Conservation
Belize makes progress in fulfilling conservation commitments outlined in the Blue Bond initiative
Three years after Belize’s landmark “debt-for-nature” swap, the country has made significant strides in conservation through its Blue Bonds initiative. This historic agreement provided funding for marine protection in exchange for debt relief. In late 2021, Belize completed a $360 million debt-for-nature swap, which involved restructuring its external debt and securing $180 million for marine conservation efforts.
Conservation
Sea turtle nesting season has begun; Sargassum poses potential threat
The Hol Chan Marine Reserve has announced the start of the 2025 sea turtle nesting season in northern Ambergris Caye. Over the years, Hol Chan has been monitoring the island’s northern beaches and observing the challenges that sea turtles face during nesting season, which typically lasts until November. One of the significant challenges this year is the increased influx of Sargassum seaweed, which poses a threat to the nesting period, alongside the rise in human activities.
Conservation
Belize Reef Sharks make a remarkable comeback
The resurgence of Belize's reef sharks, a significant conservation success story, is a result of the dedicated efforts of the MarAlliance team. With a history in shark research and fishing dating back to 1985, they have played a pivotal role in this transformation. Despite the bleak outlook for years, with iconic species like sawfish disappearing and great hammerhead sightings becoming rare, researchers have been documenting a remarkable recovery at key monitoring sites since 2022. Turneffe Atoll, for instance, saw a tenfold increase in Caribbean reef shark numbers since 2014.
Conservation
Champions of mangrove conservation honored at Mangrove Friendly Development Challenge
The Mangrove Friendly Development Challenge, an inspiring competition organized by the World Wildlife Fund, celebrated and awarded innovative projects that promote mangrove conservation in the Cayes. The Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association (TASA) and El Ben Cabanas from Caye Caulker were among the winners. TASA was recognized in the Conservation and Sustainability Value category, while El Ben Cabanas received an award in the Aesthetics and Creativity category. This recognition highlights TASA's and El Ben Cabanas' commitment to conservation and their successful efforts to emphasize the importance of marine ecosystems, particularly the protection of mangrove forests.
Conservation
PACT and Belize Fund Partner to Strengthen Conservation Financing in Belize
The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) and the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future (Belize Fund) have formalized a partnership to enhance conservation financing for Belize’s National Protected Areas System (NPAS). The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) marks a significant step in ensuring coordinated and effective financing for the country’s protected areas and natural resources.
Conservation
Grant Awarded to SACD for Managing Bacalar Chico National Park
The Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD) recently received a grant to enhance enforcement efforts across four protected areas in Belize. This generous investment from the Belize Nature Conservation Foundation (BNCF) will allow SACD personnel to improve the monitoring and management of the Bacalar Chico National Park in northern Ambergris Caye.
Conservation
Joint Press Release: Cayo Rosario Development is not a done deal
Concerned citizens along with tourism and conservation stakeholders reiterate our call for the protection of our livelihoods and local economy. The recent joint press release issued by the Department of the Environment via the Government Press Office continues to confirm the lack of transparency from key government agencies. The statement from relevant agencies also highlights the lack of coordination between the government units responsible for the various permits that are required for such projects. But perhaps most alarming, is that despite conceding a lack of communication and consultation with stakeholders and beneficiaries of this protected area, the community’s public outcries are being dismissed as “emotional.”
Conservation
Belize hosts inaugural Blue Forum, engaging stakeholders in the marine sector
The Government of Belize kicked off April with the Blue Forum, an event that brought together stakeholders from the marine and conservation sectors. This event took place at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City starting on April 1st. Its purpose was to promote discussions on science-driven ocean management, encourage collaboration, and strengthen Belize’s blue economy.
Community and Society
Fishermen and tour guides protest dredging and overwater structures at Cayo Rosario
On Tuesday, March 25th, a powerful and peaceful protest took place in the waters surrounding Cayo Rosario, a small island located within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve off the northwest coast of Ambergris Caye, Belize. Over 30 boats gathered for a united demonstration against the proposed dredging of the seabed and the construction of over-the-water structures, which have been contentious issues for years.
Conservation
Belize Gears Up for Reef Week 2025: “Building Resilience from Ridge to Reef!”
Local non-governmental organizations, tourism partners, and business allies are coming together to celebrate the 14th Annual Reef Week from Saturday, March 15th to Saturday, March 22nd, 2025. Under the theme “Building Resilience from Ridge to Reef!”, this week-long event will highlight the Belize Barrier Reef’s critical role in the national economy, environmental health, and Belizean identity.
Conservation
Preserving mangroves is essential for juvenile fish
Mangrove habitats in Belize are vital for juvenile fish, serving as essential nurseries supporting marine biodiversity and local fisheries. Often called the "nurseries of the sea," these coastal ecosystems provide shelter and food for young fish species, allowing them to thrive before migrating to open waters as adults. The complex root systems of mangroves create an environment that protects these juvenile fish from predators while offering plenty of foraging opportunities.