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Green Globe Recertification for VARU by Atmosphere

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VARU by Atmosphere has secured the prestigious Green Globe Recertification for sustainable resort operations, following a rigorous audit encompassing over 44 mandatory core criteria. Located in the North-West edge of Malé Atoll in the Maldives, the 5-star resort offers a truly Maldivian experience by incorporating aspects of local traditions and cultures, structural design – fused together with bursts of chic tropical vibes.

Green Globe recognises organisations that demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainable management, social responsibility, cultural heritage, economic stability and environmental conservation. Regarding this latest certification, Mei P Pun the General Manager of VARU by Atmosphere says, “Sustainability is at the core of our philosophy ‘Joy of Giving,’ and we believe in genuine, impactful changes. The goal is to create delightful guests experiences, while remaining respectful towards the local environment and community. For example, as part of biodiversity conservation, we are working towards building a coral garden. A frame of corals has been successfully tested, and the program will be launched this year”.

Sustainability is an essential part of the long-term business growth at Atmosphere Core, the company that manages VARU by Atmosphere. There is continuous effort towards driving CORE IMPACT — across Communities, Operations, Resources and Environment. Elaborating on this approach, Mei adds, “We are progressively integrating KPIs for sustainability into our performance management planning. While goal setting is important, I also believe in making the initiatives educational, fun and purposeful for both guests and colleagues. We hope that our efforts can drive real change and become tomorrow’s standard”.

As a part of the Atmosphere Colleague Development Program (ACDP), the Learning & Development team identifies, develops and encourages potential high performers. Following dedicated mentorship, the resort recently celebrated the graduation of four colleagues through the program. This achievement proves the efficacy of ACDP in sculpting hospitality leaders.

Community initiatives by the resort team reflect a genuine desire to make meaningful contributions to society. A recent initiative is the ‘Give Back Day.’ As a part of this program, the VARU team partnered with Fivathi Orphanage to organise a special Iftar event for 90 children. Similarly, the team recently organised a trip to nearby K. Huraa island to promote hospitality opportunities in for Maldivian youth, fostering economic empowerment and a sense of belonging within the community. During the pandemic, VARU by Atmosphere stepped up to support local communities by providing essential supplies to the Health Center. Contributions included face masks, new bed sheets, towels, and testing kits that served as a lifeline.

The resort embraces its responsibility to tread lightly upon the Earth by minimising operational impact on the island ecosystem. From energy-saving measures to waste reduction strategies, every aspect of operations aligns with environmental conservation goals. Noteworthy initiatives include 99% energy-efficient LED lighting, renewable solar energy infrastructure, paperless check in, island kitchen garden and a water bottling plant to eliminate plastic waste. By botting water in-house, the resort eliminates the use of more than 100,000 plastic bottles a year. There is also a focus on reducing waste generation, and recycling in partnership with leading recycling companies in the Maldives.

Water use is also carefully audited. Guests are encouraged to participate in the Towel and Linen Reuse Programme, wherein they can opt for a change of sheets and towels every third day to save water. A wastewater treatment centre ensures that grey water is used for irrigation and gardening, thus saving a considerable amount of portable water.

The resort also prioritises centralised sourcing while favouring local supplies, such as sourcing fish directly from local fishermen, and importing specialty items only. Furthermore, the team actively engages in reef and island cleaning activities, underscoring its commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives for generations to come.

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Sun Siyam Iru Veli organises tree planting activity for Earth Day

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In celebration of Earth Day 2026, Sun Siyam Iru Veli, part of the Privé Collection within the House of Sun Siyam, hosted a purposeful evening inspired by this year’s global theme, Our Power, Our Planet. The evening brought together guests and team members for a meaningful tree planting ceremony along the shores of Magoodhoo Beach. It was an evening dedicated to celebrating the belief that everyday actions can lead to lasting environmental progress through collective, community-led effort.

