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Parley recognises Maldives as Future Island Nation’, launches 10-year action plan on waste management
Parley for the Oceans has recognised the Maldives as the first ‘Future Island Nation’, as the environmental organisation and the island nation extend their partnership to reduce plastic waste.
The Maldives and Parley have extended their partnership to create a scalable, nationwide framework for solutions towards the achievement of SDG 7, SDG 9, SDG 11, SDG 12, SDG 13, SDG 14 and SDG 15 under the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The island nation was the first to answer a global call to action led by Parley in collaboration with the UN-OHRLLS to demonstrate how small island developing states (SIDS) can become leaders in the fight to end marine plastic pollution by implementing the Parley AIR Strategy (Avoid, Intercept, Redesign) in a collaborative, innovative approach to solutions.
With the successful completion of an initial pilot phase, Parley recognises the Maldives as the first ‘Future Island Nation.’ The expanding collaboration now includes the Ministry of Environment and the national waste management company WAMCO in a 10-year action plan.
Immediate steps include policy change, the expansion of recycling infrastructure, cleanups and community education initiatives across all levels of society, industry and government. Education and direct action initiatives will also be offered to tourists visiting the country, empowering visitors to become messengers for the oceans who bring change back to their homeland.
“As a small island nation, we are faced with many economic and environmental challenges. We suffer from problems that we didn’t create, and materials we didn’t invent. Plastic pollution is an example of that. We need to protect our ocean, because it is our national treasure, and we need to find ways to establish a new, vibrant blue economy,” Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, President of the Maldives, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“That is why we decided to take the path of ocean conservation, collaboration and Eco-Innovation with Parley for the Oceans. Together, we will tackle plastic pollution, harness alternative, clean energy sources, and protect Maldivian waters from illegal fishing. I truly believe in the innovative power and resilience of my country, and its young and creative people.”
Declaring the Maldives as the base and epicentre for its next chapter, Parley is calling for a ‘Material Revolution’ and is gathering the world’s leading creators and scientists to replace all harmful materials and products used in the supply chains of its brand partners within the next seven years.
The base for this global eco-innovation initiative will be a small island in the southern atolls of the Maldives, where Parley is building, in collaboration with the Maldives, a permanent collaboration space, Parley Station One.
Parley Station One, located on the island of Kondey Mathee Laabadhoo in the southern Gaafu Alifu atoll, will provide a unique destination and collaboration space for creators, leaders and thinkers – connecting art, design, science, technology and business in an eco-innovation driver for a new, blue economy. This programme will turn the Maldives into a launchpad for future technology, research and development, and creative collaboration.
“To leave toxic materials in the past, we need to do more than intercept them. We need to develop and test new materials, new technologies and question existing product concepts and business models. By inventing Ocean Plastic, Parley turned a problem into an economic opportunity, and with our AIR Strategy, we are creating the blueprints for systemic change,” Cyrill Gutsch, Founder and CEO of Parley for the Oceans said.
“The Republic of the Maldives was early to believe in our vision and to act on our strategy. We’re honoured to call the Maldives the first ‘Future Island Nation’, because we see this magic country as a Symbol of Change and a canvas for the new. Together we are now not only combatting marine plastic pollution but piloting solutions for Climate Change and Illegal Fishing.”
The Maldives first entered into a collaboration with Parley in September 2016, during the 70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Since piloting the project, Parley has introduced programmes to reduce reliance on single-use plastics, as well as plastic interception and baling sites in island communities and more than 70 schools. Parley has also led collaborative cleanups on affected coastlines and opened the first-ever recycling centre and innovation lab in the island nation’s capital Male.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, local schools and NGOs, Parley Ocean School programmes have helped more than 100,000 youth and their parents go swimming and snorkelling to experience the world beneath the blue surface, many for the very first time.
The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives, Autograph Collection has announced a collaboration with Ahmed Aleem Shakoor, who is currently in residence at the resort, introducing a creative element to the guest experience.
