Updated: May 2026
Sustainability & Community Impact
At Derawan Atoll Atlas, we believe that luxury and sustainability are not mutually exclusive; they are intrinsically linked. The pristine nature of the Derawan Islands is our most precious asset, and our license to operate is a privilege that comes with a profound responsibility to protect it. Our sustainability policy is not a marketing initiative; it is a core operational pillar that influences every decision we make, from supply chain management to guest experiences. This commitment is a key part of our evaluation methodology for all partners. (See Coral Triangle Initiative for context.)
Our Three Pillars of Commitment
1. Environmental Stewardship & Marine Conservation
We are dedicated to leaving the Derawan ecosystem healthier than we found it through active conservation and responsible practices.
- Carbon Responsibility: We calculate the carbon footprint of every journey, including domestic flights and boat travel. We then invest in certified carbon offset projects, such as the Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve Project in Central Kalimantan, to render each trip carbon-neutral.
- Zero Single-Use Plastics: All our operations are strictly free of single-use plastics. We provide guests with reusable water bottles and utilize filtered water systems on all our vessels and partner properties. All supplies are procured with minimal and non-plastic packaging.
- Reef-Safe Practices: We provide all guests with complimentary, high-quality reef-safe sunscreen. Our guides, led by our on-staff marine biologist, enforce strict no-touch and no-harassment policies for all marine life encounters, adhering to international best practices for interacting with whale sharks, turtles, and manta rays.
- Direct Conservation Funding: We commit 2% of our net profit annually to our local conservation partners, primarily Yayasan Penyu Indonesia, to fund sea turtle hatchery protection and anti-poaching patrols on Sangalaki Island.
2. Community Empowerment & Economic Benefit
We ensure that our presence provides tangible, sustainable economic benefits to the local communities of the Berau Regency.
- Local Employment Priority: We are proud to state that over 85% of our operational staff—including boat crews, local guides, and support personnel—are hired from the surrounding villages of Derawan, Maratua, and Tanjung Batu. We invest in their training to meet international service and safety standards.
- Local Sourcing: We maintain a ‘Berau First’ procurement policy. Whenever possible, we source our fresh produce, seafood, and supplies from local markets and fishermen, paying fair market prices to ensure the economic benefits of tourism are distributed throughout the community.
- Support for Traditional Crafts: We facilitate respectful and non-transactional opportunities for our guests to meet local artisans. We also provide grants to community groups working to preserve traditional Bajau weaving and carving techniques, helping to create sustainable livelihoods that are not solely dependent on tourism.
3. Cultural Preservation & Guest Education
We believe that a key part of a luxury experience is a deeper understanding and appreciation of the destination. We aim to be a bridge between our guests and the rich local culture.
- Authentic, Respectful Interactions: We do not support staged or ‘human zoo’ style cultural shows. Instead, we facilitate genuine interactions, such as visiting a local village with a guide who can explain the customs and traditions of the Bajau people, ensuring the experience is respectful for all parties.
- Educational Briefings: Every itinerary includes briefings from our experts on the ecological significance of the Coral Triangle, the challenges of marine conservation, and the local cultural context. Our goal is to create ambassadors for the Derawan Islands who understand both its beauty and its fragility.
- Community Project Visits: Upon request, we can arrange for guests to visit the community projects we support, such as a local school or a mangrove reforestation site, offering a transparent look at how their journey contributes to a positive impact.
Continue exploring Derawan Atoll Atlas:
Our Derawan Atoll Atlas Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance
Safeguarding the Derawan’s underwater marvels
The gentle lapping of waves against a pristine shore, the silent ballet of manta rays gliding through crystal-clear waters – these are the indelible moments that define the Derawan Islands, a precious jewel in the Coral Triangle. Our commitment extends far beyond merely offsetting our operational footprint; we are actively engaged in hands-on initiatives to protect and restore the vibrant marine ecosystems that make this destination so extraordinary. The waters surrounding Derawan are a biodiversity hotspot, home to an astonishing array of life, including more than 460 species of coral – a staggering diversity that supports thousands of fish species, critical for the health of the entire ecosystem.
