NewsDecember 20, 2023

Soneva Fushi – Pioneering Sustainability in the Maldives for Over Two Decades

Soneva Fushi, hidden among dense foliage on a private island, located within the Baa Atoll, the resort serves as a bastion of environmental conservation, actively pursuing initiatives to minimise its ecological footprint and promote long-term well-being.

Recently crowned as one of the “Most Sustainable Resorts” at the esteemed TTM Awards & Gala 2023, cementing its reputation as a haven for those seeking a harmonious blend of luxury and ecological responsibility.

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Marine Conservation and Coral Restoration

Soneva Fushi, a stalwart in marine conservation, has formed strategic alliances with influential organisations, including NGO Save Our Seas, the Olive Ridley Project, and the International Pole & Line Foundation. 

Collaborating with the Soneva Foundation, the resort annually propagates 150,000 corals, utilising Mineral Accretion Technology (MAT) in one of the world’s largest coral nurseries onsite. In a groundbreaking move in 2023, the resort unveiled the Maldives’ inaugural coral spawning and rearing lab, accompanied by 28 micro-fragmenting tanks.

Sustainable Pest Management Practices

Addressing the prevalent mosquito issue in the region, Soneva Fushi has teamed up with Biogents to pioneer sustainable pest management practices. Transitioning from chemical fogging to an insecticide-free mosquito management system, the resort has witnessed a remarkable 95-98% reduction in the mosquito population since the project’s initiation in July 2019. This eco-friendly approach mitigates mosquito-borne illnesses and positively impacts biodiversity, fostering diverse flora and fauna. 

Carbon Neutrality and Environmental Levy

Soneva Fushi, including all other properties, has declared itself as 100% carbon neutral since 2012. Achieving this milestone involves adding a 2% environmental levy to room rates, allowing the offsetting of both direct and indirect CO2 emissions caused by each stay through the Soneva Foundation.

Foodprint Awareness

Recognising the environmental impact of every meal, Soneva Fushi emphasises the concept of ‘foodprint.’ The resort advocates for seasonal, plant-based diets, highlighting the lower environmental impact compared to the industrial meat industry, a major contributor to deforestation.

Waste-to-Wealth programme & Soneva Namoona

The Waste-to-Wealth programme, including Eco Centro waste centres, achieves a 90% solid waste recycling rate, aiming for 100% by 2030. Notably, it transforms food waste into compost and creatively repurposes plastic and cans into art, contributing to a USD 3 million impact.

Soneva Namoona, a joint effort with local islands, Common Seas, and the government, extends waste management initiatives. Emphasising upcycling, recycling, and community education, the initiative also provides reusable drinking water bottles through Soneva Water. Together, these efforts position Soneva Fushi as a leader in sustainable waste management, blending creativity and responsibility.