Sustainable development has become a guiding principle for governments, businesses, NGOs and the public sector. In recent years there has also been a growing interest in what is now termed 'eco-tourism', as the hospitality industry responds to increased consumer awareness of environmental issues. Travellers and guests now expect hotels and resorts to have policies and practices that: promote sustainable waste management; reduce energy use; encourage sustainable purchasing; and minimise carbon emissions.
Tourism is one of the largest and fastest growing industries and has significant social and environmental impacts, not only locally but globally. In order to develop in a sustainable way resorts should not consume renewable resources, such as forests (and timber), soil, water and fish stocks faster than they are replenished. Also, non-renewable resources (fossil fuels, minerals and ores) should not be exploited before renewable substitutes can be found. Similarly, pollutants, in the form of solid, liquid and gaseous emissions and greenhouse gasses in particular should not be released faster than they can be recycled within the ecosystem. Sustainable development is based on the premise that current needs are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
Sustainability means doing things better - not doing without. Since the opening of Six Senses' flagship resort in 1995, Soneva Fushi has made sustainability a priority, without compromising the experience and expectations of guests. Indeed, the resort has demonstrated that luxury and minimal environmental impact are compatible. The company's core purpose "We create innovative, enlightening SLOW LIFE* " indicate how much emphasis is placed on providing the ultimate holiday experience, while at the same time being socially and environmentally responsible.
*SUSTAINABLE – LOCAL – ORGANIC – WELLNESS LEARNING – INSPIRING – FUN – EXPERIENCES
This commitment has been recognised: Soneva Fushi has received the President of Maldives' Green Resort Award three times (in 2000, 2005 and 2007), Virtuoso’s Most Environmentally Friendly Resort Award in 2007 and PATA’s Gold Award in 2007, amongst others.
