Protecting Our Ocean Nations: Mauritius & Seychelles at the Frontline of Climate Action

As the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, I see firsthand how these two island nations are navigating the dual challenges of climate vulnerability and sustainable development. On World Environment Day and World Oceans Day, I want to highlight why ocean conservation, plastic pollution, and climate financing are critical issues for our nations—and how the UN is working to address them.

The Power & Promise of the Blue Economy

The Blue Economy offers a path to sustainable growth, unlocking opportunities in marine tourism, fisheries, and renewable ocean energy. With their vast ocean territories, Mauritius and Seychelles are actively investing in ocean-based solutions to support livelihoods and protect marine ecosystems.

Through the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) in each country, the UN in Mauritius and Seychelles is working closely with governments and partners to strengthen ocean governance, marine biodiversity, and climate resilience. In Mauritius, we are supporting the development of a sustainable aquaculture strategy to balance economic growth with ocean conservation. In Seychelles, we are advancing marine spatial planning, ensuring that conservation efforts align with sustainable economic activities.

However, these benefits are at risk from plastic pollution, one of the greatest threats to marine ecosystems. World Environment Day’s theme #BeatPlasticPollution is a crucial reminder that tackling ocean plastic is essential to sustaining the Blue Economy.

#BeatPlasticPollution: A Call to Action

Plastic waste is choking our seas, harming marine life, fisheries, and coastal communities. Each year, millions of tons of plastic enter the ocean, breaking down into microplastics that disrupt ecosystems and impact human health.

The UN in Mauritius and Seychelles is working to combat plastic pollution through:
✅ Strengthening policies to cut single-use plastics
✅ Promoting coastal clean-ups and community action
✅ Encouraging sustainable waste management and recycling

A healthy marine environment is vital to a thriving Blue Economy—protecting livelihoods, biodiversity, and resilience. Mauritius and Seychelles must remain at the forefront of ocean conservation, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Addressing Climate Finance Challenges for SIDS

While Mauritius and Seychelles are highly vulnerable to climate change, accessing concessional climate finance remains an obstacle. As middle- and high-income countries, we often struggle to secure funding for adaptation and resilience-building, despite the existential threats we face.

The upcoming 2025 UN Ocean Conference provides a vital opportunity to advocate for financing mechanisms that recognize the unique vulnerabilities of SIDS. Mauritius and Seychelles will continue to push for global funding models that ensure island nations receive the resources needed to protect their ecosystems and communities.

Charting a Resilient Future

As the UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, I remain committed to supporting our nations in securing climate finance, strengthening ocean governance, and advancing sustainable development. On World Environment Day and World Oceans Day, let’s reaffirm our collective commitment to protecting our seas, driving sustainable ocean economies, and securing the resources necessary to safeguard our future.

The ocean sustains us—let’s stand up and protect it. 

Read more: 

Beat Plastic Pollution Campaign

UN Ocean Conference 2025