Aleem, a self-taught artist, is known for work that combines maritime themes, surrealism and symbolism. His practice spans watercolours, acrylics and mixed media, drawing inspiration from the Maldives’ history and ocean landscapes, often expressed through the use of light, depth and narrative.
During his residency, Aleem is working with the resort to develop a series of artistic and cultural experiences aimed at engaging guests. These include live painting sessions, informal interactions with the artist and workshops designed to encourage creative participation.
The programme forms part of the resort’s wider activities, with offerings such as mini canvas painting, coconut painting and creative art sessions available to guests. In addition, Tales Painted in Sunlight combines elements of Maldivian folklore, storytelling and visual art, providing further insight into local culture.
The collaboration reflects the resort’s approach to incorporating local artistic talent into its programming, while offering guests opportunities to engage with creative activities in a relaxed setting. The residency is designed to allow guests to explore artistic expression as part of their island experience.
As part of its seasonal programme, selected artistic activities are also included in the resort’s Easter offerings, providing additional opportunities for guests to take part in creative experiences during their stay.
Amilla Maldives has been named a joint winner in the Most OutThere Initiative in Inclusive Travel category at the Experientialist Awards 2026, following a Highly Commended recognition in the same category in 2025.
The Experientialist Awards recognise organisations shaping travel through inclusivity, individuality and design, with the inclusive travel category highlighting initiatives that address not only accessibility, but also how journeys are experienced by guests.
At Amilla Maldives, accessibility is integrated into the overall guest experience. The resort adopts an approach that begins at the planning stage and continues throughout the stay, with a focus on understanding individual guest needs and adapting experiences accordingly.
Aligned with its In Harmony with Purpose philosophy, the resort has introduced a range of measures aimed at improving accessibility. These include villa features designed for ease of use, accessible pathways across the island and adaptive experiences such as inclusive snorkelling and wellness sessions.
As an IncluCare Verified resort, Amilla Maldives continues to develop its offering through feedback and collaboration, with the aim of enhancing inclusivity across its operations.
Commenting on the recognition, Morgan Martinello said the resort remains focused on creating travel experiences that feel natural and accessible. He noted that the continued recognition reflects the resort’s ongoing efforts to improve inclusivity.
The award from OutThere, a platform focused on diversity and inclusion in travel, marks a further step in the resort’s efforts to create accessible and inclusive guest experiences.
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, part of Centara Hotels and Resorts, has marked its first anniversary, highlighting a year of operations as a luxury island resort within The Atollia development.
During its first year, the resort has received international recognition, including being named among Favourite Overseas Leisure Hotels in the Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 and listed among the Top Ten Best Maldives Resorts in the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2026.
Since opening, the resort has offered a collection of beachfront and overwater villas, along with two- and three-bedroom residences designed to provide privacy and space. Accommodation options include private pools or Jacuzzis, with design elements incorporating contemporary architecture, natural materials and Thai-inspired influences.
The resort’s concept draws on Thai heritage, reflected across its wellness, dining and guest experiences. At SPA Cenvaree Retreat, treatments are inspired by traditional Thai wellness practices. Dining options across the resort include live cooking experiences at The Gallery, Mediterranean-inspired seafood at Bluefin, and beverage offerings at venues such as Sunset Social, The Club and Coco Drift.
Guests can also take part in a range of leisure and recreational activities, including water sports and marine experiences. The resort caters to a variety of travellers, offering facilities for families, including a kids’ club and an entertainment zone for teenagers, as well as spaces for private events, group stays and corporate gatherings.
Commenting on the milestone, Jorge Fernandez said the resort combines elements of Thai heritage with the Maldivian environment to create a distinct guest experience. He noted that recognition received during the first year reflects the resort’s approach to hospitality, sustainability and service, while also acknowledging the role of guests and staff in its development.
As it marks its first anniversary, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives continues to focus on delivering curated guest experiences, with an emphasis on hospitality, design and sustainable operations within the destination.
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