In a time when sustainability is becoming more important, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa has reached a significant milestone: the well-respected Green Globe Certification. This achievement highlights the resort’s ongoing efforts to align its operations with the environment, enhancing both the natural beauty of the Lhaviyani Atoll and the guest experience. The certification not only shows the resort’s commitment to eco-friendly practices but also reinforces its goal to create a future where travel and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
Commitment to Sustainability and Guest Engagement
Speaking about this achievement, Thomas Schult, General Manager of Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa said:
“Our Green Globe Certification is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to sustainability and
the preservation of the Maldives’ natural beauty. By embedding eco-friendly practices into our guest
experiences, we aim to inspire meaningful connections with the environment while safeguarding
it for future generations.”
The Green Globe Certification sets the highest standard for sustainability in the travel industry, with 44 strict criteria and over 380 compliance checks that evaluate a property’s environmental, social, and economic impact. Le Méridien Maldives has met these high standards, showing its deep dedication to preserving the environment while creating meaningful experiences for guests.
A key part of the resort’s sustainability plan is the Marine Conservation Hub. The initiative invites guests to take part directly in marine conservation efforts through the ‘Marine Master’ program, led by a resident marine biologist. The program includes special modules such as Reef Explorer, Turtle Quest, and Build A Coral Reef, giving guests hands-on opportunities to help protect the Maldives’ delicate marine ecosystems. For younger visitors, the Kids Hub offers educational programs designed to inspire an appreciation for nature and its protection.
Sustainable Farming and Ecosystem Conservation
A key feature of Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa’s eco-friendly approach is its 430 sqm hydroponic greenhouse, one of the largest in the Maldives. This greenhouse produces 30 kilograms of pesticide-free vegetables daily and uses recycled rainwater for irrigation. The resort highlights its farm-to-table experience at The Harvest Table, where guests enjoy fresh, locally grown produce. The Family Foraging program offers interactive cooking experiences that strengthen guests’ connection to sustainable living.
The resort also focuses on energy efficiency, cutting its use of diesel with solar power installations that generate 548 kWp, reducing annual diesel consumption by 20%. Water conservation plays an important role, with features like tap aerators and wastewater recycling for landscaping, further lowering the resort’s environmental footprint.
Beyond the resort’s immediate grounds, the protection of native plants, mangrove ecosystems, and coral reefs is central to its sustainability efforts. The resort operates a bottling plant onsite, cutting out the need for 225,000 plastic bottles every year. Additionally, its eco-composting system turns organic waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer, promoting a circular approach to resource management.
A Model for Sustainable Tourism
Located on the private island of Thilamaafushi in the Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa offers more than just a luxurious vacation; it provides a model for how travel can coexist with environmental care. With its Green Globe Certification, the resort proves that it is possible to offer guests a world-class experience while also making a positive impact on the planet. From sustainable farming practices to marine conservation programs, Le Méridien Maldives stands as an example of how the tourism industry can embrace sustainability without giving up luxury. The resort’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy its stunning landscapes and rich ecosystems.