Our marine conservation efforts are multi-faceted, focusing keenly on the iconic species that draw travelers from across the globe. We operate dedicated coral nurseries, where fragments are carefully cultivated and then replanted onto damaged reef areas, fostering regeneration and resilience. This painstaking process helps to rebuild the underwater architecture that provides shelter and food for countless creatures. Furthermore, we are staunch advocates for the protection of Derawan’s renowned sea turtle populations, including the endangered green and hawksbill turtles. Through collaborations with local rangers and marine biologists, we monitor nesting sites, protect hatchlings, and educate both our guests and the community about responsible interaction, ensuring these ancient mariners continue their vital lifecycle.
Beyond these targeted programs, comprehensive waste management remains a cornerstone of our environmental stewardship. We have implemented a rigorous system to minimize single-use plastics and ensure that all waste generated, both by our operations and our guests, is either recycled, composted, or disposed of responsibly. This includes investing in reverse osmosis systems for fresh water, providing reusable amenities, and conducting regular beach and underwater clean-ups. By reducing our ecological footprint on land, we directly contribute to the pristine quality of the marine environment, allowing the Derawan Atoll to flourish for generations to come.
Empowering local communities through sustainable tourism
True luxury travel, we believe, is not just about unparalleled experiences; it is also about fostering a positive, lasting impact on the places we visit and the people who call them home. Our presence in the Derawan Islands is intrinsically linked to the well-being and prosperity of the local communities. We are deeply committed to creating tangible economic opportunities and empowering residents, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared widely and equitably. This commitment manifests in our employment practices, where over 80% of our team members are recruited directly from the surrounding Derawan and East Kalimantan communities.
These roles span the entire spectrum of our operations, from skilled boat captains and dive masters to talented culinary staff and hospitality professionals. We invest significantly in training and professional development programs, equipping individuals with valuable skills that not only enhance their careers within Derawan Atoll Atlas but also contribute to the broader local economy. Beyond direct employment, we prioritize local procurement for goods and services whenever possible. This means sourcing fresh produce from nearby farms, collaborating with local artisans for bespoke guest amenities, and engaging local businesses for transport and excursions. This approach injects capital directly into the community, supporting small enterprises and fostering a vibrant local economy.
Moreover, our dedication extends to the preservation and celebration of local culture. We encourage guests to engage respectfully with the indigenous traditions and way of life, offering authentic experiences that highlight the rich heritage of the region. Through partnerships with local schools and cultural organizations, we also support educational initiatives and environmental awareness programs for children, nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. Our objective is to ensure that tourism acts as a catalyst for positive change, enriching lives and preserving the unique cultural fabric of the Derawan Islands for future generations of residents and visitors alike. More information on sustainable tourism initiatives in Indonesia can be found on Indonesia.travel.
Cultivating conscious travel experiences
At Derawan Atoll Atlas, we believe that the most profound travel experiences are those that connect guests not only with breathtaking beauty but also with a deeper sense of purpose and responsibility. Our approach to luxury tourism is designed to cultivate conscious travelers, providing opportunities for meaningful engagement with the environment and local culture while minimizing ecological impact. From the moment guests begin planning their journey, they receive comprehensive information on responsible travel practices specific to the Derawan Islands, setting the stage for an immersive and respectful visit.
Upon arrival, detailed briefings cover everything from appropriate wildlife interaction protocols – such as maintaining a safe and respectful distance from sea turtles and manta rays – to guidelines on waste reduction and energy conservation within their accommodations. Our expert guides lead guests on low-impact activities, including guided snorkeling and diving expeditions with certified operators, kayaking through mangrove forests, and exploring secluded coves. These experiences are not merely leisure activities; they are opportunities for
