As Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru commemorates 30 years of barefoot eco-luxury this September, the resort is celebrating not only its legacy as a trailblazer in sustainable tourism but also reaffirming its enduring commitment to environmental protection with a powerful national initiative. On 20 September 2025, in observance of International Coastal Cleanup Day, the resort will lead Saafu Kuramaa, a community-driven campaign set to be the Maldives’ largest-ever nationwide coastal cleanup.
The initiative will bring together over 180 islands and an estimated 30,000 participants for a synchronized one-hour cleanup effort from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The campaign calls upon communities from across the country, local councils, schools, NGOs, youth organizations, dive centers, guesthouses, and resorts to take collective action to preserve the delicate marine ecosystems that define the Maldives’ identity and charm.
Reflecting on the resort’s journey, Elias Pertoft, General Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, emphasized, “As we celebrate 30 years of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Saafu Kuramaa reflects our commitment to embrace the environment that has sustained us and inspired travellers from around the world. It is an invitation for every community to take part in shaping the Maldives’ future, together. This is also a powerful reminder that when we come together, even one hour can create lasting change.”
With 99% of Maldivian territory covered by ocean, the initiative is more than just a cleanup, it is an act of stewardship. The campaign aims to raise public awareness, encourage active community participation, and foster long-term responsibility in protecting the Maldives’ marine and coastal environments. Each participating island will appoint a local coordinator, designate a coastal area, beach, harbour, sandbank, or mangrove and mobilize volunteers to clean simultaneously. The groups will also be asked to submit their results, including the volume of waste collected and volunteer numbers, contributing to a national impact assessment.
Nick Hardman, Regional Marine Lab Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru, noted, “At Banyan Tree, environmental stewardship is at the heart of what we do. All Banyan Group properties conduct a minimum of four community cleanups every year, and Saafu Kuramaa represents our most ambitious effort yet. This campaign aims to be the largest community cleanup we’ve ever organized, and we’re calling on individuals of all ages and islands to join us in making a real, lasting impact for our coasts and communities.”
Since opening its doors in 1995, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has set benchmarks for sustainable hospitality in the Maldives. The resort established the country’s first resort-based Marine Lab in 2004, which has played a vital role in coral restoration, reef monitoring, and marine conservation. The property is also deeply involved in guest education and local community outreach, integrating environmental consciousness into the luxury travel experience.
With its signature barefoot luxury and serene natural surroundings, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has captivated visitors seeking a tranquil escape and an opportunity to reconnect with nature. Its commitment to sustainability has remained unwavering, with eco-conscious architecture, conservation programs, and initiatives like coral gardening that allow guests to engage directly in environmental preservation.
The Saafu Kuramaa campaign marks a pivotal moment not only for the resort but also for the Maldives as a whole. It is a call to action—uniting government bodies, the hospitality industry, civil society, and local citizens, in one shared mission to protect the shores that draw millions of visitors each year.
As part of its 30th anniversary, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is celebrating not only its contributions to sustainable tourism but also inviting communities across the Maldives to co-create a cleaner, more resilient future.
For participation and coordination enquiries, contact Aminath Sama at [email protected] or via phone at +960 7461996.
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