DOCSLIB.ORG

Examining the Belize Audubon Society's Management of Prote…

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text

Load more

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This was the first wholly-international Master’s Project through the School of Natural Resources and Environment (SNRE). Each of the six team members conducted research in Belize in 1999. Much of this project’s success is due to the numerous organizations and individuals who have supported this project from its inception. We would like to thank the various funding sources who made overseas research for six students possible: the Prentice Foundation, the Inter-American Foundation, SNRE Alumni Incentive Program and the Masters Project Stipend Program, the Rackham School of Graduate Studies, and the Office of the Provost at the University of Michigan. We also wish to thank Professor Terry Brown of SNRE, who supported this project in its early stages and provided logistical support for the preliminary trip to Belize. This project would not have been possible without our client, the Belize Audubon Society, who provided information, resources, staff time, and a supportive environment in which to work. We owe a great debt to the countless local consultants who provided information and insight to this project through more than 250 interviews in Belize. Without their willingness to talk with us, this project would never have materialized. We also wish to thank our faculty advisor, Dr. Steve Brechin, who has given us support, guidance, and encouragement. i TABLE OF CONTENTS Abstract iii Frequently Used Terms iv Chapter 1: Executive Summary 1 Chapter 2: Introduction 6 Chapter 3: Methodology 19 Chapter 4: National Conservation Policy 20 Chapter 5: International Environmental Law 43 Chapter 6: Organizational Analysis 64 Chapter 7: Environmental Education 99 Chapter 8: Ecotourism 117 Chapter 9: Communities 133 Chapter 10: Conclusions 173 Appendices (1a – 6c) 179 Literature Cited 210 ii ABSTRACT Belize is a small Central American country with a largely intact natural resource base. It hosts a tremendous array of biologically diversity, and due to its historically low population density and political stability, has not suffered the ecological damage that other Central American countries have. With much assistance in the past two decades from the international community, conservation initiatives in Belize have been steadily growing. Local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have played a major role in conservation, as the government often lacks sufficient resources and population growth and economic development are on the rise. The Belize Audubon Society (BAS) is the oldest and largest conservation NGO in Belize, and unique in that it manages eight public protected areas for the government. This project examined BAS’ management of protected areas, looking at six critical areas: national policy, international policy and law, organizational analysis, environmental education, ecotourism, and communities. The goals of this project are to develop recommendations and guidelines that BAS can use to develop its own integrated and comprehensive protected-areas policy. While the focus of the project was on protected-areas management, the recommendations have broader implications for the organization as a whole. iii FREQUENTLY USED TERMS AGM Annual General Meeting ANDA Association of National Development Agencies BACONGO Belize Alliance of Conservation NGOs BAS Belize Audubon Society BHNP Blue Hole National Park BOD Board of Directors BTB Belize Tourism Board BTGA Belize Tourism Guide Association BTIA Belize Tourism Industry Association CBC Community-based Conservation CBD Convention on Biological Diversity CBWS Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary CTWS Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary CZMU Coastal Zone Management Unit DOE Department of Environment EE Environmental Education EI Environmental Interpretation EPA Environmental Protection Act EU European Union (European Community) GEF Global Environment Facility GNP Guanacaste National Park GOB The Government of Belize HMCNM Half Moon Caye Natural Monument IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature MOU Memorandum of Understanding NEAC National Environmental Appraisal Committee NEAP National Environmental Action Plan NPASP National Protected Areas Systems Plan NPSA National Parks System Act NPPC National Parks Policy Committee NGO Non-Governmental Organization PA protected area PAM protected areas management PACT Protected Areas Conservation Trust PFB Programme for Belize PUP Peoples’ United Party SPEAR Society for the Promotion of Education and Research TEC Tropical Education Center TMNR Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve TNC The Nature Conservancy WCI Wildlife Conservation International WPA Wildlife Protection Act WWF World Wildlife Fund UCB University College of Belize UDP United Democratic Party UNDP United Nations Development