Green Globe announced re-certification of the Chaaya Reef Ellaidhoo Resort in the Maldives. Since the initial onsite audit two years ago, the property implemented a number of improvements and far exceeds the required certification pass scores for most Green Globe indicators.

“Our commitment is reflected in our management principles and daily practices, which aim at building a sustainable future for the generations to come,” said Mr. Kumar Prem, General Manager at the Chaaya Reef Ellaidhoo Resort, “We strive to include our partners, customers, staff, and local communities where relevant and to the extent possible in accordance and compliance to all local environmental regulations. We minimize waste by evaluating operations and ensuring efficiency by adapting environmentally-friendly waste disposal practices, composting programs, and actively promote reuse and recycle programs. Over the past two years, we have seen a 30 percent per guest drop of energy consumption.”

The resort’s water bungalows are now fitted with Energy Management Systems, which will also be implemented in beach bungalows during the next refurbishment. CFL bulbs replaced LED bulbs in most areas, and a heat recovery system provides hot water to the guest rooms. All chemicals used on the property by kitchens, housekeeping, and laundry are biodegradable. Furthermore, the Chaaya Reef Ellaidhoo Resort has implemented collateral on energy and water conservation, waste management, as well as marine life preservation and cultural etiquette that should be observed when visiting local communities. Local culture is promoted through “Theme Nights,” which feature traditional Maldivian cuisine and entertainment, in addition to local island excursions, available for guests.

The realities of the location in which the property operates present a challenge when it comes to waste management and obtaining environmentally-certified products that are largely unavailable in the Maldives. While the resort separates its waste and sends waste plastic bottles back to the supplier for recycling, styrofoam, cardboard, and metal waste is currently sold for reuse, and future innovative plans include in-house paper recycling. Most vegetables and herbs are grown on the resort’s own hydroponics garden, and environmentally-preferable products are being purchased to as great a degree as possible. Take-back and packaging minimization policies are in place, and all procedures are reviewed on a regular basis to continually improve performance.

Green Globe Certification’s CEO, Guido Bauer, commented: “We are very pleased to award the re-certification to the Chaaya Reef Resort Ellaidhoo. This property shows outstanding efforts in their dedication to protect the environment and creating awareness amongst staff and customers. Employees are frequently trained on all relevant aspects of sustainability, including water and energy consumption, and waste management.”