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."
Community and Society
Reef Week San Pedro kicks off with a swim to the reef challenge
Twenty-three participants kicked off the annual Reef Week San Pedro with an early morning swim challenge to the reef.
Conservation
Sargassum makes a slow return to Ambergris Caye
The influx of Sargassum has been increasing since 2011 within the Caribbean Sea. Although our beaches have been clear of the rotting, smelly mess for several months the dreaded seaweed has once again arrived at San Pedro Town's shores, slowly accumulating on the island's windward beachside. According to a National Meteorological Service of Belize report, an increase is expected in the coming weeks, with an overall bloom intensity similar to 2019.
Conservation
Belize Participates in the Green Climate Fund Transformational Climate Financing for the Caribbean Regional Dialogue
On March 1, 2021, the Prime Minister of Belize, Hon. John Briceño, participated in a high-level session with the Green Climate Fund (GCF) executive and regional leaders to discuss some of the climate vulnerability challenges that Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are facing.
Business & Economy
Lobster season dates have been changed; now closed March 1st – June 30th every year
The decision to extend the season was made by the Honourable Andre Perez, Minister of the Blue Economy and Civil Aviation, after consulting with the Fisheries Department and the fishing industry. As per the Fisheries Regulations 24A (1), the season extension will now close from the first of March to June 30th of this year.
Conservation
Training in the Application of Biodiversity Related Laws of Belize
The training is a part of an ongoing series of initiatives being implemented by the Ministry with financial support provided by the Protected Areas Conservation Trust. It was designed to inform its participants of the application of the National Protected Areas Systems Act and other related legislation. Other training in the series will include training in use of SMART Technologies and field navigation.