5 Ways Resorts Can Support a Sustainable Blue Economy

A sustainable blue economy is much more than just a buzzword —it is a sustainable approach to ocean-based economic activities that benefit both people and the environment. Touristic activities within resorts are an important aspect of this equation. For coastal resorts, integrating sustainable blue economy principles into their operations is an ethical choice and a strategic one, ensuring long-term effects on society's perception, affecting brand reputation, as well as environmental and economic resilience.

Here are five key ways resorts can contribute to a thriving, sustainable blue economy:

1. Implement Sustainable Seafood Practices

Many resorts serve seafood as the main dish, but unsustainable fishing practices contribute to overfishing and marine degradation. Resorts can imagine their menus forward and take steps to source seafood responsibly by:

Working with local fishers who use responsible, small-scale fishing methods
Educating guests on the importance of choosing sustainable seafood options, creating
Exploring traditional food receipts that support the protection of local gastronomy heritage

A great example is Six Senses Resorts, which prioritizes sustainable seafood and transparent sourcing policies in their dining experiences.

2. Adopt zero waste practices

Pollution from various sources is one of the most pressing threats to marine ecosystems. Resorts can innovate and make a significant impact by:

Eliminating the use of single-use plastics in its structures, such as straws, water bottles, and toiletry packaging.
Installing water refill stations to encourage guests to use reusable bottles.
Partnering with local organizations for beach cleanups and community awareness programs.

The Soneva Fushi Resort in the Maldives leads by example, having eliminated all single-use plastics and invested in an on-site recycling plant.

3. Support Ocean Literacy initiatives

Resorts have a unique opportunity to educate guests and staff on ocean conservation while actively contributing to marine protection. Strategies include:

Organizing conscious and guided experiences such as diving or snorkelling tours that highlight the importance of marine biodiversity
Partnering with local organizations to fund ecosystem restoration projects (mangroves, coral reefs, etc)
Hosting educational workshops and activities on ocean sustainability that connect guests and local communities

Four Seasons Resort Maldives has taken this approach by running a coral propagation program that allows guests to participate in reef restoration efforts.

4. Invest in Renewable Energy and Water Conservation

Tourism is a significant consumer of energy and water, particularly in island destinations. Resorts can reduce their environmental impact by:

Switching to solar, wind, or tidal energy to cut carbon emissions
Implementing water-efficient technologies, such as desalination plants and wastewater recycling
Designing buildings with natural cooling systems and sustainable materials.

The Brando Resort in French Polynesia operates on 100 percent renewable energy, using solar power and coconut biofuel, along with an innovative seawater air-conditioning system to reduce energy consumption.

5. Empower Coastal Communities

A successful sustainable blue economy must support not just marine ecosystems but also the people who depend on them. Resorts can strengthen local economies by:

Hiring and training local staff in eco-tourism, conservation, and hospitality, but also supporting locals to reach leadership positions in the hotel business
Supporting local artisans and businesses by supporting their heritage practices and showcasing handmade crafts and locally sourced products
Collaborating with fishers, local farmers, and marine guides to create sustainable tourism experiences.

Chumbe Island Coral Park in Zanzibar is a leading example of this approach, employing locals as conservation rangers, tour guides, and hospitality staff, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism stay within the community.

A future where tourism supports ocean protection

Hotels and resorts have the potential to boost innovation in a sustainable blue economy, transforming tourism into a force for environmental stewardship and sustainable economic growth.

Would your like your resort to take the next step in supporting a sustainable blue economy? Let’s explore how sustainability can enhance both your operations and guest experience! Human-generated content.