Seychelles | Validated a Major Five - Year Sustainable Tourism Project

Seychelles recently validated a major five - year sustainable project, part of its iCOAST initiative, securing up to $5 million from the Global Environment Facility (GEF - 8) to reduce tourism footprint via circular economy models, climate resilience, and nature - based solutions, focusing on local supply chains, green finance for SMEs, ecosystem protection and policy reform, all under the new Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework (2025 - 2035). 

Held on 3rd December 2025 at Laila, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, the presentation of this preparation validation project, led by the Tourism Department in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Commonwealth Secretariat, moves toward final approval, strengthening the country’s green tourism future and the session reviewed and validated the draft full proposal for submission to the Global Environment Facility.

The five – year project targets measures across the visitor economy, from ecosystem protection and support for local supply chains to access to green finance for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and policy and institutional reforms, aligning with the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Framework.

Key Features of the Project: 

•    Circular Economy: Implementing models to reduce waste and promote within the tourism sector. 
•    Climate Resilience: Enhancing the industry’s ability to withstand climate impacts. 
•    Nature - Based Solutions: Protecting and restoring marine and coastal ecosystems. 
•    Local Supply Chains: Supporting local businesses and sourcing within the islands. 
•    Green Finance: Increasing access to funding for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in tourism.
•    Policy and Institutional Reform: Strengthening governance for sustainable tourism. 

Strategic Alignment: 

•    Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework (SSTPF) 2025- 2035: The project directly supports this national policy for an inclusive, responsible, and value – driven sector. 
•    National Vision: Aligns with goal of a resilient nation living in harmony with nature. 

Officials said next steps include refining the proposal with national and international partners for CEO endorsement, positioning Seychelles to strengthen destination resiliencnce while sustaining the natural assets that underpin its tourism offer. 

 
Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/seychelles-validates-five-year-sustainable-tourism-project.html