Sustainability | Experience Eco-Friendly Hospitality Today

Stay Today. Protect Tomorrow.

At The Barefoot Eco Hotel, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. From the way we design our spaces to the experiences we create for our guests, every choice is made with a deep respect for nature, culture, and community. We believe that the beauty of the Maldives should not only be admired today, but carefully protected so it can be cherished for generations to come.

Our commitment goes far beyond reducing footprints: it’s about nurturing connections. We care for the ecosystems that surround us, honor the traditions of our local communities, and create meaningful experiences that allow our guests to feel a true sense of place.

This journey was proudly recognized in 2021, when The Barefoot Eco Hotel was awarded the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification. This prestigious certification represents the highest international standard of sustainability in travel and hospitality. It reflects our dedication to reducing energy and water use, promoting reuse and recycling, supporting workforce diversity and inclusivity, and preserving the authenticity of local cultures.

When you stay with us, you’re not only enjoying the Maldives, you’re becoming part of a shared story of care, responsibility, and hope for a brighter, more sustainable future.

Group of five scuba divers underwater, holding hands, with a basket in the center. They are floating above a coral reef.

Underwater Life

Marine excursions

All our marine excursions have been created and developed to reduce the impact on the environment, while also contributing to the monitoring of biodiversity and economy of the local community. Guests have the opportunity to support concretely the process by adhering to the numerous “conservation snorkelling” that take place within a monitoring framework. In reality, we don’t just watch dolphins and manta rays; we also keep track of them with the help of tourists. Thanks to these activities we are able to collect biologically significant evidence indicating the dynamics and behaviour of the population of these wonderful species on a short- and long-term scale.

Guests are invited to participate in the following activities throughout their stay:

To protect the beach and associated systems, the marine biologist and diving center arrange clean-up days. As a result, we are able to maintain the environment clean and, more importantly, we are able to raise awareness of waste decomposition among our guests.
We hold workshops about marine life three nights a week, covering topics from turtles to sharks, rays, dolphins, fish families, coral reefs, and plastic pollution. Moreover, blue planet documentaries and diving video are broadcast during the week after dinner.

Moreover, we rely on a specific Code of Conduct for the interactions with the gigantic manta rays. We insist that our snorkeler and diver guests follow it when getting across with these beautiful animals.

We have also collaborated with Manta Trust taking part in the Maldivian Manta Ray Project, a project founded to learn more about the life cycle, population dynamics and habitat usage of the Maldives manta population. Throughout the research we can help the worldwide conservation of manta rays and in the meantime, we provide the guests with marine education and we spread the importance of their survival.

Underwater photo of two women swimming and a sea turtle among rocks and coral.

Turtle and manta monitoring

Our Atoll hosts green and hawksbill sea turtles. Thanks to the project of ID monitoring that we are carrying on with the Olive Ridley association, which is based here in the Maldives, we are able to identify each turtle of the area as an individual. By doing so we can study and learn about the local population and its distribution.

Besides, we follow a Code of Conduct for how to behave with these magnificent animals while snorkeling and diving. We are very keen on sharing with the tourists the opportunity to see them, but even more important for us is that there is respect for this marine species. For this reason, we expose several flyers on how to behave and the code is always repeated to customers at each excursion.

Help us photograph and identify green and hawksbill turtles seen on our snorkel and dive sites.
We are fortunate to be one of the only beaches in the Maldives that is home to the olive turtle’s nest. In fact, this specie is an oceanic one and rarely reaches the reefs. We take minimal data while the female is on the beach so as not to disturb her.
Juveniles will hatch approximately two months after nesting, usually May through September.
We rescue and provide assistance to any turtles we encounter that are injured or stuck in a ghost net.

A clear glass bottled beverage with a swing top cap labeled 'The Barefoot' on a sandy beach with seaplane in the ocean and blue sky with few clouds in the background.

On Land

All our structures are built using wood sourced from responsibly managed forests. This means that for every tree harvested, another is planted, ensuring the long-term preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity. By choosing certified sustainable timber, we minimize deforestation and promote environmentally conscious construction practices.
We use renewable energy sources to heat the water for our guests’ showers. Through a heat exchanger system, energy from natural sources—such as the sun or residual heat—is efficiently converted to warm water, reducing overall energy consumption and carbon emissions while maintaining comfort and reliability.
We are committed to minimizing the use of single-use plastics throughout the resort. From replacing plastic straws and bottles with eco-friendly alternatives to encouraging refillable containers, our goal is to eliminate unnecessary waste and protect marine life from pollution.
Our potable water is bottled directly within the resort in reusable glass containers. This initiative helps reduce the transportation footprint, avoids disposable packaging, and ensures a continuous supply of clean, sustainable drinking water for our guests.
Fresh fruits and vegetables come straight from our own organic garden, guaranteeing seasonal, locally grown produce. This “farm-to-table” approach supports a short supply chain, reduces transportation emissions, and ensures our guests enjoy nutritious, flavorful ingredients harvested just steps away from their plates.
We prioritize purchasing goods and raw materials from Hanimaadhoo Island and neighboring islands. By sourcing locally, we support the local economy, promote traditional craftsmanship, and reduce the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation.
We use ecological methods to control mosquitoes and other pests, such as natural traps and biological deterrents, instead of chemical pesticides. This protects both our guests and the surrounding ecosystem, maintaining a healthy and safe environment.
We host culinary events that highlight local ingredients and sustainable cooking techniques. These experiences allow guests to discover the richness of our region’s flavors while learning about responsible food practices and the importance of supporting local farmers and producers.

Our sustainability program on land is guided by a holistic vision that integrates environmental responsibility, community support, and energy efficiency into every aspect of our operations. By implementing concrete initiatives – from renewable energy systems to waste reduction and local sourcing – we aim to minimize our ecological footprint while promoting a sustainable future for the island of Hanimaadhoo and its people.

Two women wearing headscarves standing behind a table of food at an outdoor gathering.

In the Community

Beyond environmental sustainability, our resort is deeply committed to the wellbeing and growth of the local community. We believe that true hospitality begins with respect for the people, the culture, and the traditions of Hanimaadhoo Island and the Maldives as a whole. Through long-term partnerships, educational initiatives, and employment opportunities, we strive to make a meaningful and lasting contribution to the social and economic development of the islands we call home.

We have actively contributed to the development of key infrastructure on Hanimaadhoo Island, including the construction of several classrooms for the local school, the fish market, the waste disposal site, and the island’s sewage system. We also supported the restoration of the mosque in Kumundhoo. These projects aim to improve daily life for residents and promote sustainable urban and social development within the local community.
We prioritize hiring men and women from Hanimaadhoo Island, creating stable and inclusive job opportunities within our resort. This approach not only supports local families but also strengthens the sense of belonging and pride among our team members, ensuring that our guests experience genuine Maldivian hospitality rooted in community values.
We proudly celebrate and share the rich cultural heritage of the Maldives through immersive guest experiences. Our guests can join guided bicycle tours around Hanimaadhoo Island or visit nearby villages such as Utheemu, home to the historic Utheemu Palace, to learn about Maldivian traditions, craftsmanship, and everyday island life. These experiences foster cultural exchange and help preserve the authenticity of local customs.
We support educational and environmental awareness programs in the local school and provide internships and training opportunities throughout the year. By investing in education and skill development, we empower the younger generations of Hanimaadhoo to build a sustainable and prosperous future, both for themselves and for their community.
We sponsor various community initiatives, events, and local organizations, contributing to sports, culture, and environmental projects. Through these partnerships, we aim to encourage active community participation and foster a sense of shared growth and responsibility.