One&Only Reethi Rah has been awarded the prestigious EarthCheck Platinum Certification, a globally recognised mark of environmental leadership in the travel and tourism sector. The accolade highlights the resort’s long-standing dedication to sustainability and operational excellence, placing it among an elite group of properties that meet the highest international benchmarks for environmental performance.
Nestled in the pristine waters of North Malé Atoll, One&Only Reethi Rah is renowned for its luxurious offering of 118 private villas set across a lush tropical island. With over 20 years of continuous operation, the resort has steadily integrated sustainability into its core philosophy, ensuring that its world-class hospitality aligns with environmental responsibility. The Platinum Certification is awarded only to organisations that have maintained consistent EarthCheck certification for a minimum of 10 years and have demonstrated measurable outcomes across key sustainability metrics.
The EarthCheck audit process rigorously assesses various environmental impact indicators including energy efficiency, water usage, waste management, and community engagement. At One&Only Reethi Rah, this commitment is reflected in numerous resort-wide initiatives that contribute to conservation and sustainable development. The resort produces its own drinking water using reverse osmosis technology and recycles greywater for landscape irrigation, reducing dependence on external water sources.
A central element of the resort’s eco-efforts is its waste-to-resource program. Organic waste is processed into biogas and nutrient-rich fertiliser, supporting on-island energy production and agriculture. A solar energy system helps reduce carbon emissions, complemented by the exclusive use of zero-emission vehicles for internal transportation. The installation of an on-site water bottling facility has dramatically cut down the use of single-use plastics, and environmentally friendly heating systems contribute to efficient resource consumption.
Protecting the surrounding marine ecosystem is a key focus of One&Only Reethi Rah’s sustainability strategy. The resort maintains an active partnership with the Olive Ridley Project, which supports the rescue and rehabilitation of sea turtles, an important species in the Maldives’ marine biodiversity. Coral propagation efforts are also underway, ensuring the resilience of the island’s vibrant reef systems. These conservation activities are guided by real-time environmental monitoring and data-driven decision-making, underpinned by preventive maintenance across resort infrastructure.
Sustainability extends to the resort’s internal culture and community engagement. Employees are trained in sustainable practices, and the resort prioritises sourcing goods and services from local producers, contributing to the Maldivian economy while reducing the environmental footprint of operations. Partnerships with surrounding communities further strengthen the resort’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
Commenting on the achievement, Jan Tibaldi, General Manager of One&Only Reethi Rah, noted, “Platinum Certification is not just a mark of achievement, it’s a symbol of responsibility. It reminds us of our role in protecting the environment we are so privileged to inhabit and share with guests from around the world.”
As one of the most iconic private island resorts in the Maldives, One&Only Reethi Rah continues to set new standards for sustainable luxury. Plans are already underway to expand its environmental initiatives, reinforcing the systems that have earned it international recognition. The EarthCheck Platinum Certification not only affirms the resort’s environmental commitment but also enhances its appeal to environmentally conscious travellers seeking authentic, responsible experiences in one of the world’s most celebrated island destinations.
For discerning visitors looking to experience the Maldives with a sense of purpose, One&Only Reethi Rah offers an opportunity to indulge in unmatched luxury while supporting meaningful environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.