Conservation
Belize Fisheries Department Urges Heightened Caution Following Multiple Manatee Strandings in February
The Belize Fisheries Department is issuing a serious and urgent reminder to all vessel operators following multiple manatee strandings recorded across the country during the month of February 2026. The Belize Marine Mammal Stranding Network documented eight manatee strandings in Corozal, Belize City, Placencia, Gales Point, and Hopkins. Of particular concern are three confirmed cases in which injuries consistent with vessel strikes were identified.
Environment
Opposition Emerges Over Proposed International Airport on Ambergris Caye
The proposed development of an international airport north of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, has sparked mixed reactions among residents. While some islanders support the initiative, others have begun voicing opposition. An online petition has been launched to gather signatures against the project, which would allow private jet owners to fly directly to Ambergris Caye from international destinations.
Conservation
Barge Activity Near Mexico Rocks Raises Environmental Concerns
Barge activity near the Mexico Rocks protected area in northern Ambergris Caye has once again drawn public concern, months after a controversial dredging project in the area came under heavy scrutiny. The dredging initiative, approved in June 2025, was intended to facilitate the passage of barges transporting construction materials and other goods. At the time, tourism stakeholders and environmental advocates questioned the decision, arguing that the area is environmentally sensitive and that such activity could jeopardize coral formations within the nearby marine reserve.
Environment
San Pedro Mobilizes Ahead of Expected Heavy Sargassum Season
On February 24th, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) urged community partners to begin preparations for the upcoming sargassum season. Early windy conditions in February brought the first influx of the brown seaweed to the shores of San Pedro. According to reports, the 2026 season is expected to bring large amounts of sargassum to the region, and collective efforts will be required to keep the island’s main beach areas as clear as possible.
Environment
IDB-Funded Wastewater Project Moves Forward for Caye Caulker
Plans are moving forward to upgrade Caye Caulker’s sanitation infrastructure, following the Cabinet’s approval of a US$10 million loan to build a wastewater collection and treatment system for the island. The project will now seek approval in the House of Representatives and proceed under a sovereign-guarantee financing agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Community and Society
Valentine’s Day Cleanup Highlights Ongoing Littering Concerns on Ambergris Caye
On Valentine’s Day, February 14th, the Ambergris North Alliance organized a community cleanup along San Pedro’s North Road. Roughly 45 to 50 volunteers gathered at four starting points: the Sir Barry Bowen Bridge, Grand Caribe, X’tan Ha, and Matachica, covering the stretch from the bridge to approximately nine miles north.
Environment
Belize and UK Celebrate Ocean Partnership Milestones During OCPP Week
Belize and the United Kingdom strengthened their long-standing collaboration in marine conservation and climate resilience during Ocean Country Partnership Programme (OCPP) Week, held from Wednesday, February 4th, to Friday, February 6th. The three-day forum brought together government officials, UK representatives, scientists, youth leaders, and civil society stakeholders to reflect on five years of cooperation and to outline priorities for the future of Belize’s ocean governance.
Conservation
SEA Strengthens Enforcement and Conservation in Southern Marine Reserves
The Southern Environmental Association (SEA), a Belizean conservation organization, is strengthening marine protection in southern Belize through new technology and community-led initiatives. Under the leadership of Executive Director Elizabeth Avila Muschamp, SEA co-manages the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve and Laughing Bird Caye National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Recent funding of BZ$750,000 from the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future has supported upgrades, including solar-powered ranger stations, long-range surveillance cameras, an underwater drone, mangrove restoration efforts, and expanded community watchdog groups.
Conservation
Stakeholders Review Proposed Management Plan for Bacalar Chico National Park
On Wednesday, February 4th, the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD) hosted a final socialization session with stakeholders in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, regarding its management plan for Bacalar Chico National Park. The session brought together island stakeholders from the private and tourism sectors. Attendees were updated on recent findings in the park and proposed conservation measures, while also providing feedback and recommendations.
Environment
National Climate Change Office Concludes Consultations on Climate Adaptation Efforts
A nationwide consultation exercise to identify climate adaptation priorities concluded in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, on January 29th. The final session, which covered the Belize District, supported the development of Belize’s Multi-sectoral National Adaptation Plan (MNAP). The consultations were led by the National Climate Change Office (NCCO) under the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Solid Waste Management, in partnership with consulting firm Metroeconomica, which facilitated the stakeholder sessions.
Community and Society
Over 100 Tons of Early Sargassum Cleared From San Pedro Beaches
San Pedro Town experienced an unusually early influx of sargassum, which began washing ashore on public beaches on Monday, January 26, 2026. The San Pedro Town Council immediately mobilized its cleanup team to respond.
