Belize Meets Blue Bonds Goal With 25% of Ocean Territory Now Protected

Belize has successfully protected over 25% of its ocean territory, meeting a key conservation target under its Blue Bonds Program. The government announced that it has achieved Milestone 4 of the Conservation Funding Agreement, which required 25% of Belize’s ocean space to be designated as Biodiversity Protection Zones.  This milestone was reached by adding close to one thousand seven hundred square kilometers of new protected areas.  This brings the total to eight thousand three hundred and sixty square kilometers. The newly designated zones, which include expansions to areas like Lighthouse Reef and Glover’s Reef, were established through a science-based process with nationwide consultations.  The new Medium Protection Zones allow for limited, managed use, aiming to protect vital marine habitats like coral reefs and mangroves while supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities. The government stated it remains committed to its conservation goals to ensure a sustainable ocean economy for the country.