Corona’s Sustainable Island Is the Ultimate Proof That We Can Live in Harmony with Nature

The world's islands have become painful symbols of climate change. Today, five islands have been wiped off the map due to increased sea levels, and hundreds are still at risk of disappearing. 

As a commitment to protect beaches and fight against plastic, DDB Colombia and Corona Beer created an island that proves to the world that protecting our paradises while living in peace with nature is possible. 

Corona Island became the first island in the world to be certified as 100% free of single-use plastic by Oceanic Global, an international NGO that protects the oceans.

The design and construction of the island started in 2021 under expert architects specialised in sustainable development. All the structures were carefully built by local artisans without the use of heavy machinery to avoid pollution. Each facility on the island was built around nature's existing design, preserving the ecosystem and preventing the production of greenhouse gases. 

Bungalows were strategically placed to take advantage of the wind's course, reducing energy waste. LED lighting was installed close to the ground to avoid light pollution and CO2 impact. In addition, all structures were elevated at a specific distance from the floor to favour bird transit and sea turtle nesting. Since the island is home to thousands of native animals, the project carried out the reforestation of approximately 25,000 native plants and coral reefs that improved the temperature, living conditions, and habitat. In addition, the island's gastronomic offer is catered by local fishermen and products, which goes hand in hand with a zero-waste programme and certified waste disposal.

In June 2022, Corona Island opened its beaches to the world, setting the correct visitor quote to lower the impact of traditional tourism. It offered visitors from Canada, Brazil, South Africa, and other countries a unique experience where every detail was designed to make them breathe the brand's purpose: Disconnect and reconnect with nature and protect the environment.

Once on the island, visitors learned about coral maintenance and mangrove planting and how it leaves a positive impact by revitalizing the region's flora and fauna. Mindfulness and sustainability experiences for everyday life commitments complemented these activities. 

It became a global asset for the brand and will continue to operate through 2023, welcoming more countries and visitors to transform their lives and turn them into ambassadors of a message they will carry back home.