Tag:
Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation
Conservation
Government Temporarily Halts Dredging in Sensitive Coastal Areas
Following outrage from activists and environmental groups across the country, including those in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, over what they describe as unsustainable development practices such as dredging, the government has decided to temporarily halt the activity in sensitive areas.
Community and Society
Students test reef knowledge at Hol Chan Reef Week trivia competition
Leilany Cruz of Isla Bonita Elementary School captured first place at the Hol Chan Reef Week 2026 Kids Trivia Competition held on Wednesday, May 20th, at the San Pedro Lion’s Den. After three rounds and two tie-breaker rounds, Adalee Novelo of New Horizon Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) School secured second place, while Justin Lara of San Pedro Roman Catholic (RC) School placed third. The event, hosted by Hol Chan Marine Reserve as part of its Reef Week activities, brought together 14 primary school students from San Pedro and Caye Caulker to test their knowledge of Belize’s marine environment.
Conservation
US$4 Million Initiative Launched to Combat Coastal Erosion Across Belize
Several coastal communities across Belize, including the Cayes, continue to battle the growing threat of erosion. To address the ongoing issue, the Government of Belize has launched a new initiative, “Enhancing the Resilience of Belize’s Coastal Communities to Climate Change Impacts,” with a US$4 million investment. The project, led by the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT), aims to strengthen the climate resilience of coastal communities, ecosystems, and related infrastructure.
Government
$1.9 billion 2026–2027 national budget debated in the National Assembly
From March 23rd to 25th, the proposed 2026–2027 national budget was debated in the National Assembly (House of Representatives) in Belmopan. Prime Minister John Briceño introduced the $1.9 billion budget on March 10th under the theme “Budgeting for Belizean Prosperity.” The proposal highlights what the government describes as strong economic performance, including a historic low unemployment rate of 2.0% and reduced inflation, along with reported gains in health, tourism, and conservation. During the debate, Leader of the Opposition Honorable Tracy Taegar-Panton acknowledged some achievements but challenged several of the government’s claims.
Politics and Government
Minister Perez Sets Sustainability and Growth Targets for Blue Economy
Belize Rural South Area Representative and Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, Honourable Andre Perez, has outlined his priorities for a second term in office. He said the focus will be on marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, and economic diversification across Belize’s waters.
Environment
Reports of Siete Canales Lands Being Subdivided; Minister Confirms Parcels to Be Vested in Hol Chan
Concerns have surfaced over reports that lands in the Siete Canales area, including four small islets, are being surveyed and subdivided for private individuals. The claims, widely circulated on social media, raised alarm because the area forms part of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a site considered vital to the marine ecosystem.
Community and Society
Garbage Buildup Threatens San Pedro’s Tourist Appeal
San Pedro Town is facing a growing environmental and public health crisis as persistent garbage accumulation threatens the island’s image as a premier tourist destination. With mounting complaints from residents and visitors, local authorities are escalating enforcement efforts and issuing warnings that noncompliance will be met with fines and legal consequences.
Community and Society
Public Notice: Closure of the Queen Conch Fishing Season
The Belize Fisheries Department hereby informs all fishers and the public that, in accordance with Statutory Instrument No. 54 of 2012, the Honourable Andre Perez, Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, will declare the Queen Conch (Strombus gigas) fishery closed at the close of business on May 25, 2025. This is necessary due to the realization of the Queen Conch production quota for the 2024-2025 fishing season.