SPAIN: In celebration of World Oceans Day on June 8th, Meliá Hotels & Resorts — the signature brand of Meliá Hotels International – has created “MELIÁ FOR THE OCEANS”, a plastic removal programme.
In partnership with Gravity Wave, a social enterprise dedicated to cleaning and regenerating the seas, the initiative aims to remove more than 20,000 kg (just over 20 tonnes) of plastic waste from the Mediterranean’s waters and ports throughout 2025.
The project is a key part of the brand’s sustainability strategy, grounded in circular economy principles, responsible design, and environmental awareness.
The partnership, which began on the coast of Ibiza with the launch of the new Meliá Ibiza, saw more than 3,000 kg (around 3.3 tonnes) of plastic removed from the Mediterranean in 2024.
The recovered waste was transformed into functional and sustainable items for the hotel, such as furniture, signage, and giveaways for guests.
Inspired by the success of the initial project, the initiative will expand this year to include more than 20 hotels across key locations in Spain and Europe, such as Mallorca, Sitges, Cádiz, Tenerife, Albania, Madrid, and Barcelona.
This year, the target is to collect up to 20 tonnes of plastic and waste. These materials will be given a second life, turned into meaningful items for the hotels—such as furniture, eco-friendly signage, 3D logos, sustainable gifts, and artwork.
María Romero, marketing director of premium brands at Meliá said: “Through initiatives like MELIÁ FOR THE OCEANS, we take care of every part of the environment and turn waste into transformative experiences, aligned with a new way of traveling: more conscious, more human, and more connected to the wellbeing of the planet.”
Gravity Wave is a social impact company founded in 2020 by siblings Amaia and Julen Rodríguez, with the mission to free the oceans from plastic and transform marine waste into valuable resources.
Following a circular economy model, the Spanish organisation collaborates with fishermen, ports, and businesses to remove plastic waste from the Mediterranean and repurpose it into sustainable products.
Álvaro García Artiñano, head of partnerships at Gravity Wave said: “We’re truly grateful to have a partner like Meliá Hotels & Resorts, whose vision and environmental responsibility allow us to keep moving forward toward a cleaner, healthier Mediterranean.
“This project is far more than a one-off sustainability action; it’s a clear, long-term example of circular economy in action. We’re confident it will inspire not only the tourism industry but many other sectors as well. Partnering with one of Spain’s most recognised brands gives us hope and proves that protecting our oceans is increasingly possible when we join forces.”
Last week we reported on Novotel and WWF celebrating one year into their partnership for ocean conservation.
Image: Melia