Message from the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change (MEECC) to celebrate World Wildlife Day on March 3 |04 March 2020

‘Sustaining all life on earth and a biodiversity super year during 2020’

“Earth is home to countless species of fauna and flora. Nearly a quarter of all species are presently at risk of going extinct in the coming decades, and their demise would only speed up the disappearance of countless others, putting us in danger as well.

“World Wildlife Day 2020 was chosen to be celebrated on March 3 because it was the same day as the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973. The theme for World Wildlife Day 2020 is, ‘Sustaining all life on Earth’.

“The year 2020, known as a ‘biodiversity super year’, will host several major global events that place biodiversity at the forefront of the global sustainable development agenda. Seychelles has committed to achieve all 17 sustainable development goals. The country continues to make transformative progress in wildlife conservation both at national and international levels.

“Biodiversity and a pristine environment has always been of critical importance to the people of Seychelles and our culture. For many years we have thrived on marine wildlife for food security and as an economic pillar for our economy. Our unique plants and animals bring people from over the world into our small but beautiful country. From the tourists to the scientists, the experience is unforgettable for all.

“The Seychelles wildlife includes some of the most unique species that can be found nowhere else on Earth. Unfortunately, many of our species have become endangered due to both natural and anthropogenic factors. Many of our iconic, endemic species such as the Seychelles sheath-tailed bat/Sousouri bannann (Coleuraseychellensis), have become critically endangered on the IUCN Red List due to increased development and human disturbances. Others have and are being heavily impacted by pollution, invasive alien species, over harvesting and many more. The rate at which this is occurring is very alarming

“The Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change as well as other NGOs, individuals and community organisations continue to raise awareness of the multitude of benefits of wildlife to people.

“As we strive to build a brighter future, let us not forget that we cannot survive without biodiversity.”

Contributed by MEECC