Program UNESCO United Nations Environmental, Scientific, and Cultural Organization USAID United States Agency for International Development iv Chapter 1: Executive Summary I. INTRODUCTION The Belize Audubon Society (BAS) aims to protect the diverse array of habitats and species found within Belize by fostering human understanding of the value of biodiversity and natural resources. In working towards this broad goal, BAS performs many activities, including educating about and advocating for environmental issues, yet functions primarily as a manager of protected areas (PAs). At the request of the organization, this project examined BAS’ role as a protected-areas manager and provided recommendations to aid BAS in achieving its mission in the context of protected areas management (PAM). While the recommendations and conclusions drawn herein apply specifically to BAS and its role as a protected-areas manager, many—if not all—of the suggestions apply across the spectrum of activities undertaken by BAS. II. NATIONAL POLICY In recent years Belize has experienced an explosion of activity at the national level related to environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and PAs. The country recently passed its first environmental pollution laws, is developing a national biodiversity strategy, and is moving forward with regard to improving PAM. The Government of Belize (GOB) has stated its commitment to the concept of sustainable development. Along with the country’s conservation organizations, GOB is in the process of building the institutional and technical capacity necessary to sustainably manage the country’s resources. The non-governmental organization (NGO) community is becoming increasingly involved with the development of national policy, and BAS is no exception to this. BAS has been an influential voice for the environment ever since it was first established, and now the organization is playing a larger role in the development of national policies. There is a role for BAS, along with other organizations, in this domain. National issues that BAS could help address include biodiversity conservation, PAs and wildlife, co- management, population growth, pollution regulation, and economic development. The chapter examines national policy and the national political context in Belize related to PAM, environmental education, and tourism, respectively. BAS’ PAM agreement with GOB is examined in detail, as well as BAS’ evolving relationship with various government agencies and political parties. The BAS Advocacy Program is also analyzed, and the section concludes with suggestions on how BAS can move forward with its advocacy program to influence PAs and other relevant policy at the national level. Recommendations are also given on how BAS can better integrate both national laws and policies, as well as its advocacy program, with its PAM program. 1 III. INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAW Increased transformation of the natural environment has wrought environmental problems of broadening complexity and scope. Recognizing the transnational significance of these threats, the international community has responded with a body of international law that addresses environmental concerns through international agreements empowered by the cooperation and self-regulation among independent nation-states. Belize is a party to approximately 35 international conventions relevant to the protection of natural resources, and soon may be party to several more. Research indicates that many of these international conventions provide opportunities for various states and organizations to capitalize on measures designed to enhance the parties’ ability to manage and sustain their natural resources. Provisions designed for this purpose usually entail financial assistance, technical assistance, and access to research, management plans, and experts. Of the many conventions to which Belize is a party however, three relate most directly to PAM. The chapter discusses the historical relationship between humans and the environment, the growing global consequences of that relationship, and the international legal instruments conceived as a result. After an academic discussion of the administration and limitations of international environmental law, the chapter explores the intent and provisions of the World Heritage Convention, the RAMSAR Convention on Wetlands, and the Convention on Biological Diversity. It then discusses how BAS, charged with managing eight nationally protected areas in Belize, can capitalize on the provisions within these conventions to foster more effective protection of the areas under its purview. Finally, the chapter makes recommendations that take advantage of the financial, technical, and cooperative assistance provided by each convention that is designed to assist countries
Recommended publications
  • CHRISTIAN GERLACH Sustainable Violence: Mass Resettlement, Strategic Villages, and Militias in Anti-Guerrilla Warfare

