Community and Society
Minister of the Blue Economy comments on the proposed development of Cayo Rosario
The controversial Cayo Rosario development of Ambergris Caye is again a concern to residents of San Pedro Town. The proposed tourism development, which has received environmental clearance and green light for construction, includes over-the-water structures. These buildings will be erected above protected fishing flats - the bloodline of the local flyfishing industry. The area also lies in the middle of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. For these reasons, stakeholders continue to oppose the development and hope that the new administration will intervene and save the multi-million-dollar industry, which is the livelihood of many.
Conservation
PACT Celebrates 25 Years of Supporting the Management of the Belize National Protected Areas System
June 6th, 2021 marks the 25th anniversary of the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT). The Trust was operationalized as a statutory body in 1996 as Belize’s national financing mechanism for protected areas and it has directly invested over $34 Million in the national protected areas system in addition to varied indirect financial support.
Community and Society
SATIIM Board Confirms New Executive Director
As the first Program Coordinator of SATIIM’s Women’s Program, Ms. Ch’oc demonstrated a high level of proficiency in both technical and interpersonal skills, including project management, staff supervision, community outreach and administration. As Executive Director, she brings new energy and perspectives to SATIIM’s programs in the defense of human rights and the environment, the promotion of sustainable community development, and the leadership of women and youth.
Conservation
Visitors to northern beaches asked to NOT LITTER; these are sea turtle nesting grounds!
A group of island residents made it their task to clean up a popular beach area by Robles Point in northern Ambergris Caye filled with rubbish. Many of the discarded items are non-biodegradable and pose a threat to the delicate natural environment and the nesting grounds frequented by sea turtles each year. If this practice continues, it will tarnish the natural beauty of these beaches, and sea turtles may never return to nest. Persons visiting this area of the island need to do the right thing and not leave their garbage behind after picnicking.
Community and Society
Renowned Belizean marine scientist Dr. Robert Trench passes away
Highly respected scientist Dr. Robert K. Trench passed away on April 27th. Dr. Trench, a born Belizean, was recognized as the leading expert in identifying the symbiotic relationship between corals and algae.
Community and Society
Sharon Matola: The founder of the Belize Zoo and warrior in environmental conservation, passes away
The world's best little haven for animals, the Belize Zoo lost its beloved founder, Sharon Matola, on Sunday, March 21st. Matola was 66 years old, and her death caught many by surprise, prompting messages of condolences even from the Prime Minister describing her as a pioneer in many regards.
Conservation
World Water Day 2021
Today, the Ministry of Natural Resources, Mining, and Petroleum, in conjunction with various local water partners, is celebrating World Water Day. World Water Day, which celebrates the vital importance of freshwater, was recommended at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). The United Nations General Assembly responded by designating March 22, 1993, as the first World Water Day.
Conservation
2021 Eco-Audit reveals low progress in the protection of the Mesoamerican Reef System
According to the Director of the Healthy Reefs Initiative Melanie McField, "We have known for over two decades what needs to be done – this Eco-Audit is evidence that some efforts are underway, but the pace of these actions is far too slow."