The Seychelles has more than 47 percent of its land territory under environmental protection in a bid to promote the Indian Ocean island country's sustained development, especially tourism, local media reported on Monday.

From now on, the country's protected zones will make up 47.19 percent of its 444 square km land territory.

Under the decision made over the weekend, the protection applies to 93 percent of Silhouette, which is the fourth largest of the country's 115 islands and the only one originated from volcanic activities.

Situated 30 km northwest of the main island of Mahe, Silhouette boasts a five-star hotel Labriz with a local population of about 100 and a variety of native animals and plants.

The move came as part of the country's aspiration to make the archipelago a world leader in building an environmentally friendly ecosystem. It was also a response to a call by the United Nations to make 2010 the international year of biodiversity to sensibilize the public opinion on the menaces from global climate change.