In a landmark environmental initiative, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru will spearhead Saafu Kuramaa, the largest national community cleanup in Maldivian history, on September 20, 2025, marking the resort’s 30th anniversary of sustainable tourism.

The ambitious project aims to unite more than 180 islands and an estimated 30,000 participants in a simultaneous one-hour coastal cleanup from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, highlighting the critical importance of marine conservation in the island nation.

“As we celebrate 30 years of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Saafu Kuramaa reflects our commitment to embrace the environment that has sustained us and inspired travelers from around the world,” said Elias Pertoft, General Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “This is an invitation for every community to take part in shaping the Maldives’ future, together.”

With more than 99% of Maldivian territory covered by ocean, protecting the marine environment is crucial to the nation’s identity, economy, and future. The initiative goes beyond waste removal, focusing on raising awareness and inspiring environmental stewardship.

Nick Hardman, Regional Marine Lab Manager, emphasized the resort’s ongoing commitment: “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.”

Participation is open to a wide range of organizations, including:

  • Local councils and schools
  • NGOs and youth associations
  • Dive centres and guesthouses
  • Resorts and tourism partners

Each participating island will nominate a local coordinator to lead cleanup efforts in designated coastal areas such as beaches, harbors, sandbanks, or mangroves. Participants will be asked to submit comprehensive results, including total waste collected and number of volunteers, to create a unified national impact report.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has been a pioneer in marine conservation since 1995, establishing the first resort-based Marine Lab in the Maldives in 2004. The resort has consistently led innovative projects in coral planting, reef monitoring, and local culture preservation.

The cleanup embodies the resort’s core philosophy of embracing the environment and empowering people. As Pertoft noted, the initiative demonstrates that “when we come together, even one hour can create lasting change.”

Saafu Kuramaa: One Nation. One Ocean. One Hour.
20 September 2025 | 4:00 – 5:00 PM

For participation and coordination inquiries, contact:
Aminath Sama
CSR-Maldives@banyantree.com | (+960) 7461996

Learn more about their sustainability efforts.