分类： environment

In a decisive move to address forest degradation, the Belizean government has imposed a five-year moratorium on the issuance of Short-Term Forest Licenses and Petty Permits for tree cutting on national lands. Effective December 1, 2025, this sweeping measure aims to curb unsustainable extraction practices and protect the nation’s dwindling forest resources. The decision, spearheaded by the Minister in consultation with the Cabinet and supported by the Belize Forest Department, responds to alarming evidence of forest stock depletion, exacerbated by wildfires, illegal logging, and the overharvesting of young trees. While new permits on national lands will cease entirely, applications for tree harvesting on leased lands will face stricter scrutiny, prioritizing conservation. During the moratorium, the Forest Department will conduct a comprehensive assessment of forest stock, develop a National Forest Replenishment Plan, and promote sustainable alternatives like bamboo and reusable steel scaffolding. Officials emphasize that this pause will allow degraded forests to recover, enhance wildlife habitats, and bolster resilience against environmental threats, ultimately safeguarding Belize’s ecological and economic future.

As COP30, the thirtieth Conference of the Parties to the UN Climate Change Convention, commenced in Belem, Brazil, Belize’s delegation from the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change was present. However, a notable absence was Andre Perez, the Minister of the Blue Economy. In an exclusive interview in Caye Caulker, Perez explained his decision to skip the event, emphasizing a strategic approach to climate action. ‘I attended COP26 in Glasgow and gained valuable insights, but as a small island developing nation, we must be selective in our engagements,’ he stated. Perez highlighted the importance of prioritizing events that align with Belize’s environmental goals, such as the recent ocean’s conference in Marseille, which yielded significant outcomes. He expressed confidence in Belize’s representation at COP30, noting the presence of mayors from Belize City and San Pedro. Perez’s decision underscores a broader strategy to allocate limited resources effectively, ensuring Belize’s voice is heard where it matters most.

Recent months have seen coastal regions, particularly in areas like San Pedro, grappling with the overwhelming presence of sargassum—thick, brown seaweed mats that have inundated shorelines. This natural phenomenon has posed significant challenges for local communities and the tourism sector. However, a breakthrough emerged on Friday when the Department of the Environment (DOE) received a substantial donation of advanced equipment and software. This technological aid is set to revolutionize Belize’s ability to monitor and manage sargassum more efficiently. Andre Perez, Area Representative for Belize Rural South, emphasized the significance of this development. He acknowledged the severity of this year’s sargassum invasion, which has affected not only Belize but the entire Caribbean region. Perez highlighted that the new tools will enable authorities to track large sargassum mats traversing the Caribbean, allowing for a more strategic and proactive approach. Instead of reactive measures, such as beach cleanups, the technology will provide early warnings, enabling communities to prepare effectively. Perez described the ongoing struggle against sargassum as a ‘never-ending battle,’ but expressed optimism that this innovation will mark a turning point in the fight.

The proposed Silver Palms mega development in San Pedro, Belize, has ignited significant controversy due to its potential impact on one of the country’s most ecologically sensitive marine habitats. Approved in late 2024 after a Limited Level Environmental Study, the project bypassed public consultation and a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment, raising concerns among environmentalists, local officials, and the community. Andre Perez, Area Representative for Belize Rural South and Minister of the Blue Economy, has voiced strong opposition, emphasizing the area’s critical role in fish spawning and flyfishing. Perez criticized the lack of consultation with key stakeholders, including the Fisheries Department and NGOs like Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and questioned the project’s economic viability. He urged potential investors to reconsider, warning that the fragile ecosystem makes the development unsustainable. The controversy highlights the tension between economic development and environmental preservation in Belize’s coastal regions.

Belize’s ongoing struggle with sargassum seaweed has taken a significant turn with the introduction of advanced monitoring tools. This year, the country experienced one of its most severe sargassum crises, with vast amounts of seaweed inundating beaches, disrupting coastal ecosystems, and necessitating continuous cleanup efforts. However, a new initiative funded by the Government of Taiwan, in collaboration with the Central American Commission on Environment and Development, has provided Belize with cutting-edge technology to better manage this environmental challenge. The donation includes a drone, a laptop, and the Sargassum Forecasting Model (SAMtool), which utilizes satellite imagery and ocean current data to track and predict the movement of sargassum mats across the Caribbean. Andre Perez, Belize’s Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, expressed optimism about the new tools, stating that they will enable a more strategic and efficient response to the sargassum influx. ‘It’s a constant battle, but with this technology, we can approach it in a smarter way,’ Perez remarked. The initiative marks a crucial step forward in Belize’s efforts to mitigate the impact of sargassum on its coastal communities and marine ecosystems.