    CHRISTIAN GERLACH Sustainable Violence: Mass Resettlement, Strategic Villages, and Militias in Anti-Guerrilla Warfare

    CHRISTIAN GERLACH Sustainable Violence: Mass Resettlement, Strategic Villages, and Militias in Anti-Guerrilla Warfare in RICHARD BESSEL AND CLAUDIA B. HAAKE (eds.), Removing Peoples. Forced Removal in the Modern World (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2009) pp. 360–393 ISBN: 978 0 199 56195 7 The following PDF is published under a Creative Commons CC BY-NC-ND licence. Anyone may freely read, download, distribute, and make the work available to the public in printed or electronic form provided that appropriate credit is given. However, no commercial use is allowed and the work may not be altered or transformed, or serve as the basis for a derivative work. The publication rights for this volume have formally reverted from Oxford University Press to the German Historical Institute London. All reasonable effort has been made to contact any further copyright holders in this volume. Any objections to this material being published online under open access should be addressed to the German Historical Institute London. DOI: 15 Sustainable Violence: Mass Resettlement, Strategic Villages, and Militias in Anti-Guerrilla Warfare CHRISTIAN GERLACH Introduction The story told in this essay begins around 1950, about at the end of what some call the 'racial century'. 1 In scholarly discussion anti-partisan warfare has been relatively neglected, although it accounted for a large proportion of the victims of mass violence in the twentieth century.2 Many of these victims resulted from resettlement, removal, and expulsion. Yet the events covered here have hardly played a part in debates about enforced popu- lation movements during the past decade or two, given that mass transfers of populations have increasingly been declared 'ethnic' in the course of what amounts to an ethnization of history due to post-1989 bourgeois triumphalism.
  • Kenya Election History 1963-2013

    Kenya Election History 1963-2013

    KENYA ELECTION HISTORY 1963-2013 1963 Kenya Election History 1963 1963: THE PRE-INDEPENDENCE ELECTIONS These were the last elections in pre-independent Kenya and the key players were two political parties, KANU and KADU. KADU drew its support from smaller, less urbanized communities hence advocated majimboism (regionalism) as a means of protecting them. KANU had been forced to accept KADU’s proposal to incorporate a majimbo system of government after being pressured by the British government. Though KANU agreed to majimbo, it vowed to undo it after gaining political power. The majimbo constitution that was introduced in 1962 provided for a two-chamber national legislature consisting of an upper (Senate) and lower (House of Representative). The Campaign KADU allied with the African People’s Party (APP) in the campaign. KANU and APP agreed not to field candidates in seats where the other stood a better chance. The Voting Elections were marked by high voter turnout and were held in three phases. They were widely boycotted in the North Eastern Province. Violence was reported in various parts of the country; four were killed in Isiolo, teargas used in Nyanza and Nakuru, clashes between supporters in Machakos, Mombasa, Nairobi and Kitale. In the House of Representative KANU won 66 seats out of 112 and gained working majority from 4 independents and 3 from NPUA, KADU took 47 seats and APP won 8. In the Senate KANU won 19 out 38 seats while KADU won 16 seats, APP won 2 and NPUA only 1. REFERENCE: NATIONAL ELECTIONS DATA BOOK By Institute for Education in Democracy (published in 1997).
  • Stalking Wild Cats

    Stalking Wild Cats

    ©2005 Graphic Arts Network, Inc. by Jeff Borg, [email protected] STALKING WILD CATS HEAR JAGUARS ROAR IN COCKSCOMB BASIN Once upon a time in the Cockscomb Basin, poachers hunted the powerful jaguars, loggers cut the mahogany trees, and hurricanes toppled the old-growth canopy. Just 20 years later, the jaguars rule, the trees grow dense, and the only threat that remains is from hurricanes. Today, the five wild cats of Belize — jaguars, jaguarundis, margays, ocelots, and pumas — all thrive under the protection of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1986 as the world’s first jaguar preserve and now home to the world’s largest concentration of wild cats. Nature-lovers also thrive at Cockscomb Basin — a 128,000-acre bowl of pristine rainforest, winding rivers, and scenic waterfalls in Stann Creek District — surrounded by mountain ridges and the looming 3,675-foot Victoria Peak. People flock here to hike, camp, kayak, canoe, tube, and swim. The Belize Audubon Society manages the sanctuary, with a visitor center, Maya craft shop, and accommodations just off Southern Highway at Maya Centre. Well-marked hiking trails lead children, adults, and serious naturalists throughout the terrain. Some paths take visitors on casual strolls along riverbanks. Some pose more muscular challenges. One dry-season route dares hearty hikers to conquer Victoria Peak, a two- day trek finished by climbing up on all fours. Get a permit and take a guide. The trails reward visitors with breathtaking views across the basin, rare bird sightings, and a chance to meet diverse Belizean wildlife. While evidence of jaguars abounds, including their ominous roars, humans rarely get to see these masters of stealth.
  • REVISION O F the AFRICAN Caeclllan GENUS

