In a landmark commitment to marine ecosystem protection, Gili Lankanfushi has emerged as a pioneer in seagrass conservation, pledging to preserve 1,250m² of critical marine habitat within its Maldivian lagoon. This ambitious initiative represents over 80% of the area’s total seagrass coverage, setting a new standard for sustainable luxury tourism in the Maldives.
The resort’s groundbreaking pledge was unveiled during the Seagrass Industry Leaders Circle launch event on Dhiffushi Island, where 17 leading resorts united to protect these crucial marine ecosystems. Often dubbed the ‘lungs of the sea,’ seagrass meadows play a critical role in carbon sequestration, marine biodiversity, and coastal protection.
Renald Yude, the resort’s Marine Biologist and Sustainability Manager, emphasized the ecological significance of their conservation efforts. “Our commitment goes beyond preservation—it’s about understanding and actively supporting marine ecosystem health,” Yude explained. “Through rigorous scientific monitoring, we’re gaining invaluable insights into these complex underwater habitats.”
The resort’s scientific approach involves comprehensive quadrat-based surveys that meticulously document seagrass conditions, including canopy height, algal cover, sediment composition, and wildlife populations. These meadows serve as critical nurseries for diverse marine species, including sea turtles, rays, seahorses, and juvenile reef fish.
Organized by Maldives Resilient Reefs and the Blue Marine Foundation, the July 2025 event was officially inaugurated by the Maldives’ Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment. The gathering highlighted the urgent need for marine conservation and collaborative industry approaches to environmental protection.
Gili Lankanfushi’s commitment extends far beyond seagrass preservation. The resort’s comprehensive sustainability strategy includes innovative initiatives like the Coral Lines project, which provides a nurturing environment for coral restoration. Guests can actively participate in these conservation efforts, gaining hands-on experience in marine ecosystem rehabilitation.
The resort’s eco-conscious philosophy is deeply integrated into every aspect of its operations. Sustainable infrastructure features include villas constructed from responsibly sourced materials like plantation teak, bamboo, and recycled telegraph poles. Practical sustainability measures, such as refillable ceramic toiletry containers and a dedicated desalination plant, further demonstrate the resort’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact.
Strategic partnerships with conservation organizations like the Manta Trust and the Olive Ridley Project underscore Gili Lankanfushi’s holistic approach to marine protection. By supporting vulnerable marine species and implementing sustainable practices, the resort proves that luxury hospitality and environmental stewardship can coexist harmoniously.
Nestled in the pristine North Malé Atoll, just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, Gili Lankanfushi offers more than just a tropical escape. With its pioneering conservation efforts and signature ‘no news, no shoes’ philosophy, the resort represents a new paradigm of responsible luxury travel in the Maldives.
