Environment

On April 22nd, an incident suggesting a mass stranding was initially reported as pilot whales occurred near Drown Caye off the coast of Belize City. Authorities later clarified that the animals were likely false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens), as they closely resemble pilot whales. Over 30 whales were involved, prompting an emergency response.

Caye Caulker Village, once a sleepy fishing village, has undergone a significant transformation due to the rise of tourism. A recent study by Lucas Julian Martinez from Ohio State University, U.S.A., investigated the impacts of seafront privatization on coastal access in Caye Caulker. The study highlights the transformation's economic benefits and challenges to the local community.

The Mangrove Friendly Development Challenge, an inspiring competition organized by the World Wildlife Fund, celebrated and awarded innovative projects that promote mangrove conservation in the Cayes. The Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association (TASA) and El Ben Cabanas from Caye Caulker were among the winners. TASA was recognized in the Conservation and Sustainability Value category, while El Ben Cabanas received an award in the Aesthetics and Creativity category. This recognition highlights TASA's and El Ben Cabanas' commitment to conservation and their successful efforts to emphasize the importance of marine ecosystems, particularly the protection of mangrove forests.

On Friday, April 11th, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve held a ceremony to officially launch its Sargassum Relief Project at Boca Del Rio Park in San Pedro Town. This marks a significant step in combating the ongoing sargassum invasion affecting the island's coastline. A key highlight of the event was the presentation and demonstration of two state-of-the-art modified harvesters designed to collect and remove sargassum efficiently before it reaches the shore.

The Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD) recently received a grant to enhance enforcement efforts across four protected areas in Belize. This generous investment from the Belize Nature Conservation Foundation (BNCF) will allow SACD personnel to improve the monitoring and management of the Bacalar Chico National Park in northern Ambergris Caye.

Concerned citizens along with tourism and conservation stakeholders reiterate our call for the protection of our livelihoods and local economy. The recent joint press release issued by the Department of the Environment via the Government Press Office continues to confirm the lack of transparency from key government agencies. The statement from relevant agencies also highlights the lack of coordination between the government units responsible for the various permits that are required for such projects. But perhaps most alarming, is that despite conceding a lack of communication and consultation with stakeholders and beneficiaries of this protected area, the community’s public outcries are being dismissed as “emotional.”

The Government of Belize kicked off April with the Blue Forum, an event that brought together stakeholders from the marine and conservation sectors. This event took place at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City starting on April 1st. Its purpose was to promote discussions on science-driven ocean management, encourage collaboration, and strengthen Belize’s blue economy.

On Wednesday, April 2nd, the Honorable Andre Perez, Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, led a site visit to San Pedro’s garbage transfer station to discuss a sustainable and efficient waste disposal strategy. He was accompanied by San Pedro Mayor Gualberto ‘Wally’ Nuñez, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change, Honorable Ramiro Ramirez, and his Chief Executive Officer, Milagro Matus.