Sustaining a Lasting Connection with “Coconut Island”

The name Samui is synonymous with swaying coconut palms and mesmerising seascapes with white sandy beaches. However, beyond these stunning beaches the interior of the island has traditionally been a coconut plantation-based economy, that for more than a hundred years was the mainstay of the local population.

In recent years, as the economy has transitioned quickly towards tourism, these extensive coconut farms have been largely neglected. While fresh coconut juice stalls are plentiful all across the island, it is finding a secondary means of income for these small plantations that has been a challenge for a government that is keen to strike a balance between sustainable tourism and subsistence farming. Cottage industry crafts such as coconut shell carving, woven thatches, and the extraction of virgin coconut oil are some of the ways these coconut growers can generate further income.

“As a large stakeholder in this delicate balance, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui has taken a lead in using locally sourced, coconut-based products and also in managing the substantial waste that is a byproduct of the industry,” says Hannes Schneider, Resort Manager. Large quantities of fresh coconut shell waste are dumped and pile up in mounds all over the island. Slow to decompose and unsightly, this accruing coconut waste has been a big challenge for the tourism industry that thrives on its pristine and sustainable image.

Sustainable Practices

“Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is a long term resident and collaborator here on the island and we remain committed to our local partnerships and sustainability initiatives,” explains Jasjit Singh Assi, General Manager of the Resort. His leadership has been the driving force in finding solutions to the problem of coconut shell waste. With the procurement of an industrial sized wood-chipping machine, the Resort is now able to convert 100% of its coconut waste into compostable material that is recycled into the soil.

And it is not just young coconut shells, but dry branches, leaves and all other natural waste that is now being churned into high-quality compost, which in turn feeds the lush tropical landscape that the Resort is known for. Combined with food waste the Resort generates about 600-700 kilograms of compost daily that is highly nutritious life feeding force that recharges our little eco-system. The beautiful flowers, fruit trees, birds and insects are ultimately connected to the health of the soil and that is what we are investing in.

“The essence of being a Four Seasons is that we go beyond the luxury experience, explains Assi. "We take pride in foreseeing sustainability challenges and tackling them through community-centric solutions. The Resort has even extended itself with an outreach program that encourages neighbouring coconut farms to bring their waste to us for composting, which we then return to them at zero cost for use back on their farms,” explains Thada Whasagool, Chief Gardener. “And for those further afield, the Resort maintains a convenient drop-off point at Nathon Market, where coconut farmers can deposit their young-coconut waste.”

Showcasing Our Craftspeople

As pioneers of the initiative for home-grown and locally sourced material on the island, the Resort features a variety of high-quality products for daily use. Premium, virgin coconut oil for The Secret Garden Spa is sourced from a local producer in Chaweng, along with a wonderfully effective coconut husk scrub. “A carved coconut shell is placed beside every bed as a receptacle for a jasmine garland that is used to perfume the room naturally, enhancing guests’ sleep experience with this delicate aroma,” shares Schneider.

“We are proud to showcase the outstanding variety and skill of the local artisans,” beams Assi. “You will find little embellishments made from coconut shell all over our Resort – such as at the Kids For All Seasons program, where we have a coconut shell painting activity for the kids. Four Seasons Koh Samui is not merely a Resort, we are a beacon of sustainability, championing the island’s legacy through future-forward practices, while also supporting the local economy – living by our mantra #FSForGood!”