Six Senses Laamu celebrates second anniversary of environmental learning hub

Six Senses Laamu celebrates the second anniversary of its Sea Hub of Environmental Learning in Laamu (SHELL), underscoring the resort’s ongoing commitment to marine conservation, scientific innovation, and environmental education in the Maldives.

Since its launch in March 2023 on the resort’s sunset beach, the SHELL has grown into a cornerstone of environmental stewardship. Spanning 2,336 square feet (217 square meters), this immersive exhibition and research hub continues to captivate resort guests, hosts, and Maldivian residents alike with its vibrant displays of local marine ecosystems. At its core, the SHELL houses the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI), a pioneering collaboration between Six Senses Laamu’s marine biologists and three esteemed NGOs: Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation, and Olive Ridley Project. The MUI team has nine dedicated marine biologists, strengthening its capacity for groundbreaking research.

Advancing Collaborative Research and Restoration

Over the past two years, the SHELL has solidified its role as a leader in marine science. Building on the success of its coral larval restoration program, the initiative has now nurtured around 770 baby corals across five species, with 8.8 million coral larvae released onto the resort’s house reef since inception. The turtle genetics project, analyzing DNA from deceased hatchlings, has furthered global understanding of Maldivian sea turtle populations, with 18 samples collected to date.

The MUI team’s research portfolio has expanded, with 1,167 turtles added to the Olive Ridley Project’s Laamu Atoll database and 150 manta rays recorded with the Manta Trust. Additionally, a new study is underway to create a comprehensive database of coral species in Laamu, set to be released by the end of 2025.

Deepening Community Engagement and Global Recognition

In its second year, the SHELL welcomed distinguished guests, including Professor Peter Harrison, a pioneer of coral larval restoration, and prominent wildlife videographers like Mark Sharman and Cristian Dimitrius, fostering collaborations with leading academics and conservationists.

Education remains a cornerstone of the SHELL’s mission. In 2024, the “Hello Hallu” program reached 180 students and teachers across Laamu Atoll’s schools, inspiring the next generation to champion their natural heritage.

The SHELL’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, it received recognition as “Best Culture, Travel & Lifestyle Environmental Initiative” in the Country & Townhouse Magazine’s Future Icons Awards, adding to its 2023 “Aspire Sustainability Initiative of the Year” Award and affirming Six Senses Laamu’s leadership in sustainable tourism.

A Vision for the Future

“The SHELL’s second anniversary marks a profound milestone in our journey,” says Lawrence Menz, Six Senses Laamu’s Director of Sustainability and Conservation. “From pioneering research to empowering local communities, we’ve seen tangible change in Laamu Atoll. Hearing students and visitors alike share how the SHELL has inspired them to protect our oceans is the greatest testament to its success.”

General Manager Marteyne van Well adds, “Two years in, the SHELL continues to embody our dedication to preserving the Maldives’ natural wonders. It’s a dynamic platform that not only educates and inspires, but also drives meaningful action for the planet.” Van Well’s recognition in Forbes as one of ‘4 Women Creating Ways to Protect the Ocean’ further highlights the SHELL’s global resonance.

As Six Senses Laamu looks ahead, the SHELL remains a beacon of hope and innovation, poised to shape the future of marine conservation for years to come.