Nuts for Coconuts!

Photo: Coconuts at Coco Palm Bodu Hithi

The Coconut Tree was adopted as the national tree of the Maldives for its abundance and significance to the locals. From the leaves to its roots, every part of the coconut tree has its use. The unwind® Coconuts! series begins with the outer shell of the coconut.

The outer husk of the coconut seed is removed to make coir ropes and copra is used to create coconut milk or sometimes grated as a cooking ingredient. Bio char, a charcoal obtained from burning hard coconut shells, are also being used by Maldivians to achieve their goal of becoming the first carbon neutral country in the world. Coconut shells are made into "raa badhi" (toddy holders) and coconut shell spoons, which is a main attraction for tourists. From making ornaments, table wares or souvenirs, Maldivians have embedded the use of coconut shells for traditional art and crafts.