Community and Society
Sargassum; out of sight but not out of mind
Waves of Sargassum that washed up in large mats on the shores of many countries within the Caribbean, southern Mexico, and Belize, have significantly decreased, giving way to clear coastlines with beautiful sandy beaches.
Environment
Hol Chan Marine Reserve bans motorized watercraft within Secret Beach
Motorized watercraft (small boats, motorized paddleboards) and recreational equipment of that nature are no longer allowed to operate within the Secret Beach area, which is within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR).
Environment
Oceana Belize and Coalition for Sustainable Fisheries to commit over two million dollars to assist fisheries’ transition from gillnets
Oceana Belize and the Belize Coalition for Sustainable Fisheries (CSF) have committed via letters of intent to the Government of Belize (GOB) over two million dollars to assist Belizean fisheries transition from gillnet use in Belize’s waters. Both Oceana and the Coalition require that the GOB take the necessary legal steps in 2019 to declare a ban on gillnets at the beginning of 2020.
Community and Society
One year later: Organizers reflect on BIG GARBAGE CLEAN UP Campaign
It has been one year since the San Pedro Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (SP BTIA) along with the American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES) and the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) organized the biggest clean-up campaign on the island to date. Held from November 9 to 12, 2018, the clean-up campaign aimed to raise awareness on the improper garbage disposal on Ambergris Caye.
Environment
HCMR and Ramon’s Dive Shop guides assist turtle in distress
On Friday, November 8th Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) was unable to save a distressed sea turtle found South of San Pedro Town by Ramon’s Village Resort Dive Shop tour guides, the turtle had air accumulated in its intestines. Said air was removed with the assistance of HCMR, and the turtle was released into the water.
Environment
Recycling for a worthy cause; Handbags made from recycled dog food sacks
Island residents continue to find ways to clean up Ambergris Caye, and the most recent initiative is to make handbags from discarded dog food bags. Championing the project is Lara Goldman of 12 Belize Boutique, who makes the bags and markets them at the San Pedro Animal Hospital and her boutique.
Environment
Aerated Septic systems now required for businesses operating at Secret Beach
As Secret Beach on the north-west coast of Ambergris Caye continues to develop into a popular destination for tourists and Belizeans alike, concerns for the surrounding natural environment have prompted local authorities to set measures to make businesses more environmentally friendly.
Environment
Mining Unit addresses irregular dredging on Ambergris Caye
Over the past weeks, dredging has been ongoing near the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, within the vicinity of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR). While these dredging projects, mainly for sand, have permits and one is under the consent of The San Pedro Town Council, a few irregularities have caught the attention of the Mining Unit in the Ministry of Natural Resources. The Unit, which is responsible for allowing dredging, is addressing alleged reports that no silt curtains are being installed within these areas as required. Failure to comply with such regulation can lead to fines or even the revocation of permits previously granted.