The President of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, has outlined the country’s approach to sustainability, climate change, and tourism. This came out in a recent interview with Sky News Arabia at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026.
Dr Herminie said sustainability is a central priority for Seychelles because of its rich biodiversity and its status as a small island state. According to the President, national policy seeks to improve livelihoods. At the same time, it aims to protect fragile ecosystems, particularly marine environments vital to the country’s economy and way of life.
He explained that development can have unavoidable environmental impacts and must therefore be carefully regulated. As a result, Seychelles applies strict planning controls. All major projects must undergo an Environmental Impact Assessment and obtain approval from environmental authorities before moving forward.
Addressing climate change, President Herminie said small island states are among the most exposed to its effects, despite contributing little to global greenhouse gas emissions. He highlighted rising sea levels and increasing temperatures as significant risks. He also noted that responding to these impacts is costly and places pressure on limited national resources.
In this context, he reaffirmed Seychelles’ support for the Loss and Damage Fund. He said the fund aims to support vulnerable countries affected by emissions mainly produced by larger economies.
The President said climate change presents environmental, economic, and public health risks. Low-lying islands remain particularly vulnerable to sea-level rise, while changes in temperature may contribute to health concerns. President Herminie added that limited capacity to respond and adapt increases these risks, although the country’s mountainous terrain offers some resilience.
He also warned that global focus on geopolitical tensions risks slowing climate action. He said efforts must accelerate, noting that rising sea temperatures are already affecting fish stocks, with consequences for food security and livelihoods.
Tourism, he said, remains central to the economy of Seychelles. However, he stressed that tourism development must progress alongside environmental protection, as preserving natural resources is essential for long-term economic stability and livelihoods.