- What inspired Sun Siyam Resorts to make sustainability a priority?
Sustainability is the cornerstone of Sun Siyam Resorts’ philosophy. Operating amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives and Sri Lanka, we recognize the deep connection between the well-being of our environment and the success of our business.
Our commitment stems from a belief that safeguarding the planet and supporting local communities is not just a responsibility but an essential pathway to long-term prosperity. Through our Sun Siyam Cares program, we prioritize reducing our environmental footprint by managing waste, conserving energy and water, investing in renewable energy, and minimizing plastic use.
We are equally dedicated to preserving cultural heritage and strengthening the socio-economic resilience of the communities we call home. By integrating sustainability into our operations, we aim to protect the natural and cultural treasures of our destinations while offering authentic, responsible guest experiences.
(Sustainability is our guiding principle) When the whole world is deteriorating our business cannot thrive, Its our responsibility to safeguard the planet and our people while we aim to reach the profitability. We always look beyond our business wall to strengthen the local community through our Sun Siyam Care concept.
- How has Sun Siyam Resorts reduced its environmental footprint in the past year?
This past year, we eliminated of single use plastic water bottles from the front and back of houses is one of the major and impactful actions we have implemented across our resorts. We introduced plant-based menus where we were able to convey the message of our sustainability effort to our stakeholder using varies communication methods.
We collaborated with Wild Life Conservation Department of Sri Lanka and initiated the CarePhant Foster parenting project to contribute to Kalo the baby elephant which had been abandoned and orphaned in the wild.
As part of the Sun Siyam Cares program, all five of our Maldives resorts are Travelife Gold-certified with the independent global accommodation sustainability body to give travellers peace of mind.
We have started inhouse small scale vegetable garden to promote sustainable food consumption in our four resorts. (SWM,SSIF,SSIV,SSOV)
- Can you tell us about the marine conservation efforts at Sun Siyam Resorts?
As part of Sun Siyam Cares, we have launched a Coral Restoration Project, led by marine biologist Mohamed Shah, we aim to rehabilitate and protect the island’s coral reefs, which are critical to maintaining the Maldives’ diverse marine ecosystems. These efforts reaffirm our commitment to environmental stewardship and preserving the natural beauty of this tropical paradise.
We ensure that all activities promoted for guests have no negative impact on our coral reef, our dive centers are certified for Blue Ocean which gives us sustainability guidelines for diving and snorkeling activities. Beaches are protected using advance conservation methods such as gryons and we use geo bags to prevent beach erosion while it support to reduce use of plastic bags.
Our marine biologists conduct weekly marine talks to educate guests about the importance of marine eco systems and best practices and how they can support to reduce the negative impact on the ocean specially during vacation.
- How do you involve local communities in your sustainability efforts?
Through the Sun Siyam Cares program, we collaborate with local islands and NGOs to address pressing environmental challenges, such as waste management and marine conservation. Our team conducts educational workshops and outreach initiatives that raise awareness about sustainable practices, from reducing plastic use to preserving marine ecosystems.
We also create economic opportunities for local communities by sourcing products and services locally, supporting traditional crafts, and offering vocational training programs. By fostering these partnerships, we not only strengthen community well-being but also ensure the long-term sustainability of the pristine environments that define the Maldives and Sri Lanka.
- What steps has Sun Siyam Resorts taken to reduce single-use plastics?
Recognizing the environmental challenges posed by single-use plastics in the Maldives, Sun Siyam Resorts except SSOV has taken bold steps to reduce their impact. Single-use plastic water bottles have been completely eliminated from both the front and back of the house. Reusable water bottles have been distributed to all staff, while water dispensers are installed across our resorts for easy access. Our tuck shops no longer sell plastic water bottles, making four Sun Siyam Resorts a completely plastic water bottle-free zone. For the unavoidable single-use plastics generated during operations, we collaborate with Parley Maldives to ensure their responsible disposal and recycling. These efforts reflect our unwavering commitment to sustainability and the preservation of the Maldives’ natural beauty.
- How do you see Sun Siyam Resorts evolving its sustainability initiatives in the coming years?
Responsible resource consumption through proper waste management will be a major topic we will be working on in the year 2025. Preventing food waste by 20% will be one of our goals through a proper system implication across SSR. Further we are planning 10 impactful projects to be implemented in the year 2025 across all atolls where business is presence using our Sun Siyam Care Fund which will enhance the Environment, Social and Governance.
Workplace wellbeing is highly considered, and we will be working hard to improve the quality of the workplace through globally accepted guidelines and methods.
