Conservation

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.

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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.

On Monday, February 3rd, the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors announced that it had approved a new project called “Blue Cities and Beyond.” This initiative aims to support Belize’s Blue Economy by promoting the sustainable use of ocean and coastal resources for economic development while protecting the environment and improving livelihoods. Valued at US$32.23 million, the project will fund initiatives in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize City, and Punta Gorda in southern Belize.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a vital marine protected area that attracts thousands of visitors yearly, boosting San Pedro’s economy. Established in 1987, the reserve encompasses a large expanse of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests, serving as an essential habitat for diverse marine life. Despite its protected status, the reserve has encountered challenges due to illegal fishing practices threatening its ecological balance. To tackle these issues, the Compliance and Enforcement Unit of Hol Chan Marine Reserve has been conducting joint patrols with the San Pedro Police Formation at random times.