Ministry celebrates Earth Day with Tree Planting

The Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change with the collaboration of Constance Ephelia Resort, the Seychelles National Park Authority and the Port Glaud District Administration participated in a tree planting activity on Friday 22^nd April, 2016 at Port Launay, Port Glaud District to celebrate Earth Day’s 45th anniversary. Under this year’ theme “Trees for the Earth”, the event was celebrated by engaging in reforesting affected areas damaged by deforestation and by forest fires.

Last year, a forest fire occurred in Port Launay which took the Fire Services three days to four days to control due to the rugged terrain and strong winds. The result of the occurrence destroyed many endemic palms and left a large clearing area. In that same year with the aid of the Constance Ephelia Resort, the Ministry organized a tree planting activity for a forest regeneration project. However due to the extent of the damaged area another tree planting activity was deemed necessary.

Therefore to commemorate this year’s Earth Day, the Ministry took the initiative to invite once again Constance Ephelia Resort and the Seychelles National Park Authority to give their valued support. The aim of this activity was to plant 500 plants; a synergy effort alongside the national campaign of planting 20,000 trees and the International campaign by the Earth Day Network’s goal to plant 7.8 billion trees within the next five years. Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on the 22^nd April and it is observed on a global scale, countries memorialize this day by introducing innovative environmental laws, reforestation projects, talks and forums.

The Port Launay tree planting activity was officially launched by the Principal Secretary of Environment Mr. Alain Decomarmond in the presence of 70 participants. After completing the 30 minute trail, in a pleasant atmosphere and surroundings, the staff of the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change and the following participants were able to plant 630 palms surpassing the actual goal. The event ended with a luncheon at the beautiful Port Launay beach whereby the volunteers enjoyed the rest of the day.