Belize, once known as being “Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secret”, gives us many reasons to celebrate this special day. Belize is not only home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, but is significantly covered with lush jungle and nature reserves that need to be protected and preserved. Deforestation, pollution, illegal wildlife trade are all threats to Belize’s natural resources. Today, as we celebrate World Conservation Day, we look at organizations doing an amazing job at protecting Belize’s natural resources and best practices to follow to preserve and protect our natural resources for future generations. There are many conservation groups and efforts that are making big strides in the conservation of its natural resources.

Leading the way for the protection and conservation of the Belize’s marine ecosystems!

Established by a group of leading foundations in 2001, Oceana is the largest international organization working exclusively to protect and restore the oceans on a global scale. Their offices around the world are dedicated to achieving measurable change by conducting specific, science-based, policy campaigns that will help make our oceans more biodiverse and abundant. In Belize, Oceana’s vision is a thriving ecosystem, capable of producing healthy marine resources that support a vibrant and sustainable local economy for Belizean’s. Local campaigns include the opposition of offshore drilling in Belize’s waters, and protecting Belize’s natural resources from indiscriminate fishing gear.

For more of their conservation work, VISIT HERE.

Leading the way for sustainable management of Belize’s protected areas!

Billy Barquedier National Park, photo courtesy APAMO Belize

APAMO is an umbrella organization for Belize’s conservation non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community-based organizations (CBOs). Presently, APAMO houses 16 members, including BAS, SEA, TIDE, TASA, and PFB, to name a few. As a part of their mandate, APAMO works across the country to invest in eco-tourism within the 28 Protected Areas under their umbrella. Boasting some of the most visited destinations in Belize, like the Mayflower Bocawina National Park and Blue Hole Natural Monument, why not leave a meaningful impact while you explore Belize? APAMO leads the way in protecting.

For more of their conservation work, VISIT HERE

Leading the way in Protected Area Management with the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area! 

The Rio Bravo. Photo courtesy PfB

Programme for Belize (PfB) was established in 1988 with the mission to conserve the biodiversity and promote the sustainable development of Belize through the proper management of the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management area (RBCMA). Therefore, PfB’s flagship project is the RBCMA. With 254,000 acres under their protection, PfB has since established the La Milpa Lodge & Research Center and the Hill Bank Field Station, integrating eco-tourism as a tool for sustainable management.

Top Tips to keep Nature Clean and Healthy in Belize

Belize’s natural resources are very important to the country. Therefore, Belizeans work towards their continued protection; visitors should do the same. Here are some tips to have a more clear and healthier environment globally.

• Do not litter!
• Think before you eat, like choosing sustainably sourced, local produce.
• Reduce your food waste and start a compost!
• Recycle and reuse whenever possible.
• Unplug to save energy. Turn off your lights when not using them or unplug items that you use infrequently.
• Go paperless and save some trees. For example, switch your bills to online statements instead!