It's Time for Wetlands Restoration - World Wetlands Day 2023

To commemorate World Wetlands Day a joint clean-up was organised by SPGA and the GEF-UNDP Ridge to Reef Project alongside other partners in the Port Launay and Baie Ternay Marine Park.

World Wetlands Day is celebrated annually on 2nd February, and aims at raising awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and the planet. This activity falls in line with a component under the GEF-UNDP Project, “A Ridge to Reef Approach, for the Integrated Management of Marine, Coastal and Terrestrial Ecosystems in the Seychelles” (R2R Project): Coastal Freshwater Ecosystem Management – Port Launay Marine National Park Mangrove clean up (removal of solid waste).

Partners included Ephelia Resort, LEAP, Port Glaud District Management, National Children’s Council and the Ministry of Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment.

This year’s theme adopted by the UN was “It’s Time for Wetlands Restoration”, highlighting the urgent need to prioritize wetland restoration.

The activity aimed at bringing added education and awareness to the community and partners, in an effort to affirm and strengthen engagement and effective management of the wetland ecosystems.

The Baie Ternay and Port Launay Marine Parks offer unique access to an array of biodiversity, appreciated by tourists and locals alike. From mangrove areas, to pristine seascapes, sea grass beds and coral reefs. However, being located in a well frequented area and in close proximity to the local community, such environments are at threat to pollution and littering. During the 3hour clean-up materials collected included plastic and glass bottles, cans, food wrappings, tyres to name a few. All waste materials collected where then transported to the landfill for proper disposal.