Sustainable tourism is more than just a buzzword in the travel industry and is vital in destinations like the Maldives; here are some tips to help you be an eco-friendly visitor on your holiday.
Choose an Eco-Friendly Resort
Where you choose to stay is important, so do your research and pick a property that is invested in promoting sustainability and environmental conservation. Ideal options include Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives, an island resort of the Park Hotel Group that has attained a Green Globe certification, with a Marine Biologist and Sustainability Guardian and a “Green Team” present; properties as such also have a sustainability management plan where environmental policies can be implemented in practical ways.
Check Sustainable Initiatives
Go a step further and check what sustainable programmes and eco-friendly initiatives have been adopted by your accommodation provider. For example, the above-mentioned resort has a solar power system on the island that helps to produce clean energy for the property, significantly reducing their carbon emissions. Additional sustainability aspects include separating wet and dry waste for the purpose of upcycling and recycling, reducing single-plastic use and cultivating a sustainable herb garden and orchid nursery.
Conserve Marine Life
As a traveller, you can take direct steps to support sustainability and conservation too. Snorkelling and diving are some of the best things to do in Maldives to encounter coral and marine species but do remember that you should not step on or break coral, nor should you feed, disturb, or harm any ocean creatures you come across. Consider staying at a resort that has a marine and sustainability programme with a resident marine biologist who will offer insights about marine life and take you on guided house reef snorkelling.
Support the Locals
Sustainable tourism in Maldives should not be focused on the environment alone but on supporting communities as well. Your chosen resort should promote Maldivian culture and provide employment opportunities for locals; as a traveller, you can look also look to lend a helping hand by visiting local islands, engaging with those that live there and buying authentic products directly from Maldivian artisans and craftspeople.
