
Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives has been awarded the Green Globe Re-Certification for the seventh consecutive year, along with Gold recognition for the second year in a row. This prestigious recognition highlights the resort's enduring commitment to sustainable tourism practices and its consistent efforts to exceed industry standards.
The Green Globe certification is a testament to the resort’s dedication to environmental responsibility, sustainable hospitality, and eco-friendly practices. The recognition comes after an extensive onsite audit, where Grand Park Kodhipparu demonstrated impressive compliance with sustainability benchmarks, solidifying its position as a leader in responsible tourism.
Key Sustainability Achievements for 2024:
One of the standout accomplishments for the resort has been the successful elimination of single-use plastics. Since 2018, the resort has made significant strides in replacing plastic items with reusable alternatives, resulting in a dramatic reduction of 450,000 plastic straws over five years. Additionally, the on-site bottling plant introduced in 2019 has further enhanced the resort's efforts by saving over 117,000 plastic bottles in 2023 alone.
Another significant initiative is the resort’s coral reef restoration project, which aims to increase both coral abundance and diversity. By utilizing innovative line nursery techniques, the resort achieved a remarkable 99% success rate in transplanting over 35 coral colonies to its house reef in 2023. This restoration initiative is vital for preserving the health of the marine ecosystem and enhancing the guest experience in the vibrant underwater world.
The resort has also made considerable progress in biodiversity conservation. Over 115 species of trees and plants have been documented, and efforts in collaboration with the Olive Ridley Project help monitor resident turtles, contributing to the protection of local wildlife. These conservation programs have deepened the connection between the resort’s guests and the rich marine life that surrounds it.
In line with its commitment to renewable energy, Grand Park Kodhipparu launched a solar power system on Earth Day 2021, which now provides over 10.56% of the resort’s electricity needs. This initiative has led to annual savings of approximately 150,000 liters of diesel, reducing the resort's carbon footprint. Energy-efficient lighting and water conservation measures complement this, demonstrating the resort’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact.
Fostering Awareness and Community Engagement:
At the heart of Grand Park Kodhipparu’s sustainability initiatives is the resort's Resident Marine Biologist, who plays a key role in educating guests and staff about marine conservation. Through regular talks, guided snorkeling tours, and interactive sessions, the resort helps visitors better understand the marine environment and encourages them to participate in protective measures.
The resort’s dedication to social responsibility is also reflected in its diverse workforce, which represents 22 nationalities. Grand Park Kodhipparu fosters an inclusive environment, providing training and development opportunities for staff, ensuring they are equipped to contribute to the resort’s sustainability goals.
Beyond its workforce, the resort engages with the local community through a range of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. These include celebrating local traditions, as well as global events such as World Oceans Day and Earth Day, which help to raise awareness of environmental issues.
Looking Toward the Future:
As Grand Park Kodhipparu looks to the future, the resort remains firmly committed to sustainability, guided by a comprehensive Sustainability Management Plan. The resort is dedicated to continuing its leadership in responsible tourism and setting new standards for environmental conservation and social responsibility in the Maldives.
With these ongoing efforts, Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives is poised to remain at the forefront of sustainable tourism, providing guests with memorable experiences while protecting the natural beauty of the Maldives for generations to come.