Male’, Maldives, 23 July 2024 – Angsana Velavaru, an all-inclusive premium resort in the pristine South Nilandhe Atoll, is setting new standards in sustainability and cultural preservation. Rooted in the philosophy of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People,” the resort has launched an innovative initiative called ‘The Life Cycle of Coconut Leaf,’ breathing new life into discarded coconut leaves while empowering local communities.
Part of the Banyan Group, Angsana Velavaru honors Maldivian heritage and protects the environment through its unique approach to sustainability. The initiative begins with the regular planting and trimming of coconut trees on the resort. Instead of discarding the dried leaves, the resort partners with local communities to transform them into beautiful thatched roofs known as kajan.
The cycle starts with lush coconut palm trees providing shade and beauty to the resort. As leaves naturally die and turn brown, skilled climbers harvest them, promoting new growth and maintaining tree health. The dried leaves are then stored and prepared for traditional weaving. Local artisans collect these aged leaves and transform them into functional kajan roofing. The resort purchases the processed leaves, supporting local artisans and preserving traditional skills. The thatched panels are then installed on villa roofs, blending tradition with natural aesthetics. Old thatched roofs are repurposed, composted, and used to plant new coconut trees, completing the cycle of renewal. This initiative supports local communities, preserves cultural practices, and nurtures the environment.
Angsana Velavaru’s dedication to sustainability has earned it nominations in the Travel Trade Maldives 2024 under the Most Sustainable Resort category and the South Asian Travel Awards 2024 under the Leading Eco-Friendly Hotel/Resort category. The resort’s efforts to reduce its environmental footprint, conserve natural resources, and protect biodiversity through initiatives such as Marine Talk, Citizen Science Snorkelling, Coral Planting, and House Reef Cleanup are exemplary, setting a standard for responsible tourism.
In July 2023, the Green Sustainability Team, composed of passionate associates from various resort departments, launched the “SustainLinen Tote Bag with Purpose” initiative. This program, aimed at reducing plastic waste, provided eco-friendly alternatives to disposable plastic bags for resort associates. By September 2023, the initiative was expanded to include neighboring communities and in-house guests.
Taking their sustainability efforts a step further, in April 2024, the resort repurposed broken umbrellas into stylish and durable tote bags. This innovative step highlights Angsana Velavaru’s commitment to sustainability, demonstrating how even unexpected items can be transformed and given new life.
Angsana Velavaru is an all-inclusive premium resort located in the South Nilandhe Atoll, Maldives. Known for its commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation, the resort offers a unique blend of luxury and responsible tourism. For more information, visit Angsana Velavaru’s website.
