Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles’ anniversary |21 July 2014

Citizens urged to become active environmentalists

A booklet on environmental law and citizenship has been launched with the aim of encouraging young people, their parents and teachers to uphold the law and become responsible and active environmental citizens.

The booklet was launched during a festival hosted by the Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles to celebrate its 20th anniversary.

The event, attended by children, youth and families, took place at the University of Seychelles’ Anse Royale campus on Saturday July 12.

During the festival there were performances by kids and a brief overview of the achievements of the wildlife clubs over the past 20 years, hands-on workshop and activities for kids and youth organised by a variety of non-governmental organisations and government departments as well as a variety show featuring performances by wildlife clubs. Popular artist Curious was also there to entertain.

During the celebrations, six wildlife club leaders received awards for continuous ten years service with the Wildlife Club Seychelles.

The festival for children, youth and families were full of activities

They are Christelle Jacques of Perseverance primary, Asunnta Julienne of Plaisance primary, Millano Pillay of Au Cap primary, Gracia Labiche of La Rosière creche primary, Betty Cecile of Bel Ombre primary and Wilna Figaro of Bel Eau primary.

Ms Pillay and Ms Figaro were not present to receive their prizes.

A short introduction to the newly launched booklet reads:

 “Seychelles is well known worldwide for our amazing biodiversity and our commitment to environmental protection. We have environmental laws that define how citizens, visitors and organisations can use the environment in a sustainable way, and prohibit actions that will harm the environment, human health, and plants or animals. The environment is protected by law because it is the key to human health, a vibrant economy, food security, and a clean water supply. The laws also recognise that native plants and animals have just as much right to live undisturbed as we do.

“Some of our environmental laws are derived from international agreements about protecting biodiversity, the land, or the atmosphere. Other laws are “home-grown” and were enacted in response to issues that are particular to Seychelles. Many environmental laws overlap with laws related to other sectors such as land use planning, health, and water or electricity. As in other countries, Seychelles’ laws are constantly being revised and updated in response to changes in society and the environment.

 “This little book is intended to be a reader-friendly introduction to Seychelles’ environmental laws and citizen rights and responsibilities. The first part of the book provides an overview of the key laws related to various environmental topics: animals, trees and other plants, water, waste, air, protected areas, etc.  If we are familiar with the laws, it is easier for us as citizens to comply with them and also to act as watchdogs to help make sure that others are following the law too.

“The second part of the book provides some practical ideas on how citizens can play their part in making sure that Seychelles’ environmental laws are respected. It is our hope that this book will provide an introduction to good environmental governance, and inspire readers to find out more about how the constitution and laws of Seychelles provide for protection of the environment, and also protection of our rights to speak up and act when we see that the laws are not being enforced. Each of us can play a part!”

Compiled by M. Julie