Velassaru Maldives has launched a series of environment-friendly initiatives.

Amongst the initiatives is a comprehensive recycling facility, which includes a shredding machine for plastic bottles and a glass grinder for all non-returnable glass. A new botanical waste chipper and mulcher produces material that can either be converted into compost or used as mulch for the resort’s gardens. Kitchen bio-waste is also processed in a bio-composting machine to supplement the on-island compost initiative, which makes its way onto the gardens.

Velassaru has also started reusing grey water, which makes up the largest portion of wastewater on the resort. All grey water on the island is now processed through a pro-biotic aeration plant and reutilised to irrigate the gardens.

As part of Velassaru’s green initiative, a purpose built water filtration and bottling facility is to be commissioned on the island soon in order to produce premium quality still and sparking water in reusable glass bottles. This initiative will replace plastic water bottles used by guests and staff members, removing a minimum of 200,000 plastic bottles per year and a million every five years.

Additionally, Velassaru has stopped using plastic drinking straws.

Owned and operated by leading local hotel group Universal Resorts, Velassaru is located in South Male Atoll and accessible by a short 25-minute speedboat ride from the main Velana International Airport.

Velassaru offers luxurious beachfront and overwater accommodation with uninterrupted ocean views. Featuring wooden ceilings and floors for a tropical atmosphere, the contemporary-styled villas and bungalows offer chic serenity.

A wide variety of international specialities are offered at Velassaru’s five restaurants, including fresh contemporary seafood, Japanese, international and grill pan Indian options. The two beach bars serve cocktails and wines.

Guests can enjoy relaxing spa treatments in overwater pavilions, or hop on a Maldivian boat and watch the crew demonstrate traditional fishing methods. Other resort facilities include a fitness centre, tennis court and infinity pool with the view of the beach and the ocean.