The bamboo planted during this ceremony was chosen with purpose, representing more than a symbolic gesture. This fast-growing plant absorbs high levels of carbon dioxide, releases generous amounts of oxygen, and regenerates naturally from its root system. For small islands, it offers a thoughtful and space-efficient solution that supports greener landscapes while helping protect fragile coastlines. The planting also builds on a growing legacy at Magoodhoo Beach, where coconut trees planted during last year’s Eid celebrations are now thriving, adding new life and shade to the island’s natural beauty.

Sustainability at Sun Siyam Iru Veli is a year-round commitment shaped through everyday action. Earlier this April, 29 team members took part in a recycling training session led by the resort’s Training and Quality Assurance team, reinforcing environmental awareness across departments. Fresh herbs and produce grown on the island, including chillies, limes, coriander, rosemary, and pandan leaves, are incorporated into culinary experiences across the resort. Craftsmanship also plays a meaningful role, with statement planters, tabletops, and other design elements created in-house by the resort’s skilled engineers and carpenters using repurposed materials, reducing waste and transport impact while adding character and authenticity.

These initiatives reflect Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s year-round commitment to thoughtful hospitality, responsible island living, and the values of Sun Siyam Care. They are guided by a belief that meaningful progress is shaped through consistent action, and the resort remains dedicated to preserving the beauty of its surroundings while creating impactful experiences for the guests.

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The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort engages guests in Earth Day initiatives

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The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort marked Earth Day with a resort-wide celebration that brought guests closer to the destination’s natural environment and the sustainability practices that help preserve it. From coastal protection to responsible dining, the program was designed as a hands-on experience, reflecting the resort’s ongoing focus on sustainable operations and meaningful guest engagement.

The day began with a behind-the-scenes sustainability tour, inviting guests to step into the resort’s back of house to discover the facilities and initiatives that support its environmental efforts. The tour then led into a tree-planting activity, where guests planted Sea Lettuce and coconut trees. Selected for their strong root systems, Sea Lettuce trees can hold sand in place, making them particularly effective in reducing erosion and strengthening coastlines against wind and waves.

Guests were also invited to take part in a Lagoon Health Check, a guided coastal walk focused on monitoring shoreline conditions and collecting any waste found along the way. Nestled in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters where vibrant marine life thrives, making the experience as much about appreciation as it is about care. Through this proactive check, guests helped ensure the surrounding environment remains healthy and free of waste, reflecting the idea that sustainability is strengthened through consistent attention.

The celebration concluded with Garden to Plate, an elevated dinner that officially launched the resort’s new garden dining experience. Set amid lush greenery at a beautifully styled table decorated with seedlings and a flowing water fountain, the evening showcased a menu inspired by local ingredients harvested from the garden and demonstrated how thoughtful sourcing can shape a more sustainable dining culture. The multi-course menu included the resort’s signature Garden Salad, Tuna Tartare featuring local catch, and Executive Chef Alberto’s signature Mushroom Risotto.

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort continues to advance broader environmental progress through efforts such as harnessing solar power and its recent Green Globe certification, reflecting the resort’s long-term commitment to sustainability across its operations.

To learn more about responsible travel at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, or to plan a rejuvenating tropical escape, visit westin-maldives.com.

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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands expands Summer Collective programme for 2026

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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has unveiled the return of its highly anticipated ‘Summer Collective’ for 2026, a season-long series of immersive moments designed to celebrate nature, wellness, culture, and creativity across the islands. Set against one of the world’s most extraordinary ocean landscapes, this year’s edition expands its programming with global talent, signature partnerships, and island-wide activations for all ages.

From June through August, the resort transforms into a living canvas of discovery bringing together celebrated wellness leaders, artists, chefs, and environmental advocates, creating opportunities for families to connect, explore, and learn together. Each element is thoughtfully curated to inspire curiosity, deepen connection, and foster meaningful engagement with the surrounding marine and island environment.

Younger visitors are welcomed through Ritz Kids, where interactive programming blends education, play, and purpose, while adults explore world-class wellness, culinary artistry, and cultural immersion across the resort’s iconic spaces.

