Siyam World Maldives has introduced the nation’s first full-scale Plastic Upcycling Center at a resort, marking a significant milestone in sustainable hospitality within the Maldives. Developed in partnership with local environmental NGO CLEAN Maldives, this pioneering initiative transforms discarded plastic items—including oil containers, cleaning product drums, and shampoo bottles—into useful products such as sunbeds, planters, and outdoor seating. While smaller recycling efforts have existed previously in Malé and other locations, this facility represents a national first for its scale, circular approach, and integration with the surrounding community on a resort island.
The upcycling center not only processes plastic waste generated by Siyam World Maldives but also accepts plastic from the nearby inhabited island of Kudafari, strengthening the resort’s commitment to supporting local communities. Under a shared value model, 60% of the upcycled products remain on the resort grounds, while the remaining 40% are distributed by CLEAN Maldives, with both partners pledging to donate select items for public use in spaces such as island parks, beaches, and communal areas. Currently, the facility recycles around 800 kilograms of hard plastics each month, contributing over 10,000 kilograms annually to the circular economy. The center has also created three new jobs, reinforcing Siyam World’s positive impact on the local workforce.
Beyond waste management, the facility plays an important educational role. Siyam World Maldives plans to introduce guided tours for resort guests and local school groups to highlight the significance of plastic reduction, recycling, and upcycling, showcasing real-world sustainable solutions in action. The center’s official inauguration was attended by Mr. Abdulla Thamheed, Vice President of Sun Siyam Resorts, and Ms. Hafsath Aleem, President and Founder of CLEAN Maldives. This project was developed as part of the Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia (PLEASE) initiative, funded by the World Bank and implemented by SACEP with support from UNOPS.
The launch event drew participation from representatives of UNOPS, the World Bank, local councils, and resort staff, demonstrating the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in addressing environmental issues in island nations. The initiative has already sparked interest from other resorts, with several expressing intentions to replicate this model or create similar collaborations with local NGOs. This reflects a broader industry shift toward sustainable, community-driven tourism in the Maldives.
Siyam World Maldives’ Plastic Upcycling Center supports key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure). Although the center operates independently of Sun Siyam Resorts’ wider sustainability program, Sun Siyam Cares, it embodies the same core principles of investing in lasting solutions, empowering communities, and driving practical innovation that yields measurable change.
Looking ahead, the upcycling facility at Siyam World stands as a testament to what can be achieved when creativity, collaboration, and environmental commitment converge. It proves that waste can be the beginning of a positive transformation rather than an endpoint. Through educational outreach and guest engagement, Siyam World aims to raise awareness and inspire broader action, offering a tangible example of the circular economy in practice.
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