Soneva Jani: Where Luxury and Sustainability are redefined in harmony with Nature

1. In what way is the “Sustainable Wellbeing Center” certification aligned with Soneva Jani’s philosophy?

At Soneva Jani, our philosophy of Intelligent Luxury is rooted in the belief that true luxury is measured not by excess, but by time, space, and a deep reconnection with nature. The “Sustainable Wellbeing Center” certification reflects this ethos perfectly. It affirms our commitment to wellness that nurtures both people and the planet—where sustainability is not an afterthought, but a guiding principle. From the natural ingredients in our spa products to the renewable energy that powers our spaces, every detail is considered to ensure that well-being is delivered in harmony with the environment.

2. Soneva Jani is set in an extraordinary natural environment. How do you combine luxury, well-being, and environmental preservation in the experiences you offer your guests?

For us, luxury and sustainability are not opposing forces—they enrich each other. At Soneva Jani:

• Our therapies draw upon organic, locally sourced products, often grown in our own permaculture gardens.
• Guests experience transformative journeys rooted in nature and cultural authenticity, in open-air treatment rooms set over turquoise lagoons or shaded by lush jungle.
• We use only natural, biodegradable spa products, and invite visiting practitioners who share our ethos of sustainable wellness.
• Our villas and our spa facilities are crafted from responsibly sourced materials that blend seamlessly into the environment, while offering unrivaled comfort and space.
• Solar power supplies much of our energy, and our “No News, No Shoes” ethos encourages guests to disconnect from distraction and rediscover life’s purest luxuries: connection, stillness, and nature.

3. Which of your sustainable practices are you most proud of, and why?

We are particularly proud of our Waste-to-Wealth initiative, through which we recycle up to 90% of our solid waste. At our Eco Centro, waste is transformed into valuable resources—compost for our organic gardens, building materials, and even art pieces created in partnership with local communities. Equally, our Soneva Namoona programme has become a model for the Maldives, pioneering island waste management systems and promoting community education on sustainability. Together, these efforts embody our belief that sustainability is not a passing trend, but a responsibility that inspires change both within our resorts and across our wider community.

4. This certification comes at a time when the demand for more responsible tourism is growing. What role does your establishment, Soneva Jani, play in the hotel/spa industry?

Soneva Jani sets a benchmark for what responsible luxury can and should be. We demonstrate that transformative guest experiences can go hand in hand with environmental stewardship. By leading in areas such as carbon neutrality, waste innovation, and ethical wellness practices, we inspire both our peers and our guests to embrace a more mindful, regenerative way of travel. In doing so, we hope to shape a hospitality industry where responsibility and luxury are seamlessly intertwined.

5. What advice would you give to other luxury establishments wishing to embark on this journey and pursue Ecocert certification?

Sustainability should not be an add-on; it must be woven into the very fabric of an organization’s purpose. Begin with authenticity and transparency, engage your team at every level, and take a long-term perspective. Ecocert certification is more than a label—it is an invitation to reimagine operations, from procurement and product use to guest engagement and wellness philosophy. Above all, remember that sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive. When approached with care and intention, they elevate one another, creating experiences that are both deeply indulgent and profoundly responsible.