As part of its commitment to sustainability, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives has emphasized its ongoing water conservation efforts on World Water Day. With the Maldives' fragile ecosystem in mind, the group is dedicated to sourcing, conserving, and reusing water sustainably to protect the islands' natural beauty for future generations.
Freshwater sourcing in the Maldives remains a challenge due to its geographical limitations. Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, which operates multiple resorts on these islands, depends on seawater desalination as the primary method for providing fresh, clean water for daily operations. Utilizing a reverse osmosis (RO) desalination process, seawater is passed through a semi-permeable membrane to remove salt and impurities, leaving behind fresh water. A single RO plant can produce up to 1-2 million liters of freshwater daily, depending on the plant's size. Larger resorts may need several plants to meet water demands, ensuring adequate supply for everything from guest accommodations to kitchen operations and landscaping.
However, desalination, while reliable, poses environmental and energy challenges, including the energy-intensive nature of the process and the management of the highly concentrated saltwater byproduct (brine). To address these concerns, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts has invested in energy-efficient technologies, including high-efficiency pumps and advanced filtration systems, alongside regular plant maintenance to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.
Beyond sourcing, the group has implemented a variety of innovative water conservation initiatives across its resorts. Leak inspections are routinely conducted in guest villas, staff areas, and common facilities to prevent unnecessary water wastage. Additionally, water-saving measures like flow restrictors and water-efficient showerheads have been installed in guest rooms, reducing overall consumption without compromising guest comfort. In public spaces and kitchens, sensor-operated taps ensure water is used only when needed.
At Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives and Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, the resorts have taken water conservation further by recycling 100% of treated wastewater. This water is repurposed for landscaping and organic farming, significantly reducing reliance on desalinated water. Greywater from guest rooms, staff quarters, and kitchens is also redirected to nourish the island's green spaces.
Sustainability at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is a collaborative effort, and the group works to raise awareness through staff training programs that promote water-efficient housekeeping, kitchen, and maintenance practices. Batch washing techniques in laundry and kitchen operations maximize water usage, eliminating waste. Guests are also encouraged to be mindful of their water consumption, with gentle reminders in rooms and towels to reduce excess washing.
Looking ahead, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives has outlined an ambitious roadmap for future sustainability. The group is exploring enhanced rainwater harvesting techniques, expanding awareness campaigns, and ensuring optimal sewage treatment plant (STP) performance. By refining processes and integrating new technologies, the aim is to further minimize environmental impact while maintaining an exceptional guest experience.
On World Water Day, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives reaffirms its commitment to preserving the Maldives' most precious resource—water—through sustainable practices that harmonize with nature and support the region’s long-term environmental health.