Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives observed Global Recycling Day with a team-led initiative that transformed everyday waste into artistic creations.
Under the theme “Don’t Think Waste – Think Opportunity”, staff from across all departments took part in a Sculpture Competition designed to reimagine discarded materials and explore sustainable reuse. The initiative encouraged collaboration and raised awareness of environmental issues through creative expression.
The winning entry, Waste to Wonder, was created by the Front Office team using bottle tops and recycled glass to form a framed mosaic, held together with discarded wire. The Recreation team secured second place with Varah Majaa, a playful installation using broken fins, old fishing nets, and aluminium cans to highlight marine pollution. Third place was awarded to Kandooma Spa for Tanya, a piece crafted from magazines, egg trays, and other paper waste, inspired by sea turtle conservation and female leadership in environmental protection.
Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing & Sustainability, noted that the initiative highlighted the creativity and problem-solving skills present throughout the resort. “Our teams came together to transform discarded materials into meaningful pieces,” she said. “It demonstrated that sustainability is part of our culture, not just a campaign.”
The competition was led by the resort’s General Manager, Mark Eletr, Sustainability Officer Krisel Magallon, and the Sustainability ‘EcoAction’ Team, with judging panels including resort guests to provide diverse perspectives. In addition, a Recycling Workshop was held to educate staff on proper waste segregation, recyclable materials, and practical recycling solutions applicable at the resort.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production, as well as IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Journey to Tomorrow programme, which promotes sustainability and positive environmental impact.
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives continues to integrate sustainable practices into its operations, including reef conservation, waste management, community engagement, and guest education. More information on the resort’s sustainability programmes can be found in the Kandooma Green Book.
Situated in the South Malé Atoll, 45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the resort offers a range of villas, multiple dining options, a kids’ club, diving and surfing activities, and the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala.
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