Conservation
Belize Fisheries Convenes First National Shark Working Group Meeting
The Belize Fisheries Department, under the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, convened the first meeting of the National Shark Working Group (NSWG) on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Grand Resort and Residences in Belize City. The meeting brought together scientists, policymakers, and key stakeholders to advance marine conservation and promote the sustainable management of Belize’s aquatic resources.
Conservation
Local authorities say heavy equipment transported to north Ambergris Caye has no permits
Following images shared on social media on Thursday, January 22nd, showing heavy equipment being transported to northern Ambergris Caye, the Office of the Area Representative, Honorable Andre Perez, and the Hol Chan Marine Reserve submitted reports to several environmental government authorities, including the Prime Minister. According to officials, the transportation of the construction equipment was carried out without the proper permits or authorizations. On Friday, January 23rd, Perez said the individuals responsible for transporting the equipment were unable to produce any permits, and as a result, the equipment must be removed from the area.
Conservation
National Climate Consultations to Address Climate Risks Affecting Belize
The Government of Belize has launched a series of National Consultations to strengthen the country’s response to climate change, with a particular focus on vulnerable coastal communities and key economic sectors, such as tourism. The consultations, taking place from January 19 to January 30, 2026, are being led by the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Solid Waste Management, through the National Climate Change Office (NCCO). The process forms part of Belize’s National Adaptation Planning efforts, which aim to reduce climate risks and improve long-term resilience nationwide.
Community and Society
San Pedro Tackles Garbage Issues Through Enforcement and Community Cleanups
San Pedro continues to grapple with ongoing challenges in garbage and waste management as rapid development, population growth, and increased tourism place added pressure on the island’s infrastructure. From overflowing drums and illegal dumping to improperly placed construction materials, improper disposal has become a visible concern in both residential and commercial areas. In response, the San Pedro Town Council, along with community groups and volunteers, has intensified efforts through structured collection schedules, enforcement campaigns, public education, and island-wide cleanups to protect public health, the environment, and the island’s tourism-driven economy.
Community and Society
Belize Sargassum Task Force Prepares for 2026 Sargassum Season
The Government of Belize, through the National Sargassum Task Force (STF), has begun early preparations for the 2026 sargassum season, focusing on five priority coastal areas: San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Seine Bight, Hopkins, and Placencia. The initiative launched on January 21st and is co-chaired by the Ministry of Tourism, Youth, Sports, and Diaspora Relations and the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation.
Conservation
DOE Introduces New Ozone Protection Regulations
The Department of the Environment (DOE) is rolling out a new environmental policy that may affect the importation of certain items, including refrigerators and...
Environment
Garbage Buildup at Transfer Station Raises Health Concerns in San Pedro
Residents living south of San Pedro Town have raised concerns over large piles of garbage accumulating at the island’s solid waste transfer station. Residents also reported a strong foul odor emanating from the facility, which they say is beginning to affect their daily routines. A representative from the island’s transfer station confirmed that management is aware of the situation and is working to address it promptly.
Environment
Secret Beach to Undergo Beach Rehabilitation Project in 2026
Secret Beach, one of Ambergris Caye’s most popular tourist destinations, is slated to undergo a beach rehabilitation project in 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to address shoreline erosion on the island. Area Representative Hon. Andre Perez confirmed that erosion has been identified at Secret Beach, located northwest of San Pedro Town, prompting plans for a beach nourishment programme. The area continues to attract heavy visitor traffic, particularly during peak tourism periods.
Environment
Restoring San Pedro’s Beaches Amid Persistent Erosion and Sargassum Challenges
Beach restoration efforts in San Pedro Town are progressing slowly as authorities contend with a long-standing erosion problem that has been intensified by increasing sargassum influxes. Environmental consultant Valentine Rosado says the situation requires sustainable, science-based solutions rather than short-term fixes.
Conservation
Belize’s Hidden Climate Treasure: Why Mangrove & Seagrass “Blue Carbon” Matters More Than Ever
Walk along any stretch of Belize’s coast, and you’ll see them: roots like stilts, leaves shining in the sun, small fish darting in and out. Mangroves are the backbone of our marine environment—and Belize has lots of them.
Conservation
WTO Funding Strengthens Belize’s Push for Sustainable Fisheries
Belize has received a US$300,000 grant from the World Trade Organization (WTO) Fish Fund to support the Building Legal Understanding and Enforcement Capacity for Fisheries Subsidies Reform in Belize (BLUE-CAP) Project. The grant, announced on November 27, will help work led by the Directorate General for Foreign Trade, the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, the Fisheries Department, and the High Seas Fisheries Unit, in partnership with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM). Approved during the WTO Fish Fund steering committee meeting held on November 18–19, 2025, the project is part of a first-round disbursement of US$2.9 million awarded to 26 developing countries.
