Local scientists and stakeholders involved in the management of Blue Carbon data in Seychelles attended a skills development workshop which included a tailored-training on the protocols for collecting, processing, monitoring and analyzing mangrove and seagrass data. The training at the Constance Ephelia Resort in Port Launay, on Mahe island, was part of a workshop on the status of the Blue Carbon project in Seychelles being undertaken by the James Michel Foundation and Blue Carbon Lab of Deakin University, Australia with the financial support from Seychelles Conservation and Climate Adaptation Trust (SeyCCAT).

The study seeks to explore the Seychelles’ Blue Carbon future, by developing a first-pass assessment of potential Blue Carbon opportunities in the Seychelles and building local capacity and literacy on Blue Carbon. It aims to account for the ocean’s carbon offsetting capacity which can help Seychelles remain a net carbon sink and achieve its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).

In his opening remarks to the workshop participants, the Executive Chairman, Mr. James Michel highlighted the benefits of seagrass and mangrove ecosystems to Seychelles and their role in the Blue Economy.

“We are blessed to be surrounded by functioning ecosystems which delivers the astounding natural environment. In fact, the development of the Blue Economy is dependent on healthy marine and terrestrial ecosystems which in turn supports economic activities. Blue Economy is about sustainability. There cannot be sustainable Blue Economy without conservation and protection” remarked Mr. Michel.  

He went on to explain how Seychelles has been at the forefront of environment protection for many years. “It is our way of life. We are doing what we can towards the bigger global effort to heal and protect our oceans and coastal areas. Dedicating 30% of marine space as protected areas is testimony of the importance that Seychelles places on biodiversity protection. Seychelles has further commit to protect at least 50% of its seagrass and mangrove ecosystems by 2025 and 100% by 2030, with external support.

"This is remarkable progress in the fight against climate change and it underlines the importance of these ecosystems as nature- based solutions to climate change” he commented.