Sherin Francis, Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) Chief Executive, spoke at an important World Travel Market panel in London on Monday, November 5. The panel focused on how the travel industry is reducing the plastic pollution it causes.

During her address, Mrs. Francis discussed how the Seychelles Government is working to tackle the problem together with the relevant government entities and other partners.

She also spoke of the importance of sustainable development in Seychelles, mentioning how plastic pollution threatens the core of Seychelles image as an eco-friendly destination.

Mrs. Francis further elaborated on the work of the ministry of Environment is doing in collaboration with hoteliers and other businesses to gradually eliminate the use of plastic, such as the countrywide ban on common and single-use plastic items, which came into effect last year.

The STB Chief Executive explained that while the island nation is actively working to safeguard the environment, everyone must pitch in to protect it for the long-term.

“We must all do our part to preserve our marine environment,” she said. “It starts with the small steps that each of us takes every day. If we can all do our part, then we can make it sustainable for our future generation.”

Besides the STB Chief Executive, Environmental Directors and Sustainability Leaders addressed the global problem of plastic waste during the panel.

Speakers included Sören Stöber, Business Development Director ESG & Sustainability at Trucost, part of S&P Dow Jones Indices; Victoria Barlow, Environmental Manager, Thomas Cook; Jo Hendrickx, Travel Without Plastic; and Ian Rowlands, Director, Incredible Oceans.

Harold Goodwin, WTM’s Responsible Tourism Advisor, moderated the discussion and subsequent Q&A.