Belize Pushes for More Conservation Funding at UN Biodiversity Conference

Belize is highlighting its conservation efforts on the international stage as the country takes part in the United Nations Biodiversity Conference in Armenia. Officials say Belize is making progress in protecting its forests and marine areas, but more support is needed to meet its environmental goals. Belize is reaffirming its commitment to protecting its natural resources at COP17 of the Convention on Biological Diversity, being held in Yerevan, Armenia. A delegation led by Minister of Sustainable Development and Climate Change Orlando Habet is taking part in discussions focused on protecting biodiversity and implementing global conservation targets. Minister Habet highlighted Belize’s conservation work, noting that about 40 percent of the country’s land is within protected areas, forest cover remains close to 60 percent, and Belize is moving closer to protecting 30 percent of its marine space. But Habet says meeting these goals will require more financial support from the international community. Belize’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan estimates that about 137 million U.S. dollars will be needed to carry out the country’s conservation plans between 2025 and 2035. The Minister called on developed countries to provide more reliable funding, along with technical support and access to technology. Belize also joined discussions on the Tri-national Biocultural Corridor and the wider Mesoamerican 30×30 conservation effort, which focuses on protecting ecosystems while involving Indigenous Peoples and local communities. Another key move was Belize’s decision to join the Women Ocean Guardians Initiative, which promotes greater involvement of women in marine conservation and the blue economy. Habet says Belize’s achievements in protecting its oceans have been driven by the leadership and work of women in coastal communities. Belize’s participation at COP17 continues the country’s push for stronger partnerships to protect its environment while supporting sustainable development.