    REVISION O F the AFRICAN Caeclllan GENUS

    REVISION OFTHE AFRICAN CAEClLlAN GENUS SCHISTOMETOPUM PARKER (AMPH IBIA: CYMNOPHIONA: CAECILI IDAE) BY RONALD A. NU AND MICHAEL E. PFRENDER MISCELLANEC JS PUBLICATIONS MUSEUM OF ZOOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN, NO. 18Fb; ' Ann Arbor, September 2 7, 1 998 ISSN 076-8405 MIS(:ELIANEOUS PUBLICATIONS MUSEUM OF ZOOLOGY, LJNTVERSITY OF MICHIGAN NO. 187 The publicatioils of the M~~sclunof Zoology, The [Jniversity of Michigan, consist PI-irnarilyof two series-the Occasion:~lPapers allti the Miscellaneous Publicatio~ls.Both series were founded by Dc Bryant Walker, Mr. Rradshaw H. Swales, anti Dr. W.W. Newcornb. Occasionally the Museuni publishes contributiorls outside of these series; begirlnirlg in 1990 these are titled Special Publicatio~lsa~ld arc numbered. All submitted ~n;inl~scriptsreceive external review. The Misccllarieous Publications, which include ~l~ollographicstltdies, papers on field and ~II- seuln techniques, and other contributions 11ot within the scope of the Occasio~lalPapers, are pl~b- lishcd separately. It is not intended that they be grouped into volumes. Each 11r11nberhas a title page and, when necessary, a table of co1itelits. Tllc Occasional Papel-s, publication of which was begun in 1913, servc as a medium Sol- original studies based prirlcipally upon the collections in the Museurn. They are issurtl separately. MThen a sufficient number of pages has hcen printed to niakc a volume, a title pagc, table of contenb, and an index are supplied to libraries and individuals on the mailing list for the series. A cornplete list of publications on Birds, Fishes, Insects, Mammals, Moll~~sks,Rcpdles and Amphib- ians, and other topics is available. Address inquiries to the Directt)r, Muse~unof Zoolohy, The lir~ivcr- sity of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigarl 48109-1079.
  • Mangrove Conserva and Preserves Change Adaptation Belize, Central Ame Mangrove Conservation and Preserves As Climate Change Adap

    Mangrove Conserva and Preserves Change Adaptation Belize, Central Ame Mangrove Conservation and Preserves As Climate Change Adap

    Brooksmith Consulting Mangrove Conservation and Preserves as Climate Change Adaptation in Belize, Central America A case study 6/30/2011 Mangrove Conservation as Climate Change Adaptation in Belize Central America: A Case Study Table of Contents Execut ive Summary 2 Introduction 4 Mangrove conservation and climate change 4 Status of mangrove habitat 5 Climate change in Belize 6 Placencia Village 6 Threats to mangrove habitat 10 Coastal residential development 10 Agriculture and aquaculture 11 A programmatic response to climate change 12 The progression of mangrove conservation activities 13 Mangrove Challenge Contest 16 Mangrove Reserves 21 Bibliography 31 2 Mangrove Conservation as Climate Change Adaptation in Placencia, Belize: A case study Executive Summary The effects of climate change present growing challenges to low-lying developing nations in the Caribbean Basin. Sea level rise, increasing frequency of large tropical cyclones, loss of reef-building corals and other effects are projected to result in direct economic losses consuming over one-fifth of the gross domestic product of nations in the region by 2100. Resilient mangroves shorelines provide multiple buffers against climate change effects. In addition to serving as habitat for marine species and wildlife, mangroves also provide storm protection for coastal communities, a buffer against coastal erosion, carbon sinks, and additional resiliency for economically important habitat such as coral reef. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in Belize has initiated community-based adaptation projects to educate local populations and stakeholders about these emerging problems and to implement “no regrets” adaptation to climate change effects. Understanding of climate change science varies among demographics and opinion leaders within Belize but the value of mangrove habitat for storm protection and fish habitat is generally accepted.
  • KENYA Public Disclosure Authorized

