Conservation
Earth Hour observed in San Pedro
Every year, communities worldwide promote a healthier planet by teaching younger generations the importance of responsible citizenship. One such effort is Earth Hour, an annual event that encourages people to pause their activities and turn off non-essential lights and electrical appliances for one hour.
Environment
SPTC opens applications for sargassum mitigation efforts
As sargassum continues to cover coastlines and threaten marine ecosystems on Ambergris Caye, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has implemented a formal approval process for mitigation measures, including sargassum corrals and heavy machinery. The initiative, launched on March 23rd, aims to control the increasing inflow of seaweed affecting beaches, tourism, and daily life on the island.
Conservation
Trinational agreement signed to safeguard the Greater Maya Forest
Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico have signed a trilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in the conservation and sustainable management of the Greater Maya Forest, one of the largest and most significant tropical forest systems in the Americas. The agreement was signed on March 24, 2026, during a trinational workshop hosted by Belize from March 22nd to 28th in Placencia Village, Stann Creek District.
Conservation
Minister of Sustainable Development Addresses Ambergris Caye’s Development Concerns
Ongoing concerns on Ambergris Caye about large-scale coastal developments deemed unsustainable have prompted a response from the Minister of Sustainable Development, the Honorable Orlando Habet. He noted the need for proper planning to determine the level of development suitable for areas like Ambergris Caye and other coastal communities across the country.
Community and Society
3,000 Acres on Northern Ambergris Caye Set for Public Auction
A large parcel of land on northern Ambergris Caye, covering about 3,000 acres, will be auctioned in Belize City on Saturday, March 21st. The public notice was issued by the Barrow and Williams law firm.
Conservation
SACD Recognized for Conservation Work at Bacalar Chico
The Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD) won second place in the Conservation and Sustainability category of WWF’s 2025 Mangrove Friendly Development Challenge. The awards ceremony took place on March 14, 2026, at the Grand Resort Hotel in Belize City, honoring property owners, resorts, and community groups working to protect mangroves during development.
Conservation
ACES Wildlife Rescue Continues to Provide Critical Care for Injured Wildlife
ACES Wildlife Rescue in San Pedro has been responding to injured and displaced native animals across the Northern Cayes through a dedicated rehabilitation and release program that has served Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker since 2010. Operating as a non-profit permitted by the Belize Forest Department, the organization provides 24-hour emergency response and long-term care for wildlife affected by human activity and habitat loss.
Conservation
Stakeholders review climate adaptation priorities for San Pedro and Caye Caulker
The National Climate Change Office conducted the second round of validation consultations for Belize's Multi-Sectoral National Adaptation Plan (MNAP) on March 5th at El Fogon Restaurant in San Pedro Town. Project Manager Jasmine Tzul, Adaptation Officer Jose Marin, and National Consultant Joshua Romero led the event, which also featured an online presentation by Sascha Mahawelatanne Goonese, lead consultant from Metroeconomica in Spain. About 30 participants from various local sectors gathered to review initial adaptation priorities and offer feedback.
Conservation
Authorities Issue Warning After Multiple Manatees Killed by Boat Strikes
The Belize Fisheries Department issued an urgent warning on March 3, 2026, to all vessel operators after several recent manatee strandings across the country. In February, eight manatees were reported stranded in areas including Corozal, Belize City, Placencia, Gales Point, and Hopkins. Authorities confirmed that three of these cases—one adult male and two adult females, found on February 11th, 14th, and 16th—resulted from boat strikes.
Conservation
Belize Fisheries Department Urges Heightened Caution Following Multiple Manatee Strandings in February
The Belize Fisheries Department is issuing a serious and urgent reminder to all vessel operators following multiple manatee strandings recorded across the country during the month of February 2026. The Belize Marine Mammal Stranding Network documented eight manatee strandings in Corozal, Belize City, Placencia, Gales Point, and Hopkins. Of particular concern are three confirmed cases in which injuries consistent with vessel strikes were identified.
Environment
Opposition Emerges Over Proposed International Airport on Ambergris Caye
The proposed development of an international airport north of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, has sparked mixed reactions among residents. While some islanders support the initiative, others have begun voicing opposition. An online petition has been launched to gather signatures against the project, which would allow private jet owners to fly directly to Ambergris Caye from international destinations.
