As the global tourism industry places increasing emphasis on environmental stewardship and social responsibility, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is advancing a clear and consistent approach that positions collaboration and transparency at the heart of its sustainability journey. The resort continues to demonstrate that long-term, meaningful progress is built through shared responsibility, strong partnerships, and a willingness to engage openly with both challenges and solutions.
In 2025, sustainability and regeneration were formally embedded into the core of the resort’s operations, supported by the decision to undergo independent auditing as part of achieving Green Globe certification. This process reinforced the importance of working closely with partners and industry stakeholders, particularly in addressing waste management, which remains one of the most complex sustainability challenges facing island destinations such as the Maldives. General Manager Mark Eletr notes that each resort functions much like a self-contained community, responsible for water production, wastewater treatment and waste disposal, making collective action essential. He stresses that while individual properties can make improvements, the scale of the challenge requires cooperation across the destination.
Guest engagement forms a central pillar of Kandooma’s approach. The resort actively educates visitors on responsible consumption, waste separation and resource conservation, while also working with procurement partners to reduce unnecessary packaging and replace materials such as polystyrene and single-use plastics with more sustainable alternatives. Eletr explains that many guests arrive from countries with highly developed recycling systems, and may not initially realise that the Maldives does not yet have large-scale facilities to safely process certain materials. Simple actions, such as encouraging guests to take used batteries home for responsible disposal, contribute to reducing environmental risk and raising awareness about the realities of island waste management.
Rather than viewing these constraints as barriers, Kandooma has embraced them as opportunities for innovation and partnership. The resort openly shares its experiences, recognising that progress is accelerated when successes and lessons are communicated across the industry. This openness was a key focus during the Green Globe audit, where Kandooma’s network of partnerships and collaborative initiatives were closely assessed as part of strengthening sustainability outcomes.
One of the resort’s significant collaborations is with Parley for the Oceans, supporting the AIR strategy of Avoid, Intercept and Redesign. Through this partnership, Kandooma participates in plastic interception and clean-up activities, including initiatives on uninhabited islands, while continuing to reduce single-use plastics across its operations. These efforts align with IHG Hotels & Resorts’ global Journey to Tomorrow framework, reinforcing the brand’s broader commitment to responsible business practices.
In 2025, Kandooma further expanded its circular economy efforts through a partnership with Secure Bag, a company that purchases waste materials and transforms them into new, usable products. This initiative reflects the resort’s belief that resources should be given a second life wherever possible, helping to minimise landfill impact while creating new value from materials that would otherwise be discarded.
As a four-star resort, Kandooma acknowledges that it does not have the same financial capacity as some ultra-luxury properties. However, it has adopted a pragmatic and creative approach to supporting conservation initiatives aligned with its values. A notable example is its partnership with the Manta Trust, an organisation dedicated to the protection of manta rays and their habitats. To support this cause, the resort introduced a range of silver and gold manta ray pendants, with US$5 from every piece sold donated directly to the Manta Trust. The initiative not only generates funds but also encourages meaningful conversations with guests about marine conservation and the importance of protecting these iconic species.
Complementing this effort, Kandooma hosts “Manta Month” each September, celebrating the presence of manta rays in the surrounding waters and highlighting opportunities for guests to observe these graceful creatures in their natural environment. The event serves as both an educational platform and a reminder of the close connection between healthy marine ecosystems and sustainable tourism.
Transparency remains a defining feature of Kandooma’s sustainability strategy. The resort has developed a publicly available Sustainability Guide, known as the Green Book, which outlines key initiatives, partnerships and actions across environmental, social and governance areas. Designed for guests, partners and industry peers, the guide reflects Kandooma’s commitment to accountability and continuous improvement.
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is proud to be Green Globe certified, joining a global community of tourism businesses that meet one of the industry’s most respected sustainability standards. Green Globe certification is based on verified compliance with more than 40 rigorous criteria covering environmental management, social responsibility, cultural heritage protection and sustainable operations, with a strong focus on measurable performance and ongoing progress.
Looking ahead, the resort remains dedicated to strengthening partnerships, empowering guests to make responsible travel choices, and contributing positively to the preservation of the Maldives’ unique natural and cultural heritage. Through collaboration, creativity and openness, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives continues to demonstrate how responsible tourism can deliver meaningful benefits for both people and the planet.
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