Siyam World Opens Maldives’ First Large-Scale Plastic Upcycling Center

News

In a groundbreaking development for environmental sustainability and responsible tourism, Siyam World Maldives has officially launched the country’s first large-scale Plastic Upcycling Center, in collaboration with local environmental NGO CLEAN Maldives. This pioneering facility marks a significant step forward in the Maldives’ journey toward a circular economy, while redefining eco-conscious resort operations.

The center is the first of its kind to operate at this scale within a resort in the Maldives. It processes hard plastic waste—including used oil containers, cleaning drums, and shampoo bottles—into functional and visually appealing products such as sunbeds, outdoor furniture, and plant pots. Unlike earlier small-scale initiatives scattered across the country, this project integrates both large-volume processing and community involvement, setting a new national benchmark.

Located on the island resort of Siyam World, the facility also collects plastic waste from the neighboring inhabited island of Kudafari. This integrated waste management model enhances the project's community impact and aligns with broader goals of regional environmental stewardship.

In a value-sharing initiative, 60% of the upcycled products are retained at the resort for use across guest and staff facilities, while the remaining 40% are distributed by CLEAN Maldives. These products will be donated to public spaces in local islands—such as community parks, schools, beaches, and mosques—enhancing social infrastructure while promoting sustainability.

Currently, the facility recycles approximately 800 kilograms of hard plastics per month, amounting to over 10,000 kilograms annually. It has also created three new employment opportunities, further contributing to local economic development. Siyam World plans to introduce guided educational tours for both guests and school groups, turning the center into a platform for learning about sustainable waste practices.

The upcycling center was officially inaugurated at a special ceremony attended by Mr. Abdulla Thamheed, Vice President of Sun Siyam Resorts, and Ms. Hafsath Aleem, President and Founder of CLEAN Maldives. The initiative is a key component of the “Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia (PLEASE)” project, funded by the World Bank and implemented by the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) with support from the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).

The launch was met with strong support from officials representing UNOPS, the World Bank, local councils, and resort staff—highlighting the potential of public-private partnerships to tackle complex environmental challenges in vulnerable island ecosystems.

Industry insiders are already taking notice. Several other resorts have expressed interest in replicating the model or exploring similar partnerships with local NGOs. This signals a growing trend in the Maldives toward more responsible, community-engaged tourism practices.

The project contributes directly to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

1. SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
2. SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
3. SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

Though the initiative operates separately from the group’s overarching Sun Siyam Cares sustainability platform, it closely mirrors the company’s values: investing in impactful solutions, uplifting local communities, and applying innovation for environmental benefit.

As Siyam World and CLEAN Maldives look ahead, the upcycling center stands as a beacon of what’s possible through creative collaboration and environmental commitment. More than a recycling hub, it is a symbol of hope—proving that with the right partnerships, waste can become opportunity, and sustainability can be woven into the very fabric of luxury hospitality.