Seychelles generates approximately 90,000 tonnes of waste annually. Waste is collected from communal collection points across the islands and transported using refuse compactor trucks to the controlled landfill facility at Providence.
As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Seychelles faces unique challenges in solid waste management, including limited land availability, high transport and operational costs, and the need for strengthened infrastructure and technical capacity.
The Ministry is responsible for the development and implementation of national waste management policies, legislation, and regulatory frameworks. Through the Waste Enforcement and Permit Division, the Ministry oversees policy development and regulation of waste collection, treatment, transport, and disposal.
The National Waste Policy (2018–2023) guides the sector with the overarching goal of ensuring that waste is managed in a sustainable manner, in order to protect the environment and improve the quality of life in Seychelles. The Ministry continues to strengthen waste management systems through waste reduction initiatives, improved recovery and recycling strategies, and alignment with international best practices.
Seychelles is a Party to key international agreements, including the Basel Convention and the Stockholm Convention, which regulate the transboundary movement, management, and disposal of hazardous waste and chemicals. Permits are required for the export of materials such as waste oil, batteries, scrap metals, and plastics, as well as for the disposal of hazardous waste including asbestos, chemicals, and expired pharmaceuticals.
Waste Management
The Ministry of Environment, Energy and climate Change is responsible for the development and the implementation of all waste management policy, legal and regulatory frameworks. The Waste enforcement and Permit Division of the Environment Department is responsible for developing all policies regarding waste, waste collection, characterization, treatment and disposal. The Seychelles National Waste Policy 2018-2023 was recently approved in December 2018 and the overall goal is to ensure that "Waste is managed in a sustainable manner, following the set guiding principles and approaches, in order to protect the integrity of the environment and improve the quality of life in Seychelles ".
The Landscape and Waste Management Agency (LWMA) is responsible for operational waste services, including waste collection, landfill management, and national cleaning and beautification programmes. The Agency also manages contracts for road and beach cleaning, public space maintenance, and related environmental services across the country.
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Plastics
Plastic pollution remains a significant environmental concern due to its persistence and impact on marine life, drainage systems, and ecosystems. In response, Seychelles has implemented measures to reduce single-use plastics, including restrictions on items such as plastic bags, utensils, containers, and straws. These efforts aim to reduce plastic waste leakage into the environment and promote sustainable alternatives.
Through coordinated policy, regulation, and operational action, the Ministry continues to strengthen waste and pollution management systems to protect public health, natural ecosystems, and the long-term environmental sustainability of Seychelles.