Department of the Environment

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 Department of the Environment (DOE), within the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Solid Waste Management held a meeting with all key regulatory government agencies to discuss the Cayo Rosario Project and the concerns raised by the public. Key government agencies included the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, Fisheries Department, Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Forest Department, Lands and Surveys Department, Mining Unit, Central Building Authority, and Belize Port Authority.

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.

The Royal Kahal Beach Resort remains closed after three American guests were found dead in their room on February 22nd. The deceased, Imane Mallah (24), Kaoutar Naqqad (23), and Wafae El Arar (26), were of Moroccan descent and from Revere City, Massachusetts, USA. The cause of their deaths is still under investigation, with one focus being the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.

San Pedro Town is ramping up its efforts to tackle improper waste disposal through a comprehensive ticketing system targeted at businesses and, soon, residences. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to improve waste management enforcement and encourage community participation in cleanup efforts.

On Saturday, January 18th, hundreds of islanders joined thousands nationwide for National Clean-up Day, organized by the Department of the Environment. In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, various groups focused on cleaning different areas, including the southern part of town, downtown San Pedro, the Boca del Rio beach area, the northern road, and the Bacalar Chico sea turtle nesting beaches in the north part of the island.

Press Release - Belmopan, Belize – October 7, 2024. The Department of the Environment (DOE), under the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change,...

An official ceremony occurred on Friday, June 21st, to inaugurate the Department of the Environment (DOE) office in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The office space will also accommodate the Belize Forest Department and will not only serve Ambergris Caye but Caye Caulker and Caye Chapel. The event was held at the Boca del Rio Beach Park and consisted of a brief ceremony attended by officials and guests. Area Representative and Minister of the Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management, the Honourable Andre Perez, Minister of Sustainable Development, the Honourable Orlando Habet, Chief Environmental Officer Anthony Mai, and Councilor Jose Castellanos were present to officiate this significant milestone for the island.