    KENYA Public Disclosure Authorized

    RESTRICTED Report No. AF-26a FILE COPY This report was prepared for use within the Bank and its affiliated organizations. Public Disclosure Authorized They do not accept responsibility for its accuracy or completeness. The report may not be published nor may it be quoted as representing their views. INTERNATIONAL BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION Public Disclosure Authorized THE ECONOMY OF KENYA Public Disclosure Authorized July 10, 1964 Public Disclosure Authorized Department of Operations Africa CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS 100 EA cents = 1 EA shilling = U.S. $0. 14 20 EA shillings = L 1 sterling = U. S. $2. 80 6 1 million sterling = U. S. $2. 8 million U.S. $1 = 7. 15 EA shillings U.S. $1 million = L 357, 143 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page IIaps Charts Basic Data Suanary I. BACKGROUND . .. a 1 Country and People . .. .. .. .. .... 1 Constitutional and Political Developments . 2 II. THE EC ONOMY . a o. o. * 5 Structure and Growth . Agriculture . .. 6 Forestry . Q . .. .o . 11 Tourism and Wildlife . .. 12 YMining and Manufacturing . 12 Construction . 13 Electricity and Water ....... 13 Transportation . 13 Government Services . .. ..... 14 Foreign Trade and Payments *. .* . * .. 15 Capital Formation 0 . 0 . 17 Employment, Earnings and Prices . ... ... , . 18 Money and Credit a . C . 0 a a. - 19 Public Finances . ., a . 21 III. THE DEVELOPMEN4T PLAN . 23 IV. PROSPECTS AND CONCLUSIONS . ........ 26 STATISTICAL APPENDIX Li /- c a i: rr i4- æ r> KENYA AGRICULTURAL AREAS AND TRANSPORT C 5 ------. 4 E T H 1 O P l A.... .: S O M A L l A HoR T H E TE R H u G Au D A o" EA 5 T E R N To, ir O A s T a avar-....r...øso e.
  • Private Lands Conservation in Belize

    Private Lands Conservation in Belize

    University of Colorado Law School Colorado Law Scholarly Commons Getches-Wilkinson Center for Natural Books, Reports, and Studies Resources, Energy, and the Environment 2004 Private Lands Conservation in Belize Joan Marsan University of Colorado Boulder. Natural Resources Law Center Follow this and additional works at: https://scholar.law.colorado.edu/books_reports_studies Part of the Dispute Resolution and Arbitration Commons, Environmental Law Commons, Environmental Policy Commons, Estates and Trusts Commons, Land Use Law Commons, Legislation Commons, Natural Resources and Conservation Commons, Natural Resources Law Commons, Natural Resources Management and Policy Commons, Property Law and Real Estate Commons, and the Tax Law Commons Citation Information Joan Marsan, Private Lands Conservation In Belize (Natural Res. Law Ctr., Univ. of Colo. Sch. of Law 2004). JOAN MARSAN, PRIVATE LANDS CONSERVATION IN BELIZE (Natural Res. Law Ctr., Univ. of Colo. Sch. of Law 2004). Reproduced with permission of the Getches-Wilkinson Center for Natural Resources, Energy, and the Environment (formerly the Natural Resources Law Center) at the University of Colorado Law School. AVAILABLE ONLINE ====================; • •~ ~ ...... ~ ~ ~ .­~ PRIVATE LANDS CONSERVATION IN .~ BELIZE •_. -­~ • ~ ..­ A Country Report by the Natural Resources Law Center, ...... University of Colorado School of Law ~ 4 .­~ September 2004 ~ Sponsored by The Nature Conservancy Primary Author: Joan Marsan, NRLC Research Assistant KGA [email protected] 576 • M37 2004 Private Lands
  • The Wonders of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