Belize has taken a significant step forward in addressing its recurring sargassum crisis with the Sargassum Task Force receiving cutting-edge monitoring tools. Earlier this year, the country faced one of its worst sargassum invasions, with tons of rotting seaweed inundating its pristine beaches. The influx disrupted tourism, local livelihoods, and marine ecosystems, prompting urgent action. Today, the Task Force unveiled a suite of advanced tools, including a drone, a laptop, and the Sargassum Forecasting Model (SAMtool), donated by the Department of the Environment. These tools are part of a broader regional initiative funded by the government of Taiwan, aimed at enhancing Belize’s ability to predict and manage sargassum outbreaks. Deputy Chief Environmental Officer Edgar Ek highlighted the collaborative efforts behind the project, involving the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation. SAMtool, a subscription-based digital platform, utilizes satellite imagery and ocean current forecasts to track sargassum movement, providing critical data on its trajectory and potential impact. Chief Meteorologist Ronald Gordon emphasized the tool’s role in strengthening national preparedness and response strategies. Tourism Officer Darcy Correa underscored the crisis’s broader implications, noting that sargassum not only affects tourism but also the livelihoods of coastal communities. With these new tools, Belize aims to improve early warning systems, support informed decision-making, and safeguard its coastal ecosystems and economy.

In a significant crackdown on environmental violations, four individuals have been formally charged with illegal logging activities near Doubloon Lagoon in the Orange Walk District. The incident, which unfolded on November 5, 2025, was brought to light by the Corozal Sustainable Future Initiative (CSFI) enforcement team. The team intercepted the group as they were unloading logwood posts from a red tractor into a white GMC truck. Notably, the men were unable to produce any valid permits or licenses authorizing the extraction or transportation of the wood.

Authorities swiftly seized the vehicles involved, along with a chainsaw, a tractor battery, and approximately 100 logwood posts as evidence. The accused, identified as Martin Rosado, Diego Santos, Chad Vargas, and Aldair Correa, have been charged under Section 19 of the Forest Act for the unlawful possession of forest produce.

This case follows closely on the heels of another illegal logging incident reported on November 2, 2025, where rangers from the Wildlife Conservation Society detained four individuals from Cotton Tree Village. The Forest Department has issued a stern reminder to the public about the legal ramifications of unauthorized logging. ‘Harvesting, transporting, or possessing forest produce without the necessary permits is a criminal offence,’ the department stated, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities to safeguard Belize’s precious forests.

Belize has emerged as a key player in the global effort to balance economic growth with marine conservation through the Blue Economy. Partnering with the African Union and the Global Water Partnership, Belize is hosting a groundbreaking knowledge exchange aimed at fostering sustainable ocean development. This initiative, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), focuses on practical solutions such as sustainable fisheries, marine spatial planning, and innovative financing mechanisms. Two major projects—the African Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Blue Economy Project and PROCARIBE+—are driving this collaboration. The exchange aims to share best practices and develop policies that ensure the Blue Economy benefits both people and the planet. Carlie Gillett, Project Officer for the Blue Economy, emphasized the importance of mutual learning between projects to advance sustainable fisheries and marine planning. Sonia Gautreau of the UNDP highlighted the role of the International Waters Learning Exchange and Resources Network (IW Learn) in facilitating global collaboration. For African SIDS, the priority is establishing robust policies and frameworks to scale the Blue Economy across the continent. Shamiso Kumbrai, representing the African SIDS Project, noted the significance of on-the-ground implementation, which Belize exemplifies. Samir Rosado of the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) underscored Belize’s vision of a healthy, resilient ocean that supports both economic prosperity and cultural well-being. The knowledge exchange, set to conclude later this week, promises to influence ocean policy and sustainable development strategies worldwide.