Department of the Environment

The Department of the Environment (DOE) officially launched Belize’s National Strategy and Action Plan for the Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm & Minamata (BRS&M) Conventions and the Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC) at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. Developed with support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Strategy aims to strengthen national capacity for sound chemicals and waste management. The event also introduced the Draft Integrated Chemicals Management Bill, a key step toward modernizing governance in this sector.

For the last few months, the surge of sargassum along Belize’s coast has triggered mounting health concerns, especially in San Pedro Town. Beaches once drew crowds, but they now face a relentless assault from brown, decomposing mats of seaweed, posing not only environmental and economic threats but an escalating risk to public health.

Belize officially established a National Environmental Enforcement Task Force as of June 24th, signaling a significant shift in the country's attitude toward environmental preservation following years of inconsistent enforcement. The new task force, overseen by the Department of the Environment (DOE), aims to tighten the enforcement of environmental standards nationwide, reacting to rising complaints from environmentalists and communities about uncontrolled development and pollution.

The Central Building Authority (CBA) has lifted a stop order previously restricting the construction of over-the-water structures on the small island of Cayo Rosario, located off the northwest coast of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. With the stop order lifted, the project can now also include the construction of a pier (arrival dock). The original stop order, issued in April, cited the developers' failure to submit the required documentation and obtain the necessary building permits.

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.

The Department of the Environment (DOE), within the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Solid Waste Management, hosted a stakeholder meeting today to update Belize’s National Wastewater Policy. The meeting includes partners from the government, private sector, academia, and civil society, all working together to improve wastewater management and environmental health in Belize.

The Department of the Environment (DOE) partnered with customs brokers through a two-day workshop held in Belize City on May 14 and 15, 2025, to enhance environmental compliance for imported goods. This initiative forms part of the DOE’s broader strategy to align trade practices with national legislation and international environmental agreements, including the Montreal Protocol and the Basel Convention.

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.”