Environment
Mosquito situation on the island prompts residents to consider aerial spraying of malathion
Some island residents are pitching the idea of spraying malathion aerially to ensure the current mosquito situation doesn't worsen. There has been no response from relevant health authorities regarding this suggestion.
Community and Society
Local tour operator is beautifying San Pedro Town during lockdown
The team from Xsite Sailing hope that by beautifying the various landmarks and neglected areas around town, there will be more pride and upkeep.
Business & Economy
Lobster Season officially opens; Fishermen at odds with Fishing Cooperatives for proposed low prices
While the lobster fishing season has begun, fishermen are at odds with the market price being set by cooperatives. For now, lobster is going for as low as $15 a pound.
Conservation
Incident in the Caracol Area of the Chiquibul National Forest
On Sunday, June 7, 2020, at about 6:00 p.m., Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) Forest Rangers were conducting a routine exercise mounting cameras to monitor the poaching of endangered scarlet macaws 1.2 kilometres east of the border, in area of Caracol, in the Chiquibul National Park. During this exercise they had an encounter with two poachers which resulted in an FCD Ranger firing his weapon in self-defense, causing a non-lethal injury to one individual who was captured and detained for illegal entry and poaching of protected wildlife. The other person who was his companion fled.
Environment
World Oceans Day Statement from the Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development
As we celebrate World Oceans Day, Belize is reminded of the central role our marine environment and resources play in contributing to our livelihoods, people, and economy. The Government of Belize along with its partners and stakeholders continue to make great strides and success in the establishment and implementation of programs and systems to promote the long-term sustainable use of our limited and fragile marine resources, the protection of our marine environment, and the promotion of nature-based approaches for healthy oceans.
Conservation
Recycle San Pedro Belize relocates to DFC Area
Now located in the DFC Area, the Recycle San Pedro Belize team is excited to work on making products, taking advantage of their larger space.
Conservation
SIDS DOCK and GRID-Arendal announce strategic partnership for sustainable use and management of marine resources in small islands and low-lying developing countries
SIDS DOCK, the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Sustainable Energy and Climate Resilience Organization, has signed an agreement with GRID-Arendal to collaborate on the promotion of nature-based solutions and technologies for the sustainable use and management of marine resources to support the economic and livelihoods systems of the populations of small islands and low-lying developing countries. The signing ceremony took place on Thursday, 14 May 2020, by means of a virtual conference between representatives in New York City and Norway, as a way to contain the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Business & Economy
Hol Chan Channel to remain closed till June 16th due to Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease
All corals observed with Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease, specifically at the Hol Chan channel, were administered antibiotics through a CoreRx base. A month will be required before HCMR can be certain that the treatment has worked, or if additional treatment will be needed.