SUSTAINABILITY AT ANTHONY’S KEY RESORT
Protecting Roatan for Future Generations
Healthy Reefs • Thriving Communities • A Brighter Tomorrow
Protecting the Island We Call Home
Our commitment to environmental stewardship, marine conservation, and a sustainable future for Roatan.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
For more than five decades, Anthony’s Key Resort has welcomed guests to experience the natural beauty of Roatan, Honduras. As a family-owned resort established in 1968, we have a connection to the island that goes far beyond hospitality.
Roatan’s coral reefs, marine life, and natural resources are essential to our community, our livelihoods, and the experiences we share with our guests. Protecting them has been an important part of our mission for generations.
Our approach to sustainability combines responsible resort operations with marine conservation, scientific research, environmental education, and partnerships with organizations dedicated to protecting the Bay Islands.
From investing in solar energy and water conservation to establishing the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences and supporting coral restoration, we continue to take practical steps to reduce our environmental impact and preserve the island’s natural heritage.
Sustainability in Action
Our commitment to sustainability is supported by a dedicated Sustainability Department at Anthony’s Key Resort. The department helps coordinate and advance environmental initiatives across the property, working with different areas of the resort to identify opportunities to conserve resources, reduce waste, improve operating practices, and support our broader sustainability goals.
Having a team focused specifically on sustainability helps us move beyond individual projects and take a more coordinated, ongoing approach to environmental responsibility.
Our Sustainability Initiatives
Renewable Energy
Harnessing the Power of the Sun
In the spring of 2020, Anthony’s Key Resort took a significant step toward more sustainable operations by installing a solar energy system, harnessing one of Roatan’s most abundant natural resources: sunshine!
The original grid-tied system had a capacity of approximately 300 kW. In the summer of 2023, we expanded the installation to 532 kW, providing enough solar energy to power the entire resort during the day. The solar panels were installed on the resort’s former tennis courts, which had been unused since the late 1980s. Repurposing this existing paved area allowed us to create a dedicated solar field close to the resort without clearing a large area of vegetation. Today, the solar installation is one of the first things guests see upon arriving at Anthony’s Key Resort, reflecting our commitment to investing in renewable energy.
Our Solar Energy Impact
532 kW
Installed Solar Capacity
3.89+ Million kWh
Solar Energy Generated
5.77+ Million lbs CO₂ Saved
=
297,000+ Gallons
Gasoline Equivalent Saved
Solar monitoring data recorded since March 11, 2020.
How We Power the Resort
During daylight hours, our solar installation supplies electricity to the resort. At night, electricity is provided by the Roatan Electric Company (RECO), which uses a combination of energy sources, including wind, solar, and propane-fueled generation, as described in our project documentation. The resort also maintains on-site diesel generators for backup power. This combination allows us to use renewable solar energy during the day while maintaining a reliable electricity supply for our guests and operations.
Water Conservation
And Responsible Wastewater Management
Freshwater is a valuable resource on an island. At Anthony’s Key Resort, conserving water and managing wastewater responsibly are important parts of our environmental practices.
Wastewater Treatment & Reuse
Our resort uses a wastewater treatment system to collect and treat wastewater from bungalows and other buildings across the property. The system uses an aerobic treatment process supported by bacterial media. Treated water containing nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus is then reused to irrigate the resort’s landscaped areas. This approach helps reduce demand for freshwater while putting treated wastewater to beneficial use.
Linen & Towel Conservation
To reduce water and electricity consumption associated with laundry, bed linens and towels are changed every three days and again at checkout. This practice helps conserve water and energy while maintaining comfortable accommodations for our guests. Together, these initiatives support more responsible management of the island’s freshwater resources.
Reducing Single-Use Plastics & Waste
Plastic pollution is a serious concern for island communities and marine environments. Discarded plastic can enter waterways and eventually reach the ocean, where it threatens marine wildlife and coral reef ecosystems.
Anthony’s Key Resort began eliminating single-use plastics in 2012 as part of its commitment to reducing waste. Our purchasing and sales policy avoids single-use plastic products, including disposable plastic bags, bottles, and straws.
Refill, Reuse, Reduce
We encourage guests to use refillable water bottles and take advantage of drinking-water refill stations located throughout the resort. By providing reusable alternatives, we aim to reduce unnecessary plastic waste and encourage habits that help protect Roatan’s environment. Our waste reduction efforts are part of an ongoing commitment to evaluate the materials we purchase, use, and dispose of throughout resort operations.
Marine Conservation
Protecting Roatan’s Coral Reefs
Roatan lies along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, an extraordinary marine ecosystem that supports diverse coral species, fish, and other marine life. Anthony’s Key Resort is located in Sandy Bay, within the Sandy Bay–West End Special Marine Protection Zone of the Bay Islands National Marine Park. Our location brings both an opportunity and a responsibility: to help protect the marine environment that makes Roatan such a remarkable place to visit. Through marine research, coral restoration, environmental education, and support for conservation organizations, we contribute to efforts to preserve the island’s reefs and surrounding ecosystems.
The Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences
In 1989, the owners of Anthony’s Key Resort established the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences (RIMS) with the primary objective of preserving Roatan’s natural resources through education and research.
Located at the resort, RIMS has developed into a marine teaching and research institution that welcomes students from colleges, universities, and high schools in Honduras and abroad. Its educational programs provide opportunities to study tropical marine ecosystems, coral reefs, and bottlenose dolphins. By connecting scientific research with hands-on learning, RIMS helps foster a deeper understanding of marine environments and the importance of their conservation.
AKR / RIMS Coral Nurseries & Reef Restoration
1,622
Coral Fragments Restored
2020-2026
Coral reefs provide essential habitat for marine life, protect coastlines, and support the communities and tourism industries that depend on healthy marine ecosystems. Through the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences (RIMS), Anthony’s Key Resort contributes to coral reef restoration by recovering naturally broken or fragmented corals and giving them an opportunity to grow in a protected nursery environment.
Coral Nursery
Where Our Coral Nursery Is Located
The coral nursery is located off the northwestern coast of Roatan, directly in front of Anthony’s Key, within the Sandy Bay–West End marine protection area. The program uses underwater nursery structures to cultivate small coral fragments. These fragments are maintained as they grow and can eventually be transplanted to suitable reef locations. The objective is to help restore coral populations and support the recovery of reef structure, ecological function, and important coral species.
How Our Coral Nursery Works
Recovered coral fragments are placed on underwater structures known as coral trees, where they are maintained and nurtured as they grow. Once ready, the corals are relocated to the reef, helping restore important coral populations and strengthen the surrounding reef ecosystem. The program also creates opportunities for education and hands-on conservation. Visiting university groups and volunteer guests have assisted with nursery maintenance, connecting marine education with active reef restoration.
RECOVERY
(1) Naturally broken or fragmented corals are recovered.
NURSERY STRUCTURE
(2) Coral fragments are placed on underwater coral trees.
CORAL FRAGMENTS
(3) Staghorn Coral
CORAL FRAGMENTS
(4) Elkhorn Coral
ONGOING CARE
(5) Cleaning and Maintenance
CORAL OUTPLANTING
(6) Site Preparation
CORAL OUTPLANTING
(7) Student Assisted
CORAL OUTPLANTING
(8) Staghorn Coral Secured with Underwater Epoxy
GROWTH CHECK
(9) Staghorn Coral Growth
Coral Restoration in Action
Visiting students take part in hands-on coral restoration alongside the RIMS team, helping outplant coral fragments onto Roatan’s reef. Experiences like these combine marine science education with active participation in reef conservation.
1,622 Coral Fragments Restored
From 2020 through 2026, 1,622 coral fragments were restored through the RIMS coral restoration program, including Acropora palmata (elkhorn coral) and Acropora cervicornis (staghorn coral). These restoration efforts are complemented by educational initiatives designed to increase awareness and encourage the conservation of coral reef ecosystems.
Collaboration & Scientific Research
Coral restoration at RIMS combines scientific research, hands-on education, and conservation. University and high school student groups visiting RIMS participate in structured marine science programs, gaining valuable field experience in coral reef studies, oceanography, and biology.
Under the guidance of their professors and RIMS staff, students use our facilities as a marine research institution, and many participate in our coral restoration activities, including nursery maintenance and, when authorized, coral outplanting. The installation of coral nursery structures and coral outplanting requires permission from the Honduran government.
Through these educational and research initiatives, RIMS engages the next generation of marine scientists in efforts to restore and protect Roatan’s coral reefs.
Help Restore Roatan’s Reefs
Certified divers staying at Anthony’s Key Resort may have the opportunity to visit the coral nursery and assist with restoration and maintenance activities. Participation is subject to scheduling, conditions, and availability.
Supporting Conservation Organizations
Protecting Roatan’s marine environment requires cooperation among businesses, conservation organizations, local communities, and government agencies. Anthony’s Key Resort and its owners have played an important role in developing marine conservation initiatives in the Bay Islands.
Bay Islands Conservation Association (BICA)
The Bay Islands Conservation Association is an environmental organization dedicated to protecting the Bay Islands’ natural resources through conservation, environmental education, and community involvement. In 2026, BICA recognized Anthony’s Key Resort for its continued support of the organization’s conservation work during its 35th anniversary year.
Roatan Marine Park
The Roatan Marine Park works to protect the island’s marine ecosystems through conservation, environmental education, and responsible marine resource management. Our involvement reflects a long-standing commitment to protecting Roatan’s marine resources through collaboration with the organizations dedicated to their conservation.
