Tag:
Belize Barrier Reef System
Conservation
Stakeholders Condemn Dredging Activity Near Mexico Rocks
Dredging activity observed near the Mexico Rocks recreational zone, located within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, has sparked outrage and concern among environmentalists and tourism stakeholders. They are alarmed at the potential impacts such activity may have on the sensitive marine ecosystem and are demanding clarity regarding the project's authorization and the environmental safeguards in place. Mexico Rocks is recognized as a vital component of the Belize Barrier Reef System. To bring further attention to the issue, the San Pedro Tour Guide Association called a stakeholder meeting on Thursday, June 19th, to collectively voice their concerns.
Community and Society
Hol Chan Marine Reserve Opens Marine Education Center
On Wednesday, May 14th, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve officially opened its new Marine Education Center, located on the ground floor of its headquarters in downtown San Pedro. The long-anticipated event welcomed a diverse group of attendees, including primary school students, representatives from the Belize Tourism Board, tour guides, local leaders, and specially invited guests. The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which marked the official opening of the education center to both guests and the public.
Government
Department of Environment participates in International Plastics Treaty negotiations
Belize enacted the Environmental Protection (Pollution from Plastics) Regulations in 2020, which prohibits the importation of single-use plastic bags and Styrofoam products. The aim of the legislation is to protect human health and the environment from the adverse effects of plastic pollution. The Department of the Environment, within the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change, regulates the provisions of the law and is currently evaluating its implementation.
Community and Society
Reef restoration continues at Turneffe Atoll following Hurricane Lisa via MAR Fund Insurance
On November 2nd, Category 1 Hurricane Lisa battered a section of the Belize Barrier Reef system by Turneffe Atoll as the storm moved towards mainland Belize. The damage caused to the fragile corals became a concern as it was unknown where the resources would come from to assess and restore the affected areas. That problem was soon resolved after a $175,000 payout under the Mesoamerican Reef (MAR) Insurance Programme was issued to finance an immediate reef response.
Conservation
Oceana warns about possible seismic testing in Belize; organizes signature collection drive
At a press conference in Belize City on Thursday, November 17th, Oceana Belize announced the commencement of a countrywide signature collection drive to trigger a national referendum regarding oil exploration in Belizean waters. Vice-President Janelle Chanona said the decision was made following a conversation with Prime Minister Honourable Dr. John Briceño in September. She claims it confirmed the current administration’s intention to proceed with seismic testing in Belizean waters with prior approval from the public. However, GOB clarifies that it has not entered into any agreements for seismic studies nor for oil exploration in offshore areas.
Community and Society
Reef Week San Pedro kicks off with a swim to the reef challenge
Twenty-three participants kicked off the annual Reef Week San Pedro with an early morning swim challenge to the reef.
Environment
Parents encouraged to sign up children for the Coral Reef Ed-Ventures Summer Camp
Celebrating its 20th year, the Coral Reef Ed-Ventures Summer Camp is aimed at promoting the conservation of the Belize Barrier Reef System by teaching children on the importance of coral and marine ecosystems.
Conservation
Hol Chan Marine Reserve Reef Week 2018 opens with “Swim to the Reef”
Bright and early at 6AM, islanders gathered at Amigos Del Mar Dive Shop dock, dressed in snorkeling gear and ready to swim to the reef and back.