Tag:
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Community and Society
Sargassum Harvesters Prove Useful, but Community Partnership Still Needed
Record-breaking sargassum blooms affected coastal communities across Belize in 2025, including San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. According to regional data, more than 37.5 million tons of the brown seaweed were recorded in the Caribbean this year, placing heavy strain on shoreline management efforts nationwide.
Community and Society
ACCSD Calls for Transparency and Community Engagement on Hol Chan and Other Development Issues
A public meeting was held on December 16th at the San Pedro Lions Den to discuss concerns surrounding unsustainable developments and the management and protection of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. The meeting, which brought together tour guides, tourism stakeholders, and other partners from the tourism sector, was organized by the Ambergris Caye Citizens for Sustainable Development (ACCSD). During the gathering, members expressed concern that certain decisions by island authorities are threatening both the marine environment and the livelihoods of those who depend on it. The group announced plans to engage local authorities at a follow-up meeting scheduled for next month.
Community and Society
For the love of the sea: Elito Arceo recognized as an Ocean Hero
Islander and long-time marine advocate Jose “Elito” Arceo has been honored for his dedication to the sea and his decades-long fight to protect Belize’s marine resources. The proud San Pedrano, along with fellow Belizean ocean defender Dennis Garbutt, received Oceana Belize’s Ocean Hero Award on December 4th. The recognition highlights the urgent need to safeguard Belize’s marine environment, and both honorees hope their work inspires the next generation of conservation advocates.
Business & Economy
Investors Outline Local Benefits and Environmental Plans for Cayo Rosario Project
The proposed Six Senses luxury resort at Cayo Rosario has generated both excitement and concern among residents, environmental groups, and the wider public. Questions have been raised about the project’s environmental impact, compliance with regulations, and the potential economic benefits for Ambergris Caye and Belize.
Sports
Competition Tightens in Inter-Office Football League
The Inter-Office Football Tournament continues to draw football fans to the Ambergris Stadium every weekend. The competition, divided into Groups A and B, has delivered exciting matches and a shift in the standings, with several new teams now taking the lead.
Sports
Inter-Office Football Tournament Rolls Into Fourth Week
Football action at Ambergris Stadium continues to draw fans as the Inter-Office Football Tournament enters its fourth week. Sixteen teams are competing, with the next round of matches scheduled for September 27th and 28th. Games begin at 6PM on Saturday and 5PM on Sunday.
Sports
Top Teams Emerge in 2025 Inter-Office Football Tournament
After two weekends of spirited competition, the Inter-Office Football Tournament continues to unite football fans at the Ambergris Stadium. The tournament features 16 teams divided into two groups, A and B. Following the matches held on September 14th and 15th, several teams have taken the lead.
Business & Economy
San Pedro Businesses Struggle Amid Record Sargassum Influx
This year has brought record levels of Sargassum to the Caribbean, with unprecedented amounts of the brown algae affecting coastlines across the region, including Belize. On Ambergris Caye, the heavy influx has forced some beachfront businesses in San Pedro Town to shorten operating hours, while others have extended seasonal closures until October, when the seaweed is expected to subside.
