This September, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru celebrates 30 years of barefoot eco-luxury, marking three decades as a pioneer of sustainable tourism in the Maldives. To honour this milestone, the resort is spearheading Saafu Kuramaa National Community Clean-Up on 20 September 2025, on the occasion of International Coastal Cleanup Day.

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This pioneering initiative will be the largest nationwide coastal clean-up in the Maldives, expected to unite more than 180 islands and an estimated 30,000 participants across the nation for a simultaneous one-hour clean-up from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. 

“As we celebrate 30 years of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Saafu Kuramaa reflects our commitment to embrace the environment that has sustained us and inspired travellers from around the world. It is an invitation for every community to take part in shaping the Maldives’ future, together. This is also a powerful reminder that when we come together, even one hour can create lasting change.” said Elias Pertoft, General Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.

Why It Matters

With more than 99% of Maldivian territory covered by ocean, protecting the marine environment is essential to the nation’s identity, economy, and future. Saafu Kuramaa is not only about removing waste. It is about raising awareness, inspiring stewardship in preserving the oceans for our future.

“At Banyan Tree, environmental stewardship is at the heart of what we do. All Banyan Group properties conduct a minimum of four community cleanups every year, and Saafu Kuramaa represents our most ambitious effort yet. This campaign aims to be the largest community cleanup we’ve ever organized, and we’re calling on individuals of all ages and islands to join us in making a real, lasting impact for our coasts and communities.” added Nick Hardman, Regional Marine Lab Manager, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru & Dhawa Ihuru.

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How to Participate

Participation is open to all communities and organisations across the Maldives, including:

• Local councils and schools
• NGOs and youth associations
• Dive centres and guesthouses
• Resorts and tourism partners

Each island will nominate a local coordinator, select a coastal area—beach, harbour, sandbank, or mangrove and lead their clean-up efforts simultaneously with the nationwide campaign. All groups will be asked to submit their results, including total waste collected, number of volunteers, to form part of a unified national impact outcome.

Celebrating 30 Years of Pioneering Marine Conservation Stewardship

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Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has long been at the forefront of environmental leadership, with initiatives including the first resort-based Marine Lab in the Maldives since 2004, pioneering resilient coral planting and reef monitoring projects, guest engagement and local culture preservation. Saafu Kuramaa reflects the same ethos that has defined the resort’s journey since 1995 - embracing the environment, empowering people.

As part of its 30th anniversary, the resort is not only celebrating its legacy but also inviting communities to join in shaping the future of the Maldives together.

Saafu Kuramaa. One Nation. One Ocean. One Hour.
20 September 2025 | 4:00 – 5:00 PM

For Participation & Coordination Enquiries:
Aminath Sama
[email protected]  | (+960) 7461996

Read more of the resort's sustainability effort.