The Maldives, a Global Leader in Environmental Stewardship, for WTA’s World’s Leading Green Destination 2024

The Maldives, renowned for breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear waters, has earned the nomination for the World’s Leading Green Destination 2024 in the World Travel Awards (WTA), reflecting our commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly tourism practices. Our beautiful but delicate archipelago has made impressive strides toward preserving our natural resources, advocating for climate resilience, and promoting sustainable tourism, as evidenced by the global recognition we received just earlier this year as the WTA’s "Indian Ocean’s Leading Green Destination 2024”.

At the heart of the Maldives' sustainability initiatives are our eco-friendly resorts. These establishments operate with conservation in mind, integrating solar energy systems, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable waste management practices to minimise their environmental footprint. Many resorts also implement coral restoration programmes and have in-house teams to educate visitors on protecting the Maldives' invaluable ecosystems and biodiversity. The nation’s distinctive ‘one-island-one-resort’ model further supports conservation efforts by limiting overdevelopment on individual islands and encouraging controlled tourism. Designed with sustainably sourced materials and energy-efficient architecture, most resorts prioritise minimising their impact on the environment while delivering luxury experiences.

For eco-conscious travellers, the Maldives offers a wealth of nature-based activities, including eco-tours, guided nature walks, and animal-watching excursions, which allow guests to connect with the pristine environment. Additionally, many resorts and tour operators run tourist education programmes that emphasise the importance of protecting the fragile environment of the Maldives. These immersive programmes ensure that visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the critical need to preserve our stunning destination for future generations. Many resorts offer eco-friendly diving and snorkelling experiences, with marine biologists educating visitors on coral conservation, marine life protection, and the importance of responsible tourism.

Sustainability efforts extend to the local communities as well, where community-led projects focus on waste management, eco-friendly transportation, and traditional fishing practices that promote sustainable livelihoods. Tourists are encouraged to participate in these activities, deepening their understanding of the local culture and the importance of environmental preservation. Furthermore, the Maldives is committed to tackling ocean pollution, with initiatives such as collaborations with international organisations like Parley for the Oceans. Together, we work to remove plastic and debris from the ocean, addressing a pressing global environmental issue.

On the global stage, the Maldives has been a vocal advocate for climate action. We  participate in international climate change conferences, such as the UN Climate Change Conference (COP), calling for global efforts to combat rising sea levels and environmental degradation. Domestically, the Maldives has made significant strides in reducing plastic waste, including the ban on single-use plastics and the promotion of recycling programmes in both resorts and local communities.

Government-led efforts to address climate change and preserve the environment have further elevated the Maldives' standing as a global leader in sustainability. The Maldives has set a bold commitment to becoming carbon-neutral by 2030, driving the implementation of climate-resilient infrastructure and policies that support waste management and pollution reduction. A significant milestone is the expansion of marine protected areas (MPAs) throughout the archipelago, safeguarding its marine ecosystems and biodiversity. In addition, sustainable fishing practices—such as the Maldives' traditional pole-and-line method—help ensure the conservation of fish stocks while offering tourists an authentic and environmentally conscious experience. One of the Maldives’ ecological treasures is Hanifaru Bay, located in the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve. This protected area prohibits diving and allows only snorkelling to preserve the habitat for the large populations of manta rays and whale sharks that congregate there year-round. 

With our forward-thinking approach to sustainability, conservation, and climate resilience, the Maldives continues to lead by example in the realm of sustainable tourism. 

If you have experienced the majesty of the Maldives, or just want to make a contribution to our place as a leader in environmental stewardship, vote for the Maldives as the WTA’s World’s Leading Green Destination 2024.