Funding Secured for Belize’s Shark Conservation at the Atolls

On Thursday, October 24th, the Government of Belize Press Office released a statement regarding new long-term funding for Belize’s Atolls. The surf wear company Matuse, the Andrew Sabin Foundation, and the Global Fin Print project announced their commitment to support three critical shark conservation areas: Glovers Reef, Lighthouse Reef, and Turneffe Atolls. According to the 2023 Global Fin Print study, these atolls are among the top habitats for coral reef sharks globally. However, these species have faced an alarming average decline of 63% worldwide and are classified as threatened due to overfishing. In response to this ecological crisis, the Government of Belize implemented a ban on shark fishing within a two-mile radius of each atoll in 2021.
The primary funding for this initiative will be used to employ local shark fishers, the closure of which has economically impacted certain fishing areas. These individuals will transition from fishing roles to research positions, utilizing baited remote underwater video stations to monitor shark populations. Beverly Wade, Director of the Blue Bond and Finance Permanence Unit, emphasized, “This project will provide essential information to help the Government of Belize evaluate the effectiveness of these protective measures. By replacing fishing days with research days, we can also reduce shark catches outside these protected areas.” Tom Felt from Matuse also expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “We are pleased to support this community-based conservation project. Sharks are integral to ocean ecosystems, and effective conservation strategies must consider the needs of both sharks and local communities.”
Wade emphasized, “Tourists come to Belize to experience our incredible coral reefs, and sharks are a key species that divers and snorkelers wish to see. While there is a small-scale shark fishery in operation, it is crucial to maintain safe habitats for sharks. We must also ensure sustainable fishing practices outside these protected zones so that local fishers can continue to support their families.”
The total funding for this initiative is set at $450,000BZ over four years, with plans to extend the program based on its outcomes. Dr. Demian Chapman, the lead scientist of Global Fin Print and Director of Sharks and Rays Conservation Research at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium in Sarasota, Florida, expressed optimism about the project: “Belize is on a promising trajectory toward enhanced shark conservation, supported by a strong network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). We look forward to collaborating with Matuse and the Andy Sabin Foundation to ensure that these efforts benefit both sharks and the Belizean community.”
This commitment marks a significant step forward in improving shark populations in Belize and highlights the importance of sustainable practices in supporting local communities and preserving marine biodiversity.