Responsible Diving, Snorkeling & Ocean Conservation
Exploring Roatan’s underwater world is one of the most memorable experiences we share with our guests. It also comes with a responsibility to protect the fragile ecosystems beneath the surface. At Anthony’s Key Resort, we encourage divers and snorkelers to follow responsible practices that minimize their impact on coral reefs and marine life. These include maintaining proper buoyancy, securing equipment, avoiding contact with coral, and observing marine animals without touching, chasing, or disturbing them.
Improving Buoyancy, Protecting the Reef
Proper buoyancy control helps divers avoid accidental contact with coral and reduces the risk of damage to sensitive reef habitats. Our dive operation offers a Buoyancy Control Workshop to help divers develop their skills, improve underwater control, and become more environmentally responsible divers.
PADI Project AWARE: Dive with a Purpose
Through our PADI Project AWARE course offerings, guests can deepen their understanding of marine conservation and the importance of protecting our oceans.
These educational experiences connect a passion for diving with a greater awareness of the environmental challenges facing coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
Whether you’re a certified diver or simply interested in learning more about ocean conservation, we encourage you to explore the available courses and discover how you can make a positive difference.
By combining responsible diving practices with marine education, we hope to inspire guests to become advocates for the protection of Roatan’s reefs and oceans worldwide.
Marine Education & Dolphin Research
Marine education plays an important role in developing awareness and appreciation for ocean ecosystems.
Through the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences, Anthony’s Key Resort supports educational programs that introduce students and visitors to the biology, behavior, and conservation of marine mammals and the ocean they call home. RIMS’ dolphin programs provide opportunities to learn about bottlenose dolphins, including their anatomy, physiology, communication, echolocation, and social behavior.
These educational and research activities form part of RIMS’ broader mission to promote understanding of marine life.
Environmental Education & Awareness
Long-term conservation depends on education and community awareness. Through RIMS and our participation in conservation initiatives, Anthony’s Key Resort supports opportunities for students, guests, and the wider community to learn about marine ecosystems and the importance of protecting them.
Our Conservation Partnerships & Recognition
Our environmental work is strengthened by collaboration with organizations dedicated to protecting marine ecosystems locally and internationally. Anthony’s Key Resort has received recognition for its contributions to marine conservation and continues to support initiatives that advance ocean protection.
Sustainability and Community Recognition
Bay Islands Conservation Association: Recognition for continued support of BICA’s conservation initiatives in Roatán.
Healthy Reefs for Healthy People: Recognition for contributions to sustainable coral reef use, research, and restoration.
Big Blue Ocean Cleanup: Official membership in the Ocean Protection Project, connecting the resort with a broader initiative focused on protecting the ocean environment
Roatan Municipality and Community Organizations: Recognition from the Governor of the Bay Islands, the Municipality of Roatan, the Federation of Patronatos, and the Citizen Council of Roatan for our longstanding support of efforts to improve the quality and safety of tourism and help build a better future for Roatan.
Explore Our Sustainability Articles
Follow our ongoing sustainability work, including coral restoration, marine research, renewable energy, conservation education, and community partnerships throughout Roatan.
Responsible Tourism Starts With All of Us
Every visitor has an opportunity to help protect the natural beauty of Roatan. Small, thoughtful actions during your stay can help reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize impacts on the island’s ecosystems.
How You Can Help
- Conserve Water
- Be mindful of water consumption and support our linen and towel conservation practices.
- Choose Reusable Alternatives
- Use refillable water bottles and take advantage of our drinking-water refill stations.
- Respect Marine Life
- Observe marine animals from a respectful distance and never touch or disturb coral.
- Practice Responsible Diving
- Maintain proper buoyancy and keep equipment secured to avoid accidental reef damage.
- Learn About Our Marine Environment
- Explore educational opportunities through RIMS and discover why protecting Roatan’s reefs matters.
Together, these actions help us preserve the island’s natural environment and encourage a more responsible approach to travel.
Our Commitment Continues
Sustainability is not a single project or achievement. It is an ongoing responsibility that requires investment, collaboration, and continuous improvement. At Anthony’s Key Resort, our commitment to Roatan is reflected in the choices we make every day, from generating renewable energy and conserving water to supporting coral restoration, marine research, and environmental education. We recognize that protecting the island’s natural resources is essential to the well-being of its communities and the future of tourism. As we look ahead, we remain committed to improving our environmental practices, supporting conservation initiatives, and sharing the importance of responsible tourism with our guests.
Roatan is more than our destination. It is our home, and protecting its future is a responsibility we are proud to share!
Our Responsibility Goes Beyond the Environment
Our commitment to Roatan also includes supporting its people, preserving its cultural heritage, and contributing to community development. Discover how Anthony’s Key Resort supports local organizations, education, healthcare, and initiatives that strengthen the community we call home.