, ushering in a renewed chapter of conservation. Guests have since been welcomed to participate in guided coral planting sessions, where they play a hands-on role in nurturing reef ecosystems. Since October, approximately 40 coral frames— harbouring over 1,000 fragments—have been transplanted, creating opportunities for awareness, connection, and stewardship beneath the waves.
Plastic-free pledge in action: Angsana Velavaru continues to advance its commitment to eliminating single-use plastics across the island. A notable achievement was the transition to an in-house glass water bottling system, reducing waste while maintaining guest convenience. Furthering this initiative, the housekeeping team creatively upcycled damaged linen and umbrellas into tote bags and reusable napkins for the associate restaurant – demonstrating both innovation and a hands-on approach to sustainability.
Zero Net Journey: In alignment with Banyan Group’s carbon reduction ambitions, Angsana Velavaru reached a significant milestone in 2024 with the completion of the second phase of its solar panel installation. This advancement enables the resort to generate over 1,500 kWh of clean, renewable energy each day—contributing to a 3.8% reduction in diesel consumption (land operations) and a measurable decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. More than a technical upgrade, this initiative embodies Angsana Velavaru’s steadfast commitment to shaping a low-carbon future, where responsible innovation supports both operational excellence and the protection of the sland’s delicate natural environment.
Community connections: The resort deepened its engagement with local communities through a variety of initiatives in 2024 until now. Educational visits welcomed students from neighbouring islands for marine conservation sessions and hospitality career introductions. As part of ongoing cultural programming, local artisans regularly host traditional craft workshops for guests, while weekly Boduberu performances by local musicians celebrate Maldivian heritage and provide vital support to the island economy. Additionally, through the 2025 Greater Good Grants (GGG) Fund, Angsana Velavaru supported the creation of a fully equipped computer lab for a partner school- enhancing digital access and education for local youth.
Staff-led sustainability initiatives: In line with Banyan Group and UN Sustainable Development Goals, Angsana Velavaru associates have remained actively involved in both environmental and social initiatives. Joint clean-up campaigns with nearby island resulted in the removal of over 100 kg of waste, fostering collaboration and shared purpose. Throughout the year, associates also championed key global awareness events including Earth Hour, World Ocean Day, and World Tourism Day – marked by resort-wide energy-saving efforts, educational workshops, and reef conservation activities that inspired both team members and guests to take part in collective movement for change.
“At Angsana Velavaru, sustainability is not a department – it’s a shared responsibility. We’re proud of our team’s commitment to protecting the incredible natural environment we call home, and to building meaningful bridges with our surrounding communities,” said Ahmed Zahir, General Manager, Angsana Velavaru.