Seychelles Validates iCOAST Programme Proposal to Advance Sustainable Tourism

VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Tourism department, in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme, on Wednesday conducted a validation workshop on the Project Preparatory Grant phase for the Integrated Coastal Approach to Sustainable Tourism Programme in Seychelles. The one-day workshop at Laïla hotel, Anse Royale, was held in the presence of national and international partners, industry stakeholders, and government representatives.

The objective of the Integrated Coastal Approach to Sustainable Tourism (iCOAST) programme is to drive positive change in the tourism sector, helping it transition away from unsustainable operations, overconsumption, and the use of natural resources, products, and materials that contribute to the release of harmful chemicals and greenhouse gas emissions. The validation workshop brought together key partners to confirm the project’s design and to align stakeholders on the preparatory phase before the full programme is rolled out.

Officials said the iCOAST programme is intended to position Seychelles as a regional leader in sustainable tourism, with the long-term aim of preserving the country’s coastal ecosystems while supporting a competitive and resilient tourism industry. The validated preparatory work is expected to lay the groundwork for investments in cleaner, more efficient tourism operations and infrastructure in the coming years.