Conservation
SEA Strengthens Enforcement and Conservation in Southern Marine Reserves
The Southern Environmental Association (SEA), a Belizean conservation organization, is strengthening marine protection in southern Belize through new technology and community-led initiatives. Under the leadership of Executive Director Elizabeth Avila Muschamp, SEA co-manages the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve and Laughing Bird Caye National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Recent funding of BZ$750,000 from the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future has supported upgrades, including solar-powered ranger stations, long-range surveillance cameras, an underwater drone, mangrove restoration efforts, and expanded community watchdog groups.
Conservation
Stakeholders Review Proposed Management Plan for Bacalar Chico National Park
On Wednesday, February 4th, the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD) hosted a final socialization session with stakeholders in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, regarding its management plan for Bacalar Chico National Park. The session brought together island stakeholders from the private and tourism sectors. Attendees were updated on recent findings in the park and proposed conservation measures, while also providing feedback and recommendations.
Conservation
Hol Chan Secures Title to Mangrove Lands South of Ambergris Caye
Following public concern raised in September 2025 over the alleged subdivision of parcels of land south of Ambergris Caye in the Boca Ciega Area within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the office of Area Representative Honourable Andre Perez intervened to address the issue. Months later, on February 2nd, Perez’s office announced that the parcels in question, 11 in total, had officially been issued land titles in the name of the marine reserve.
Conservation
Belize Fisheries Convenes First National Shark Working Group Meeting
The Belize Fisheries Department, under the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, convened the first meeting of the National Shark Working Group (NSWG) on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Grand Resort and Residences in Belize City. The meeting brought together scientists, policymakers, and key stakeholders to advance marine conservation and promote the sustainable management of Belize’s aquatic resources.
Conservation
Belize sets five-year goal to plant one million trees
Belize officially launched the Greening Belize Initiative on January 26, 2026, at the Green Belize Complex auditorium in Belmopan. Prime Minister Honourable John Briceño, Minister of Sustainable Development Honourable Orlando Habet, and other officials attended the ceremony, which featured an invocation, the national anthem, addresses by government representatives, and the unveiling of a new mobile application designed to track tree planting nationwide.
Conservation
Local authorities say heavy equipment transported to north Ambergris Caye has no permits
Following images shared on social media on Thursday, January 22nd, showing heavy equipment being transported to northern Ambergris Caye, the Office of the Area Representative, Honorable Andre Perez, and the Hol Chan Marine Reserve submitted reports to several environmental government authorities, including the Prime Minister. According to officials, the transportation of the construction equipment was carried out without the proper permits or authorizations. On Friday, January 23rd, Perez said the individuals responsible for transporting the equipment were unable to produce any permits, and as a result, the equipment must be removed from the area.
Conservation
National Climate Consultations to Address Climate Risks Affecting Belize
The Government of Belize has launched a series of National Consultations to strengthen the country’s response to climate change, with a particular focus on vulnerable coastal communities and key economic sectors, such as tourism. The consultations, taking place from January 19 to January 30, 2026, are being led by the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Solid Waste Management, through the National Climate Change Office (NCCO). The process forms part of Belize’s National Adaptation Planning efforts, which aim to reduce climate risks and improve long-term resilience nationwide.
Conservation
DOE Introduces New Ozone Protection Regulations
The Department of the Environment (DOE) is rolling out a new environmental policy that may affect the importation of certain items, including refrigerators and...
Conservation
Belize’s Hidden Climate Treasure: Why Mangrove & Seagrass “Blue Carbon” Matters More Than Ever
Walk along any stretch of Belize’s coast, and you’ll see them: roots like stilts, leaves shining in the sun, small fish darting in and out. Mangroves are the backbone of our marine environment—and Belize has lots of them.
Community and Society
ACCSD Calls for Transparency and Community Engagement on Hol Chan and Other Development Issues
A public meeting was held on December 16th at the San Pedro Lions Den to discuss concerns surrounding unsustainable developments and the management and protection of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. The meeting, which brought together tour guides, tourism stakeholders, and other partners from the tourism sector, was organized by the Ambergris Caye Citizens for Sustainable Development (ACCSD). During the gathering, members expressed concern that certain decisions by island authorities are threatening both the marine environment and the livelihoods of those who depend on it. The group announced plans to engage local authorities at a follow-up meeting scheduled for next month.
Community and Society
For the love of the sea: Elito Arceo recognized as an Ocean Hero
Islander and long-time marine advocate Jose “Elito” Arceo has been honored for his dedication to the sea and his decades-long fight to protect Belize’s marine resources. The proud San Pedrano, along with fellow Belizean ocean defender Dennis Garbutt, received Oceana Belize’s Ocean Hero Award on December 4th. The recognition highlights the urgent need to safeguard Belize’s marine environment, and both honorees hope their work inspires the next generation of conservation advocates.