June – Environment, Wellness, and Fifth Anniversary Celebrations

June marks the opening of the Summer Collective with a month dedicated to environment, ocean preservation, wellness, and celebration, anchored by the fifth anniversary of the resort’s opening. Throughout the month, guests can enjoy a dynamic lineup of island-wide bar takeovers from June 6-8 led by world-class mixology talent from Asia’s 50 Best Bars, such as The St. Regis Bar Jakarta, Punch Room Tokyo, and Bar Sathorn.

Environmental and ocean awareness programming offers immersive workshops, talks, and excursions led by the resort’s Naturalists, focusing on marine ecosystems, sustainability, and conservation that encourages families to discover and protect the ocean together. This is complemented by Visiting Hero eco-journalist Sarah Roberts from June 10-14, as well an ongoing collaboration with conservation partners, including the Olive Ridley Project, an official partner from June onwards.

The weekly Summer Collective calendar in June centres on restorative, nature-led experiences, with offerings such as a Kombucha Masterclass, daily fitness sessions, and engaging, educational environmental challenges designed for younger guests. Wellness takes center stage through Deep Blue Presence, the resort’s new emotional signature philosophy, brought to life through a three-day “Blue”-themed immersive journey led by yoga instructor Anabella Landa from June 20-22. The retreat, part of the Masters of Crafts:

Essence of Balance, honours both International Yoga Day and the launch of Deep Blue Presence with sunrise yoga, oceanfront breathwork, sound healing, and restorative spa rituals designed to align body, breath, and ocean energy.

July – Surf, Movement, and Adventure

July is dedicated to surf, movement, and ocean connection, highlighted by the return of world-renowned surfer Nic von Rupp, who will host a dedicated Surf Retreat from July 1-11. A great activity for families, guests of all ages are invited to engage in guided surf lessons across beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, alongside inspiring talks on resilience and life in the ocean.

Building on this energy, the island’s weekly programming brings the theme to life through a dynamic mix of recreation, fitness, and marine exploration. Guests can take to the water with experiences such as turtle snorkelling, shark quests, and sunset dolphin cruises, or deepen their connection to the marine world through naturalist-led activities including coral regeneration, lagoon life discovery, and island ecosystem explorations. On land, sport-driven moments range from pickleball, padel, tennis clinics to beach volleyball, high-energy workouts, and sunrise yoga, encouraging movement at every pace. Creative workshops like surfboard painting and eco-craft sessions offer a more relaxed, yet still ocean-inspired, expression of the theme.

August – Art, Culture, and Vibrant Fari Islands Festival

August brings the Summer Collective to a creative and cultural crescendo, blending art, culinary innovation, wellness, and environmental storytelling. From August 13-15, the Fari Islands Festival presents a multidisciplinary cultural showcase featuring Wagyu Mafia’s culinary residency with three immersive beachfront dining moments at Beach Shack. Artist Tomislav Topic leads an expressive art collaboration through hands-on oil pastel workshops, alongside a curated island-wide exhibition and a site-specific installation at EAU Bar. The Olive Ridley Project will bring one Visiting Hero while wellness and lifestyle partnerships with Bamford and REFY by Jess Hunt, further enrich the stay through curated gifting, beauty rituals, and immersive wellness touchpoints.

Extending this creative spirit across the month, daily activities invite all ages to engage with art and nature in meaningful, hands-on ways. Experiences range from textured canvas painting, ceramic sculpting, and mosaic-making to playful workshops such as reef-inspired art, ocean slime creation, and tropical tie-dye. Marine discovery remains central, with naturalist-led sessions alongside interactive elements such as VR ocean adventures and guided lagoon snorkelling. Wellness continues with grounding rhythm of yoga, meditation, and beach fitness. Together, these elements create a thoughtfully layered program where artistic expression and environmental awareness come together in a distinctly island-inspired setting, designed to be enjoyed across generations.

To complete a summer of connection, the resort invites guests to experience the Maldives through its‘Embrace Island Life’ offer across its portfolio of private island resorts. Available to book now for stays through December 23, 2026, with a minimum four-night stay required, the offer is designed for a seamless and rewarding island escape. Inclusions such as daily breakfast and dinner, return transfers, create an effortless way to reconnect in one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. More details are here.

For more information, please visit the resort’s website

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