    The Wonders of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

    | J ANUARY 2 0 1 6 | V OL . 0 4 # 0 1 | F R E E | The wonders of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary * Reconnecting with nature at Glover’s Reef Atoll * A bit of indulgence at Oasis Spa * Cheers to the New Year! January 2016 My Beautiful Belize, A Visitor’s Guide - San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize Page 1 From the Editor Tamara Sniffin Weh Di Go Ahn December on La Isla Bonita Through January 22nd Katrina Ancona Art Exhibition Venue: San Pedro House of Culture Did you know that the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in Belize is recognized as the world’s first jaguar preserve? More than thirty years ago conservationists in our country had the foresight to protect one of th our most cherished animals, while preserving vital habitat for a host of January 16 : other flora and fauna. And, did you know that you can easily explore Saga Night Fever! this enchanted area? No need for a huge expedition, even a simple af- ternoon walk can immerse you in a jungle wonderland unlike no other. 7PM until 11Pm. Support With an abundance of land and marine protected areas throughout Saga Humane Society and the country, Belize is truly a wild jewel worthy of exploring. In this issue of My Beautiful Belize we also take to the sea, discovering the have a groovy time! underwater beauty and island serenity of Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve. For tickets, please call We can all appreciate the importance of preservation, and this month Sandie at 620-1124 or we also take a look at the pampering side of ‘restoration’…perhaps after a night of sampling cocktails from our Cheers to the New Year purchase tickets at Casa list? Oasis Day Spa is just the place to regain that ‘human feeling,’ and Picasso or Pampered they are sure to work their soothing magic on whatever ails you.
  • Doing Business in Belize: 2016 Country Commercial Guide for U.S. Companies

    Doing Business in Belize: 2016 Country Commercial Guide for U.S. Companies

    Doing Business in Belize: 2016 Country Commercial Guide for U.S. Companies INTERNATIONAL COPYRIGHT, U.S. & FOREIGN COMMERCIAL SERVICE AND U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE, 2016. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES. Belize Country Commercial Guide Doing Business in Belize ________________________________________________________ 4 Market Overview __________________________________________________________________ 4 Market Challenges _________________________________________________________________ 5 Market Opportunities ______________________________________________________________ 6 Market Entry Strategy ______________________________________________________________ 7 Political Environment __________________________________________________________ 8 Political Environment _______________________________________________________________ 8 Selling U.S. Products & Services __________________________________________________ 9 Using an Agent to Sell US Products and Services _________________________________________ 9 Establishing an Office _______________________________________________________________ 9 Franchising ______________________________________________________________________ 10 Direct Marketing _________________________________________________________________ 10 Joint Ventures/Licensing ___________________________________________________________ 10 Selling to the Government __________________________________________________________ 10 Distribution & Sales Channels _______________________________________________________ 11 Express
  • Tourism and Biodiversity (Ecotourism - a Sustainable Development Tool, a Case for Belize)

    Tourism and Biodiversity (Ecotourism - a Sustainable Development Tool, a Case for Belize)

    CASE STUDY: TOURISM AND BIODIVERSITY (ECOTOURISM - A SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TOOL, A CASE FOR BELIZE) Prepared by Wiezsman Pat c/o Ministry of Tourism and youth Constitution Drive Belmopan Belize Tel.# 501 8 23393/4 Fax # 501 8 23815 e-mail: [email protected] January, 2001 1 Introduction: The following is a Case Study: Tourism and Biodiversity. In this instance, Ecotourism as a developmental tool and a tool for biodiversity planning and conservation for Belize is emphasized. This document highlights the potential of ecotourism as an economic activity that will: contribute to the sustainable economic and social development of the country and contribute to environmental and cultural heritage preservation, while ensuring the participation of the local communities and other stakeholders in the process. Overview of present state of Tourism Development in Belize: 1.1 Relative importance in the national economy Tourism is currently the most important contributor to Belize’s economy. According to the figures presented by the Belize Tourism Board for the year 1999, tourism contributes to approximately 18 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), 23 percent of the GDP with indirect economic benefits complied, 25 percent of total foreign exchange earnings and 1 in 4 jobs. The trend for the past ten years (1990 - to present) shows a steady increase (reflected in the Annex). Renewed investor confidence, an integrated tourism strategy and clear policy direction will set the platform for further economic growth while protecting Belize’s rich natural and cultural resources. Given the increasing economic importance of tourism to Belize’s economy, the Ministry of Tourism and Youth has embarked on the development of a new strategic platform for tourism.
  • WT/TPR/M/353 9 June 2017 (17-3015) Page

