Tag:
Department of the Environment
Environment
Government Enforces Tough Penalties for Improper Wastewater Disposal
On November 20, 2025, the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Solid Waste Management, in collaboration with the Department of the Environment (DOE) and the Ministry of Health and Wellness, issued a strong reminder to the public about the dangers and legal consequences of improper wastewater disposal. The nationwide notice highlights that untreated wastewater, including sewage, greywater, industrial effluent, and other liquid waste, poses serious risks to public health and the environment.
Environment
Area Representative weighs in on Silver Palm development in northern Ambergris Caye
A significant new development in northern Ambergris Caye, dubbed Silver Palm, has raised concerns among environmentalists, residents, and local authorities. The proposed community project, planned on a 237-acre island northwest of Ambergris Caye, has come under scrutiny after moving forward without an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and despite reported objections from the Belize Fisheries Department and the Ministry of Blue Economy. Area Representative and Minister of Blue Economy, Honorable Andre Perez, said island residents were not consulted and argued that such a project is not suitable for this environmentally sensitive area.
Environment
Government acquires cutting-edge equipment for better Sargassum monitoring
The Sargassum season this year was one of the worst on record, with areas such as San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker severely affected by massive amounts of the brown seaweed washing onto shorelines. Although the influx has significantly reduced for now, the next season is expected to begin early in 2026. To better prepare for the recurring phenomenon, the National Sargassum Task Force has acquired new monitoring and management equipment. On November 7th, the task force received a drone, a laptop, and a sophisticated Sargassum forecasting tool, donated through the SICA Azul Project, an initiative promoting clean communities, in collaboration with the Republic of China (Taiwan).
Community and Society
Pre-bid session held with contractors for San Mateo pedestrian bridge
For several months, stakeholders have discussed a project to deliver essential services to the San Mateo subdivision. The plan, which includes multiple infrastructure upgrades, has received the green light following consultations with the San Pedro Town Council and the central government’s procurement team. Among the scheduled works is the construction of a pedestrian bridge linking San Mateo and the Boca del Rio subdivision. On Thursday, September 26th, a pre-bid meeting was held in San Pedro Town with prospective contractors, during which the procurement team outlined the application process.
Government
Belize Launches National Strategy to Strengthen Chemicals and Waste Governance
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.
Health
Sargassum Surge in San Pedro Raises Public Health Concerns
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.
Conservation
Government Forms Task Force to Strengthen Environmental Enforcement
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.
Conservation
CBA lifts stop order on Cayo Rosario over the water structures
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.