Soneva Jani Achieves Maldives' First OECM Status for Conservation

Announced on August 14, 2026, Soneva Jani, located on Medhufaru island in the Maldives, has received national recognition for its ecological preservation efforts. The Maldives’ Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has formally designated the property an Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measure (OECM), a first for any resort in the archipelago.

This significant status acknowledges Soneva Jani's long-term commitment to safeguarding vital reef, beach, and mangrove ecosystems within a 0.41 square kilometer area of the island. Unlike traditional protected areas, OECMs identify sites outside these zones that are effectively managed for biodiversity conservation over time. This includes habitats for endangered Hawksbill and Green turtles, as well as various other threatened marine, avian, and botanical species.

The designation follows a year-long program of extensive ecological surveys, monitoring, and documentation, spearheaded by Soneva Conservation & Sustainability Maldives, with support from the Waitt Foundation. Mangrove and wetland areas within the OECM contribute significantly beyond biodiversity, offering critical shoreline protection, carbon sequestration, and habitat connectivity, underscoring their role in both local ecological health and broader climate resilience.

Our take: The OECM designation for Soneva Jani is a pivotal moment for luxury travel. It moves beyond performative greenwashing to recognize tangible, sustained conservation outcomes. As guests increasingly demand purpose-driven experiences, such independent verification of environmental impact will become a non-negotiable standard. This isn't just about preserving nature; it's about defining the future of responsible luxury.