Ocean day & sustainable hotels

Ownia's Blog

Every Drop Counts: Why the Ocean Is Vital to Our Planet

Covering over 70% of Earth’s surface, the ocean isn’t just a vast body of water—it’s our planet’s life-support system. It produces more than half of the oxygen we breathe, absorbs carbon dioxide to fight climate change, and regulates the Earth’s climate and weather patterns. The ocean is home to an astonishing array of biodiversity and is critical to food security, economic development, and the cultural heritage of countless communities around the world.

Yet despite its significance, our oceans are under serious threat—from rising temperatures and coral bleaching to plastic pollution and overfishing. That’s why every year on June 8th, World Ocean Day calls on humanity to recognize the importance of protecting this invaluable natural resource.

This year, Ownia celebrates Ocean Day by shining a light on sustainable travel and the hotels in our collection that are leading by example in ocean conservation. By choosing to stay at these beachfront properties, you’re not just enjoying paradise—you’re helping preserve it.

Travel Sustainably with Ownia: Stay Where the Ocean is Loved and Protected

At Ownia Collection, we partner with hotels that prioritize environmental integrity without compromising on luxury. Here are four of our beachfront properties making a measurable difference for the oceans:

Amilla Maldives Resort: Coral Restoration & Marine Protection

Located in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Amilla is a beacon of hope for marine conservation. In partnership with the Atoll Marine Centre, Amilla is actively restoring coral reefs, monitoring turtle nesting sites, and gathering data on key marine species like manta rays and sharks. Guests can witness coral planting projects, learn from the on-site marine biologist, and even participate in educational programs.

Coral fragments are reattached to metal frames, regenerating damaged reefs.
Collaboration with Parley for the Oceans has eliminated single-use plastics across the resort.
Bathroom amenities are in refillable ceramic containers, and products are made from ocean-bound plastic.

At Amilla, sustainability is more than a value—it’s a lifestyle.

Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia: Clean Oceans Start on Land

Nestled in the lush surroundings of Soufrière, Anse Chastanet blends eco-luxury with a deep commitment to marine preservation. Their proactive initiatives include:

Quarterly reef clean-ups with their dive team and community volunteers.
Two coral nurseries in partnership with the REEF Rescue Network and Perry Institute for Marine Science, supporting reef regeneration with over 1,000 coral fragments planted in the first 3 years.
Sustainable wastewater management through natural reed beds—100% of wastewater is processed without polluting the ocean.

Guests can take PADI reef conservation courses, visit the coral nurseries, and directly contribute to the restoration of Anse Chastanet Reef and Turtle Reef.

VOMO Island, Fiji: Coral Sculptures as Living Art

In partnership with Counting Coral, VOMO Island, Fiji transforms conservation into a multisensory experience. The installation of underwater coral sculptures—designed to function as coral gene banks—bridges the gap between art, science, and ecological action.

These sculptures not only serve as homes for coral growth but also spark awareness and global conversations.
VOMO’s involvement amplifies a call to action that links reef health to the survival of island communities and global biodiversity.
This initiative represents a new era of conservation, where guests can witness the rebirth of marine ecosystems.

It’s more than art—it’s a living, breathing testament to hope and resilience.

Chablé Maroma, Mexico: Protecting Sea Turtles and Coral Reefs

Chablé Maroma integrates conservation into every aspect of its hospitality:

Turtle conservation is hands-on and heartfelt: in 2022, a protected nest hatched 88 sea turtles, which guests helped release under guided, eco-friendly conditions.
Their chefs support sustainable fishing through the Pesca con Futuro initiative, ensuring seafood is harvested without depleting marine stocks.
With NGO Oceanus A.C., they’ve launched a coral reef program and trained staff and guests on coral protection.
Their Green Day Program empowers employees and guests to engage in activities like beach cleanups and environmental education.

This holistic approach makes Chablé Maroma a leader in community-based marine conservation.

What You Can Do to Help Protect Our Oceans

Whether you’re staying at one of Ownia’s sustainable beachfront hotels or looking to take action at home, here are a few simple ways to make a difference:

Never take coral or shells as souvenirs. They belong to the ocean, not our shelves.
Choose reef-safe sunscreens. Many chemicals in traditional sunscreens harm coral reefs.
Volunteer for a beach cleanup or join local conservation initiatives.
Reduce your plastic use—bring your bags, bottles, and containers when you travel.

Support hotels and businesses that prioritize sustainability. Your choices matter.

Celebrate Ocean Day with Purpose

This Ocean Day, Ownia invites you to be a conscious traveler and ocean advocate. The ocean connects us all—and protecting it is not just the job of scientists or governments, but of every traveler who chooses to tread lightly.

Stay with intention. Travel with impact. Celebrate the ocean with Ownia Collection.

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