Nestled on the shores of a private island in the secluded Shaviyani atoll, Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi stands as a beacon of innovation in the heart of the Maldives.
Recently honoured with the coveted title of “Most Innovative Resort” at the TTM Awards & Gala 2023, this exclusive retreat captivates not only with its breathtaking surroundings but also with a visionary approach to sustainability. The groundbreaking Sustainability Lab is at the forefront of this ingenuity, a pioneering initiative that sets Fairmont Maldives apart in eco-friendly luxury.
This eco-education hub sets out to tackle the growing concern of single-use plastics in the Maldives, a region where tourism is flourishing but where the threat of plastic pollution looms large.
The Sustainability Lab aims to be a beacon of change by transforming plastic waste into bespoke souvenirs and unique products. Specialised machinery within the lab processes plastic collected from the beach, reef, and ocean, turning it into exquisite furniture, useful stationery for local schools, and even turtle-shaped luggage tags for guests. With over 725 kg of plastic processed to date, Fairmont Maldives is significantly reducing its environmental footprint.
Beyond its immediate impact, the Sustainability Lab is poised to become a recycling centre for the atoll and surrounding areas, fostering a culture of sustainability and accountability in local communities. The resort actively involves nearby islands in its efforts, encouraging them to send their plastic waste for recycling rather than contributing to landfills or ocean pollution.
The Sustainability Lab serves as the epicentre of Fairmont Maldives’ broader sustainability initiatives, offering guests firsthand experiences in conservation research. Through educational programmes and activities, guests can actively participate in collecting plastic waste, learning about recycling processes, and creating their own sustainable products.
Recognising the critical threat of plastic pollution to sea turtles, Fairmont Maldives has introduced the Turtle Ranger Programme. Guests can engage in conservation methods, assist in collecting Photo ID tracking data, and actively participate in protecting turtle nests. The resort’s Marine Biologists conduct workshops in the Sustainability Lab, transforming plastic waste into turtle-shaped products using innovative recycling machines.
