Tag:
Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation
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.
Community and Society
Island residents and stakeholders express opposition to overwater development at Cayo Rosario
Residents and visitors of San Pedro Town gathered at the Lions Den on Tuesday, April 8th, to discuss the escalating environmental concerns surrounding the controversial development project on Cayo Rosario. The meeting was led by local activist Elito Arceo and supported by environmental groups such as the Belize Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, Oceana, and Ambergris Caye Citizens for Sustainable Development (ACCSD). The purpose of the gathering was to address the dredging and mangrove destruction threatening the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and to outline strategies to protect this ecologically significant area.
Conservation
Belize hosts inaugural Blue Forum, engaging stakeholders in the marine sector
The Government of Belize kicked off April with the Blue Forum, an event that brought together stakeholders from the marine and conservation sectors. This event took place at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City starting on April 1st. Its purpose was to promote discussions on science-driven ocean management, encourage collaboration, and strengthen Belize’s blue economy.