    WT/TPR/M/353 9 June 2017 (17-3015) Page

    WT/TPR/M/353 9 June 2017 (17-3015) Page: 1/31 Trade Policy Review Body 24 and 26 April 2017 TRADE POLICY REVIEW BELIZE MINUTES OF THE MEETING Chairperson: Ms Irene Young (Hong Kong, China) CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON ....................................................... 2 2 OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF BELIZE ........................................ 4 3 STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT ................................................................................ 8 4 STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS ........................................................................................ 12 5 REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF BELIZE AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ........... 23 6 CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON ......................................................... 28 7 ELECTION OF A NEW TPRB CHAIRPERSON ................................................................. 30 Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided by Belize are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/353/Add.1 and will be available online at http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm. WT/TPR/M/353 • Belize - 2 - 1 INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 1.1. The third Trade Policy Review of Belize was held on 24 and 26 April 2017. The Chairperson, Ms. Irene Young (Hong Kong, China), welcomed the delegation of Belize headed by H.E. Ambassador Dylan Vernon; the delegation from Belmopan; and the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Peter Matt (Liechtenstein). 1.2. For this particular meeting, Members noted from Airgram WTO/AIR/TPR/49/Add.1 of 11 April that, at the end of Day 2, there would be a special agenda item to select the new Chairperson of the TPRB. 1.3. Members were informed that the draft revisions to the Rules of Procedures circulated in January, necessary to reflect the outcome of the 6th TPRM Appraisal, were still going through certain domestic procedures of one Member.
  • Press Release

    Press Release

    PRESS RELEASE MIROVA, IUCN, TASA, BLUE FINANCE AND MINISTRY OF BLUE ECONOMY OF BELIZE ANNOUNCE THEIR PARTNERSHIP IN AN INNOVATIVE BLENDED FINANCE FACILITY TO IMPROVE THE MANAGEMENT OF BELIZE’S MARINE PROTECTED AREAS & CONTRIBUTE TO ITS BLUE ECONOMY. London, June 24, 2021 – The US$1.2 million facility allows the Marine Protected Area co- manager, Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association (TASA), to implement a number of sustainable revenue-generating initiatives and enhance the protection of the 132,000 hectares of spectacular coral reef ecosystems. The investment will have a positive impact on the local economy, including coastal fisher communities. This blended impact investment, alongside catalytic grant funding, will allow TASA to implement smart business models aligned with conservation objectives and generate its own revenues, to effectively protect the marine reserve. The project will enhance TASA’s financial sustainability, improve the MPA visitor experience, generate blue carbon credits and contribute to the effective long-term management of the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve. The investment will also be used to improve the management of fisheries, coral reefs, mangrove and sea grass habitats and is expected to have a direct impact on the local economy, benefitting small-scale fishers (re increased fishery productivity), promoting responsible tourism, and creating new jobs in the MPA. The investment will contribute directly to the United-Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) 1, 13, 14 and 17 (No poverty, Climate action, Life below water and Partnerships). Performance will be monitored using best practice impact standards. The facility has been structured by and funded by Natixis Investment Manager’s affiliate Mirova (through the Althelia Sustainable Ocean Fund1) in partnership with IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) through its Blue Natural Capital Finance Facility and with the support of Blue Finance, a specialized impact investment project developer for MPAs.