VICTORIA, Seychelles — Seychelles’ ongoing fight against plastic pollution was highlighted on Friday in a one-day roadshow hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment in collaboration with radio channel Pure FM, at the Camion Hall compound in Victoria.
Held under the theme ‘Be part of the solution to plastic, not the plastic pollution’, the fair aimed to raise awareness about initiatives, products and activities linked to plastics in Seychelles. Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment Flavien Joubert said the event showcased the efforts of schools, businesses and organisations to tackle the issue through recycling, innovation, education and community engagement. ‘In 2022, more than 400,000 tonnes of plastic were produced globally, and this number continues to grow each year,’ he noted.
Minister Joubert said the country has been one of the first in the world to implement restrictions on plastic bags and other items such as bowls, spoons, forks, straws, Styrofoam takeaway boxes and balloons, and announced that, before the end of the year, the ministry will resume discussions with partners to completely phase out plastic takeaway boxes. A new campaign for the collection of 5 and 12-litre bottles on La Digue is also in the pipeline.
The director general of Waste Enforcement and Permit, Nanette Laure, said the roadshow formed part of activities for this year’s ‘Clean Up the World’ campaign. Several organisations showcased their work, including SeyTreasure, which converts HDPE and PP plastics into reusable items. Two donations were made to the New Seychelles Hospital — R10,000 from the Department of Environment’s Social Committee and R16,000 from the Eco Warriors Environmental Club.
