In a groundbreaking step toward environmental stewardship, Siyam World Resort has officially launched the Maldives’ first-ever plastic upcycling facility, setting a powerful precedent for sustainable innovation in the hospitality sector. The initiative, a collaboration between Siyam World and the local environmental NGO CLEAN Maldives, is already inspiring other resorts across the country to adopt similar community-driven waste management solutions.

The facility was inaugurated in a ceremony attended by Mr. Abdullah Thamheed, Vice President of Sun Siyam Resorts, and Ms. Hafsath Aleem, President and Founder of CLEAN Maldives. The project was made possible through a grant awarded to CLEAN Maldives under the World Bank-funded Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia (PLEASE) Project, implemented by the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) with support from the United Nations Office of Project Services (UNOPS).

Designed to transform hard plastic waste—such as shampoo bottles, oil containers, and detergent drums—into durable furniture items like chairs, sunbeds, and plant pots, the facility represents a major leap forward in circular economy practices in the Maldives. Notably, the initiative extends beyond resort operations: waste from the nearby island of Kudafari will also be processed, reinforcing the resort’s commitment to supporting local communities.

Under a collaborative agreement, 40% of the upcycled products will be allocated to CLEAN Maldives, while 60% will remain with the resort. Both parties have pledged to donate a significant portion of these products to neighboring islands for use in public spaces such as parks, beaches, and community centers.

The facility also serves as an educational platform. Siyam World plans to host guided tours for guests and school groups, raising awareness about plastic pollution and the importance of sustainable practices.

The inauguration event drew participation from representatives of the World Bank, UNOPS, local councils, and resort staff, all of whom praised the speed and impact of the project. The event underscored the strength of public-private partnerships in addressing environmental challenges.

This pioneering initiative has already begun to ripple across the tourism industry. Inspired by Siyam World’s leadership, several other resorts have expressed interest in establishing similar upcycling facilities and collaborating with local NGOs and island councils. The movement signals a promising shift toward a more sustainable and community-conscious tourism model in the Maldives.

As Siyam World and CLEAN Maldives continue to expand their partnership, the project stands as a beacon of innovation—proving that environmental responsibility and community empowerment can go hand in hand.