There are a number of ways to remain eco-conscious on your island getaway, including respecting marine life, being aware of environmental protection programs, and booking eco-certified lodgings. Our Maldives ecotourism guide will help you figure out some sustainable solutions for a low-impact holiday.
Why Sustainable Travel Matters in the Maldives
This country’s paradise of pristine beaches and teeming coral reefs faces a precarious future. Rising sea levels means low-lying islands could find themselves underwater, displacing communities, and higher ocean temperatures cause coral bleaching. This doesn’t just mean divers and snorkelers have less colorful marine life to explore, the coral reefs are home to hundreds of species and they protect the islands from erosion.
On top of these effects of climate change, limited land space and the Maldives’ reliance on imports makes waste management a big problem. When plastics end up in the sea, marine life is threatened – and the beautiful, idyllic paradise you’ve spent all that money to get to is trashed. And while tourism is the biggest industry in the Maldives, it can have a negative impact on local communities and their cultural heritage. By making conscious choices to reduce our carbon footprint, conserve water and energy, minimize waste, and support responsible tourism operators, we can contribute to the long-term health of the Maldives and preserve its beauty for generations to come.
Eco-Friendly Resorts and Guesthouses
Look for accommodations that prioritize sustainability through these areas of focus. Many will partner with organizations like the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI) which is focused on research, education, and community outreach; the Manta Trust, which conducts research and conservation efforts to protect manta rays; and the Olive Ridley Project, which works to protect sea turtles and their habitats.
- Renewable energy: True eco-friendly accommodations might prioritize harnessing the abundant natural energy of the Maldives – like the sun. Look for resorts and guesthouses that use solar panels to minimize their use of fossil fuels.
- Waste reduction: Managing waste is a tough challenge in the Maldives. Look for accommodations that take on comprehensive recycling programs, compost their organic waste, and are committed to reducing single-use plastics. They encourage guests to use reusable water bottles, provide refillable toiletries, and cut down on unnecessary laundering.
- Water conservation: Though it’s surrounding by the most beautiful blue sea, freshwater is a precious commodity in the Maldives. Look for places that prioritize water conservation through water-saving fixtures like low-flow showerheads and toilets. Some have rainwater harvesting systems and others asks guests to be mindful of their water usage.
- Community involvement: Sustainable tourism goes beyond environmental protection; it’s also about respecting local communities. Look for places that prioritize hiring local staff, and that provide fair wages and opportunities for professional development. Businesses should source local products that support local farmers, fishermen, and artisans.
- Marine conservation: Look for accommodations that actively participate in marine conservation efforts, such as coral reef restoration projects, turtle monitoring programs, and educational initiatives. Be mindful that all conservation programs are not created equal, and some could be more for show than for impactful conservation.
- Eco-friendly design: Consider lodging that incorporate sustainable design elements, such as natural building materials, energy-efficient architecture, and landscaping that promotes biodiversity.
- Guest education: Many accommodations actively educate their guests about sustainable practices and encourage them to make responsible choices during their stay.
Making Responsible Choices
- Diving and snorkeling: Research dive centers and snorkeling operators that are certified by organizations like PADI Green Star. These certifications highlight a commitment to sustainable practices, such as responsible anchoring and non-motorized boats. Avoid touching coral and use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Buy local: Support Maldivian artisans by buying locally made souvenirs. Look for unique items like handwoven mats, lacquer work, coral jewelry (ensuring it’s sustainably sourced). You can often find these at local markets or craft shops on inhabited islands.
- Eat local: Venture beyond the resort restaurants and seek out authentic Maldivian cuisine at restaurants run by locals. It’s not just good food you’re supporting.
- Respectful interactions: When moving through inhabited islands, wearing street clothes is more appropriate than sightseeing in your swimwear – especially when entering mosques. It never hurts to learn a few Dhivehi phrases, to show your interest in and respect for what is more than a vacation destination.
- Reducing your footprint: The Maldives is all about “barefoot luxury,” and that means we can’t help but leave our footprints behind. To minimize our impact, reduce your use of plastic, conserve water and energy, and throw away/recycle waste properly.
Sustainable Travel Tips
- Support local businesses: Choose locally owned accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators.
- Reduce waste: Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag to minimize plastic waste.
- Conserve water: Be mindful of water usage, especially on islands with limited resources.
- Respect wildlife: Observe marine life from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
- Choose eco-certified operators: Look for operators and accommodations with eco-certifications.
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Use mineral-based sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide when swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
- Stay on marked trails: Avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing wildlife by sticking to designated paths.
- Pack out your trash: Carry all trash with you, including food scraps.
- Pack light: Minimize your environmental impact and make island hopping easier.
- Cash on hand: Keep some local rufiyaa with you to pay cash to smaller businesses and local vendors.
- Stay connected responsibly: With the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM, there is no need to buy a physical SIM kit that will get tossed at the end of your trip. Download and activate your eSIM instantly – no plastic packaging, shipping, or wasted contract paper.
For more information on how to have data and avoid roaming charges while traveling in the Maldives, check out our piece on the benefits, FAQs, and installation process for the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM.
