Seychelles’ Marine Spatial Plan signed into law |16 May 2025

Seychelles’ Marine Spatial Plan signed into law

In 2012, at the Rio+20 Summit, the government of Seychelles announced its ambitious goal to protect 30 percent of its Exclusive Economic Zone, positioning the country as a global leader in marine conservation. To turn this vision into a reality, the government of Seychelles entered into extensive negotiations with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), culminating in an innovative debt-for-nature swap agreement with domestic creditors.

This landmark agreement successfully secured US $21.6 million in funding to facilitate the buyback in sovereign debt at a discount, ensuring the long-term protection and sustainable management of Seychelles’ vast marine territory. The initiative not only safeguards vital marine ecosystems and biodiversity but also strengthens Seychelles’ resilience against climate change and supports the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Press release from the department of Environment

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