Regional Waste Management and Ocean Conservation in Focus as President Dr Patrick Herminie Receives IUCN Delegation
Efforts to strengthen regional responses to waste management and marine conservation were among the key issues discussed this morning as President Dr Patrick Herminie received a delegation from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) during a courtesy call at Salon des Gouverneurs, State House.
Central to the talks was a regional waste management programme coordinated by IUCN involving seven island states, aimed at improving waste management systems in small island nations and reducing marine pollution across the Indian Ocean region.
Led by Mr Luther Anukur Bois, Regional Director of IUCN, the meeting explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration between Seychelles and IUCN in advancing environmental protection, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development initiatives. The initiative also aims to strengthen IUCN’s cooperation with small island states, recognizing their unique environmental challenges and vulnerabilities.
Particular attention was given to strategies to improve solid waste management, including landfill management, recycling systems, and community-based initiatives aimed at reducing plastic pollution. The regional programme seeks to enhance waste collection systems, strengthen recycling practices, and build technical capacity within participating island states.
Another issue addressed during the meeting concerned cooperation in the joint management of the Mascarene Plateau between Seychelles and Mauritius. The plateau, a vast underwater geological formation shared by the two countries, represents an important area for marine biodiversity and sustainable resource management. Seychelles is seeking technical assistance from IUCN to further support the management and protection of the site.
The meeting also highlighted innovative approaches to financing conservation initiatives, including mechanisms to support environmental projects and climate resilience programmes.
The delegation also touched on the Loss and Damage Fund, exploring ways which countries such as Seychelles may access financial support through technical guidance and cooperation with IUCN.
Discussions further focused on the Blue Economy and climate resilience, areas considered essential for sustainable development and environmental protection in island states.
IUCN also sought the continued engagement and support of Seychelles in global conservation discussions, with particular focus placed on the Ocean Conference scheduled to take place later this year.
The delegation included the Minister for Environment Marie-May Jeremie, Mr Nirmal Jivan Shah, Mr Peter Manyara, Mrs Debasmita Boral Rolland, Mrs Sophie Ajwala, and Ms Magalo Rocamora.
For Seychelles, cooperation with IUCN remains important in strengthening environmental governance while supporting the country’s efforts to protect its natural heritage and advance a resilient blue economy.
Historical Note
Founded in 1948, IUCN is one of the world’s leading authorities on nature conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. The organisation brings together governments, scientific institutions, and civil society groups to develop policies and actions aimed at safeguarding ecosystems and biodiversity worldwide.
