Home Conservation Seychelles – a beacon of conservation consciousness in the Indian Ocean

Seychelles – a beacon of conservation consciousness in the Indian Ocean

An eco ethos that inspires a lighter carbon footprint

by capetowndiva
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Giant Aldabra tortoise Leonardo aged 56, at Constance Lemuria

I’m back in Seychelles to delve a little deeper into conservation & sustainability.  This time, I’ve had the privilege of staying at Constance Ephelia and Constance Lemuria, two exceptional properties with a strong commitment to lowering their carbon footprint. I’ll be going into greater detail about my experiences at both hotels, in articles to come. For now though, let me unpack a little about what Seychelles has been doing to up their green game, long before it became ‘fashionable’ to do so.
Firstly- location. Seychelles is a tiny republic in the Western Indian Ocean, an archipelago of 115  mountainous granitic and flatter coralline islands, flush with tropical vegetation, lush forests, crystal clear aquamarine waters, glistening white beaches, and incredible plant, marine and bird life, much of which is endemic.
BELOW:Constance Lemuria’s ‘turtle manager’ Robert Matombé whose mission in life is to protect the nesting & egg laying Hawksbill & Green Turtles that visit Anse Kerlan regularly.

Constance Lemuria’s ‘turtle manager’ Robert Matombé whose mission in life is to protect the nesting & egg laying Hawksbill & Green Turtles that visit Anse Kerlan regularly

Recognising the importance of preserving its unique natural heritage, Seychelles has implemented a comprehensive conservation strategy that emphasises sustainability. One of the cornerstones of the country’s conservation efforts is the establishment of protected areas. Nearly half of the country’s landmass is designated as nature reserves or national parks, safeguarding critical habitats for endangered species. The Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one such area, home to the world’s largest population of giant tortoises.

Granitic rocks surrounding a lagoon flanked by mangrove thickets. Image: Ryan Enslin

Seychelles has also pioneered the ‘Blue Economy’ model, which promotes sustainable use of ocean resources while ensuring marine biodiversity is protected, such as strict regulations on fishing, the creation of marine protected areas, and the promotion of eco-friendly tourism.

In other exciting news, July this year, the Seychelles Tourism Department (SND) announced the expansion of its acclaimed Sustainable Seychelles Certification Programme to now include restaurants and tour operators. Since its launch in 2012, the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Label, recently rebranded as the Sustainable Seychelles Brand in October 2023, has played a crucial role in promoting sustainability within tourism accommodations.

The programme’s expansion to restaurants and tour operators aims to further embed sustainability practices within the local tourism sector, reinforcing Seychelles as a leading sustainability-minded destination.

BELOW: Cycling on La Digue- best way to explore!

Exploring by bike is a classic way to lower your carbon footprint. Image: Ryan Enslin

In addition to governmental initiatives, community involvement plays a crucial role in conservation. Local communities are engaged in eco-tourism projects, sustainable fishing practices, and environmental education programs. This grassroots involvement ensures that conservation efforts are culturally relevant and supported by those who live in these biodiverse environments. It’s a joy to visit islands like Curieuse to find out more about the giant Aldabra tortoises and Cousin, you with its extraodinary birdlife (and giant tortoises) – thriving populations that are testament to Nature Seychelles’ stirling conservation efforts. For anyone who adores nature & is passionate about biodiversity, Seychelles impacts to the core.

BELOW: Ground nesting Tropic bird on Cousin Island 

Through these efforts, the country is demonstrating that conservation and sustainability are not only compatible but essential for preserving both its natural beauty and the well-being of its people. It’s so inspiring and long may it last!

Be sure to visit Seychelles- aside from the brilliant environmental protection aspect, it’s a glorious tropical island vacation.

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Follow me on Instagram for ongoing travel inspo! @allisonfoat 

BON VOYAGE!

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