Banyan Group Publishes 2024 Sustainability Report

Banyan Group, a leader in sustainable hospitality, unveils its 2024 Sustainability Report—One Banyan, One Sustainable Future. The 19th edition reports on the Group’s advancements in driving action and impact across key environmental, social, and economic dimensions, reaffirming sustainability as a core foundation of its business. Guided by its founding mission and the belief that travel can be a force for good, the Group’s key progress in 2024 include:  

Accelerating decarbonisation and energy transition: In line with its ongoing commitment to addressing the business’ environmental impact, Banyan Group continued to invest in energy-efficient infrastructure and on-site renewable energy. Upgrades in lighting systems, air conditioning and room control units, as well as the installation of solar panels and timer controls across properties, resulted in a 5.7% reduction in emissions intensity per occupied room over 2023.  

Increasing waste management initiatives: Through an increased adoption of waste reduction, recycling and repurposing activities—including food donations, composting of kitchen waste and upcycling efforts—28% of total waste produced was diverted from landfill, a five-point increase from the previous year. 

Upholding responsible water stewardship: As a result of the Group’s approach to water conservation—focused on infrastructure repairs, proactive leak detection, enhanced storage capacity, and water reuse—water efficiency per occupied room improved by 5.1% compared to 2023.  

Championing marine conservation: Restorations and research projects play an important role in the way Banyan Group seeks to reduce the environmental impact of its operations—the expansion of Our Marine Lab in the Maldives alongside the launch of the Coral Reef Restoration Project in partnership with the China Environmental Protection Foundation (CEPF) in 2024 reinforced its commitment to such conservation efforts.  

Deepening support for local communities: The Group maintained its commitment to uplifting local communities and fostering long-term resilience through education, engagement, and employment opportunities—its signature Seedlings programme nurtured 93 young individuals through training and mentorship, and provided 2,515 internship opportunities. In a continued effort to support heritage traditions and promote rural production to strengthen local economies, the Group expanded its artisan network—commissioning products that supported 306 artisan communities, including 66 newly engaged groups. 

Driving change with Greater Good Grants: To commemorate Banyan Group’s 30th anniversary in 2024, the Banyan Global Foundation funded 30 associate-initiated projects addressing the key material topics identified by the Group. The projects were selected based on criteria including the long-term social, environmental, welfare, and/or financial benefits to the communities where the Group’s hotels and resorts operate. For more information on the projects, visit: Greater Good Grants 

“Sustainability is a cornerstone of Banyan Group’s purpose, and our journey will continue to evolve as we look to scale increasingly impactful practices in the upcoming years—with more ambitious climate action, deeper community engagement, and greater support for our associates to take action,” said Ho Ren Yung, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Banyan Group. 

 Angsana Velavaru’ s Progress  

Angsana Velavaru’ s 2024 highlights reflect its continued alignment with Banyan Group’s sustainability vision, embracing environmental stewardship, community connection, and team-led impact. 

Coral regeneration and guest engagement: In response to the global coral bleaching event of early 2024, Angsana Velavaru temporarily paused its coral restoration programme. However, the resort’s Marine Lab resumed its efforts in October, ushering in a renewed chapter of conservation. Guests have since been welcomed to participate in guided coral planting sessions, where they play a hands-on role in nurturing reef ecosystems. Since October, approximately 40 coral frames— harbouring over 1,000 fragments—have been transplanted, creating opportunities for awareness, connection, and stewardship beneath the waves. 

Plastic-free pledge in action: Angsana Velavaru continues to advance its commitment to eliminating single-use plastics across the island. A notable achievement was the transition to an in-house glass water bottling system, reducing waste while maintaining guest convenience. Furthering this initiative, the housekeeping team creatively upcycled damaged linen and umbrellas into tote bags and reusable napkins for the associate restaurant – demonstrating both innovation and a hands-on approach to sustainability. 

Zero Net Journey: In alignment with Banyan Group’s carbon reduction ambitions, Angsana Velavaru reached a significant milestone in 2024 with the completion of the second phase of its solar panel installation. This advancement enables the resort to generate over 1,500 kWh of clean, renewable energy each day—contributing to a 3.8% reduction in diesel consumption (land operations) and a measurable decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. More than a technical upgrade, this initiative embodies Angsana Velavaru’s steadfast commitment to shaping a low-carbon future, where responsible innovation supports both operational excellence and the protection of the island’s delicate natural environment.  

Community connections: The resort deepened its engagement with local communities through a variety of initiatives in 2024 until now. Educational visits welcomed students from neighbouring islands for marine conservation sessions and hospitality career introductions. As part of ongoing cultural programming, local artisans regularly host traditional craft workshops for guests, while weekly Boduberu performances by local musicians celebrate Maldivian heritage and provide vital support to the island economy. Additionally, through the 2025 Greater Good Grants (GGG) Fund, Angsana Velavaru supported the creation of a fully equipped computer lab for a partner school- enhancing digital access and education for local youth.  

Community connections: The resort deepened its engagement with local communities through a variety of initiatives in 2024 until now. Educational visits welcomed students from neighbouring islands for marine conservation sessions and hospitality career introductions. As part of ongoing cultural programming, local artisans regularly host traditional craft workshops for guests, while weekly Boduberu performances by local musicians celebrate Maldivian heritage and provide vital support to the island economy. Additionally, through the 2025 Greater Good Grants (GGG) Fund, Angsana Velavaru supported the creation of a fully equipped computer lab for a partner school- enhancing digital access and education for local youth.  

“At Angsana Velavaru, sustainability is not a department – it’s a shared responsibility. We’re proud of our team’s commitment to protecting the incredible natural environment we call home, and to building meaningful bridges with our surrounding communities,” said Ahmed Zahir, General Manager, Angsana Velavaru.