Conservation
Delicate Balance at Risk: Belize Reef Battles Record Sargassum Levels
A severe environmental crisis is unfolding along the northern coastline of Ambergris Caye. An unprecedented influx of sargassum seaweed is impacting the Belize Barrier Reef, particularly the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve and National Park. The decomposing seaweed along the shoreline and near the reef is causing massive marine mortality and disrupting the ecosystem. Conservation groups and marine scientists are urgently documenting the damage and calling on the government to declare the sargassum event a national disaster.
Community and Society
Workshop Highlights Legal Tools for Sustainable Development
On Friday, August 15th, a Community Workshop on Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection was held at the Sunbreeze Hotel conference room, signaling a renewed commitment to safeguarding Ambergris Caye’s future. Organized by Senator Hon. Gabriel Zetina and supported by Senator Janelle Chanona, the workshop aimed to equip stakeholders with the necessary legal and policy tools to navigate Belize’s evolving governance framework for land use, development, and environmental compliance.
Conservation
The Challenges of Protecting the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve
The Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, located in southern Belize, is a chain of 14 islands off the coast of the Toledo District, currently co-managed by the Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE). TIDE conducts routine patrols alongside the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) to protect the area from illegal fishing and other illicit activities. However, enforcement efforts are met with significant challenges, including transboundary issues stemming from the reserve’s proximity to Guatemala and Honduras.
Conservation
Understanding Human Involvement in Sea Turtle Hatchling Rescues
The sea turtle nesting season is underway, and the eastern beaches of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, are a favored nesting site for these magnificent marine creatures. While most nests are typically reported along the remote northern beaches of the island, a recent discovery brought sea turtle activity much closer to town. On the night of July 23rd, residents north of downtown San Pedro spotted baby sea turtles emerging from a nest and alerted authorities.
Conservation
Belize Launches 24/7 Hotline to Combat Forest-Related Crimes
On July 16, 2025, the Belize Forest Department launched a new 24-hour hotline (+501-610-1524) to report environmental crimes and forest-related concerns. The initiative offers the public a direct and immediate way to report activities threatening Belize’s forest resources, including illegal logging, wildlife trafficking, and other environmental violations. Developed in collaboration with Belize Bird Rescue, the hotline aims to strengthen community involvement in forest protection and conservation efforts.
Conservation
Rare Sea Turtle Nest Discovered Near Downtown San Pedro
On Wednesday night, July 23rd, residents just north of San Pedro Town reported the sighting of baby sea turtles on the beach. Approximately 139 hatchlings had emerged but appeared disoriented. The ACES Wildlife Rescue team was first contacted and, in turn, reached out to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, which oversees a sea turtle conservation program. Under Hol Chan’s guidance, the hatchlings were rescued. They are now in the care of the Reserve and will be safely released into the sea in the coming days.
Conservation
MarAlliance Community Workshops Highlight the Importance of Mangroves
The non-governmental organization MarAlliance has been conducting a series of outreach workshops nationwide, sharing information on the vital role of mangrove ecosystems. The first session was held in San Pedro Town on July 21st, where tour guides, environmentalists, and tourism stakeholders were in attendance. Presentations focused on how mangroves support fish populations and biodiversity, as well as on the methods used for data collection. The organization also encouraged the community to get involved in conservation and rehabilitation efforts.
Conservation
Carbon Project to Safeguard Belize Maya Forest Achieves Major Milestone: Validation Unlocks Climate, Biodiversity, and Community Benefits
The Government of Belize (GOB) and the Belize Maya Forest Trust (BMFT) announced that the country’s largest carbon conservation project has successfully completed validation under VERRA’s Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and Climate, Community, and Biodiversity Standard (CCBS), the globally recognized program for voluntary carbon markets. This milestone confirms that the project meets rigorous environmental and social criteria, reinforcing the Belize Maya Forest’s critical role in climate resilience, biodiversity protection, and sustainable development.
