Sustainability at Nala Veli Maldives

Everyday responsibility, shaped by island life.

At Nala Veli Maldives, sustainability is part of daily operations rather than a separate initiative. As a locally owned hospitality group on Ukulhas Island, responsibility to the environment and community is built into how we operate — from waste management and energy use to local employment and guest awareness.

Our approach focuses on practical action, transparency, and long-term care for the island we call home.

Community & Island Partnership

Nala Veli is actively involved in community-led environmental and social initiatives on Ukulhas Island. Our team participates in regular beach and island clean-ups through Saafu Ukulhas, contributing both staff time and logistical support.

Beyond environmental action, we support island-level events and education initiatives, including:

• Local sports and youth programmes

• School prize days and student recognition

• Cultural and community activities coordinated with the Ukulhas Island Council

These efforts reflect our role as a long-term participant in island life, not a temporary operator.

Waste Management & Daily Operations

Ukulhas Island operates a regulated waste management system, and Nala Veli maintains a dedicated waste separation area to support this process responsibly.

Operational practices include:

• Separate collection for food waste, plastics, and recyclables

• Enclosed waste storage to maintain hygiene and minimise odour

• Daily waste collection in coordination with the Ukulhas Island Council

These measures support the island’s broader environmental standards and reduce pressure on landfill systems.

Laundry & Linen Care

To reduce water and energy consumption, Nala Veli operates an in-house laundry using locally approved eco-chemicals and regulated equipment.

Key practices include:

• Linen changes every other day unless requested or required

• Guest briefing at check-in to encourage mindful water use

• Monitored detergent use to avoid excess discharge

Guests are also provided with sun-drying areas to naturally dry swimwear and light clothing, reducing reliance on electric dryers.

Dining & Single-Use Reduction

At Nala Bistro, unnecessary single-use items have been reduced wherever practical.

Current practices include:

• Refillable glass water bottles with in-house purification

• Paper straws only

• Low-impact takeaway materials and napkins where available

These measures aim to balance guest comfort with reduced environmental impact.

Supporting Local Employment

Nala Veli employs a fully local team and is committed to fair, inclusive, and supportive working conditions.

This includes:

• Equal opportunity hiring

• Direct access to management

• Flexible work practices where possible

• Recognition of staff contributions to sustainable operations

Local employment strengthens island livelihoods and preserves local knowledge within hospitality roles.

Water & Energy Use

Water at the property is supplied through Ukulhas Island’s hybrid system, combining rainwater collection and desalination. Our in-house bottling system reduces reliance on packaged water.

Energy-conscious practices include:

• Monitoring of electricity consumption

• Use of inverter-type air conditioning and refrigerators

• Energy-efficient appliances throughout the property

• Switching off non-essential common-area lighting after 11:00 PM

These measures reduce energy use without compromising guest comfort or safety.

A Practical Commitment

Sustainability at Nala Veli Maldives is not presented as perfection, but as responsibility. Our focus remains on steady improvement, honest communication, and care for the island that sustains both our community and our guests.