The Green Pearls’ ambassadors Nicole (44) and Michael (48) visited our green pearl Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu in the Maldives. The business administration employee and the CEO of a media company usually prefer short trips and describe themselves as passionate “outdoorsy“ people who enjoy good wine & food. They were able to pursue their passions and much more at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu. In the following interview the couple explains their motivation to travel environmental-friendly and the green initiatives the resort is invested in.

What is your understanding of „sustainable travel“?

Sustainability and traveling almost stand in complete contrast to each other, at least in respect to long-distance traveling. When planning vacations we try to find accommodations or resorts that treat the local environment, people, animals, and nature with care and respect. For us “sustainable“ means that our chosen accommodation draws regional supplies, employs local staff and/or utilize regional constructional practices.

What role does sustainability play for your travel decisions?

By now it is a fundamental decision criterion.

In what way has your travel behavior changed in recent years and why?

For about ten years we have been taking the factor of sustainability into consideration when planning a vacation. The great thing about green accommodations is, naturally, that eco-friendly hosts are committed to the environment and the regional nature, and generally do everything they can to maintain it. The question of „why“ is easy to answer: If everyone lives a little more environmental-friendly, future generations will profit from it.

Do you see any changes in regard to the travel behavior of your family, friends, and acquaintances?

A few are starting to go along with it.

In your opinion, can the Maldives be a sustainable destination?

Yes, they can. Apart from the flight, you can spend an eco-friendly and relaxing time on the Maldives. It does depend both on the hosts and the guests, and the amount they are willing to do about it.

What kind of experiences have you had in the Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu in terms of environmental protection?

From our point of view, CPD is exemplary in this respect. They produce their own drinking water, served daily in glass bottles, and the coffee is served in a press jug so that no filter is needed. Moreover, the kitchen is almost invariably regional: Pastries and pasta are freshly prepared on the island and fish is purchased from local fishermen. In the middle of the island is a vegetable and spice garden which is pillaged by the cooks daily. To avoid unnecessary garbage guests are given a bag on arrival, to collect and later take along their own plastic. In the bathrooms you will find soaps and shampoo in refillable ceramic, and it is obligatory that towels and bed linen are only changed upon request. When talking about the environmental protection at the Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu you cannot forget to mention the turtle resting station where injured turtles are feed up.

Often, environmental awareness during vacation is automatically linked to foregoing something. What do you think?

We don’t think so – especially during your holiday you have more time to concentrate on the essentials.