Ventive Hospitality Ltd has launched a marine restoration initiative at Anantara Dhigu Maldives, deploying advanced 3D-printed reef structures aimed at supporting coral regeneration and enhancing marine biodiversity.
The project has been developed in collaboration with Swiss marine restoration organisation Rrreefs, the resort’s marine biology team and Aquafanatics, marking one of the Maldives’ early deployments of Artificial Clay Reef (ACR) technology for ecosystem restoration.
Under the initiative, 13 modular reef structures covering nearly 150 square metres of seabed have been installed adjacent to the resort’s SFS Coral Nursery. Constructed using 3D-printed terracotta modules designed to replicate natural reef formations, the structures are intended to create stable underwater habitats that encourage natural coral recruitment and marine life regeneration.
The project adopts a science-led passive restoration model, allowing ecosystems to recover naturally while minimising intervention and reducing stress on surrounding coral communities. The approach comes amid growing concerns over coral bleaching, climate change and environmental degradation affecting reef ecosystems globally.
Ventive Hospitality said the initiative aligns with its broader sustainability strategy and reflects a commitment to long-term environmental stewardship across its hospitality portfolio.
Ranjit Batra, Chief Executive Officer of Ventive Hospitality Ltd, said marine ecosystem protection remains critical for the future of tourism in island destinations such as the Maldives, where a significant proportion of land lies only a short distance above sea level.
He noted that the initiative builds upon the company’s existing reef conservation efforts under the Holistic Approach to Reef Protection (HARP) programme across its three Anantara properties in the Maldives. Over the past eight years, the programme has integrated more than 14,455 coral fragments as part of ongoing reef protection activities.
The latest restoration project also involved more than 35 volunteers, marine specialists and resort team members who participated in reef deployment, underwater construction and scientific monitoring activities.
Going forward, the reef systems will be monitored through biodiversity assessments, coral recruitment studies and 3D photogrammetry mapping to evaluate habitat development and long-term ecological outcomes.
Backed by Panchshil Realty and Blackstone, Ventive Hospitality manages a portfolio of hospitality assets that includes global brands such as Soho House, Conrad Maldives and The Ritz-Carlton Pune.
The company said the initiative reflects the growing role of sustainability and conservation in the hospitality sector as operators increasingly seek to balance tourism development with environmental responsibility.
