The meeting took place during Mr Michel’s visit to The Energy and Resources Institute (Teri) in New Delhi, where Dr Pachauri is the director-general.

Discussions took place on sea-level rise, renewable energy and energy efficiency in the tourism industry, particularly as Seychelles – like many other small island states – remains vulnerable to the threats posed by global warming and rising sea levels.
   
“We need to expand the possibilities of using cleaner energy in Seychelles,” said Mr Michel.

“We have already started a windfarm project, but we should also look further into solar energy as well as turning waste into energy.”

Dr Pachauri spoke to the President and his delegation about ways in which hotels can reduce energy consumption. He said research by the institute had concluded that an energy reduction of 45-50% is possible in hotel buildings, and this technology and model could be shared with Seychelles for future planning of new hotels.

“The work of Teri is important not only for India but for the whole world, as sustainable models it has developed may be applied everywhere,” said Mr Michel.

“Their models for hotel buildings that reduce energy consumption could be applied to our planning models at the Seychelles Planning Authority, so that in the future hotels that are built are more climate-friendly.

“Small island states like Seychelles are already affected by climate change. The sea level is rising, our corals are being bleached, and the survival of our people is at stake.

“Every step towards reducing the pace of climate change is important, and greater energy efficiency is a step in the right direction.”

Mr Michel also said that Teri and the University of Seychelles should start a partnership for research and degree programmes, as well as organise important meetings on climate change mitigation and adaptation. 

Forrás: http://www.nation.sc/index.php?art=19704