Community and Society
Sargassum continues to impact Ambergris Caye beaches; where are the skimmers?
The seasonal influx of Sargassum is currently impacting the beaches of San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye. Hoteliers and restaurant owners are working to keep their areas free of brown algae. At the same time, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has activated its Sargassum response plan to manage the incoming mats of seaweed. However, residents report that they have yet to see the Sargassum skimmers acquired last year, which are designed to capture the seaweed from the sea before it reaches the shore.
Community and Society
Fishermen and tour guides protest dredging and overwater structures at Cayo Rosario
On Tuesday, March 25th, a powerful and peaceful protest took place in the waters surrounding Cayo Rosario, a small island located within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve off the northwest coast of Ambergris Caye, Belize. Over 30 boats gathered for a united demonstration against the proposed dredging of the seabed and the construction of over-the-water structures, which have been contentious issues for years.
Community and Society
San Pedro observes its annual Earth Hour with a fun night at the park
Every year, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) advocates for a safer planet and raises awareness about the importance of responsible citizenship through its annual educational event, Earth Hour. This year, the event was held on Saturday, March 22nd, at Boca del Rio Beach Park and featured fun activities, including a bonfire, s'mores, and an Earth Hour-themed glow stick choreography competition.
Environment
Area Representative responds to Illegal seabed excavation
Following a social media video posted on Sunday, March 16th, revealing illegal seabed excavation near Ambergris Caye, Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez issued a stern statement condemning the act and pledging to take legal action against those involved. Recently re-elected and assigned to the Blue Economy and Marine Conservation Ministry, Perez emphasized the potential environmental and economic consequences this illegal activity could have on his constituency.
Conservation
Belize Gears Up for Reef Week 2025: “Building Resilience from Ridge to Reef!”
Local non-governmental organizations, tourism partners, and business allies are coming together to celebrate the 14th Annual Reef Week from Saturday, March 15th to Saturday, March 22nd, 2025. Under the theme “Building Resilience from Ridge to Reef!”, this week-long event will highlight the Belize Barrier Reef’s critical role in the national economy, environmental health, and Belizean identity.
Community and Society
San Pedro Town Council activates Sargassum Response Plan
As the easterly winds start to blow over San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye, seasonal mats of Sargassum seaweed have begun to wash up on the island's shoreline. In response, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has initiated a plan to address the current influx of this brown seaweed. On March 11th, they announced their initiative, which has already resulted in the removal of more than 20 truckloads of Sargassum following the recent influx.
Environment
Sargassum products being developed for climate resilience
A partnership involving the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM), the New Zealand Foreign Affairs and Trade Aid Programme, and Plant and Food Research Limited is collaborating to address the increasing influx of Sargassum in affected Caribbean countries each year. This project aims to mitigate the environmental and economic impacts of this specific seaweed by creating inclusive value chains from the brown algae.
Conservation
Preserving mangroves is essential for juvenile fish
Mangrove habitats in Belize are vital for juvenile fish, serving as essential nurseries supporting marine biodiversity and local fisheries. Often called the "nurseries of the sea," these coastal ecosystems provide shelter and food for young fish species, allowing them to thrive before migrating to open waters as adults. The complex root systems of mangroves create an environment that protects these juvenile fish from predators while offering plenty of foraging opportunities.
