UB and Belize Fund Launch Major Ocean Conservation Partnership

The University of Belize and the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future have officially entered into a major five-year partnership aimed at boosting the country’s capacity in ocean conservation, climate adaptation, and blue economy development. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed yesterday in Belmopan, marking a significant step toward uniting scientific research with on-the-ground conservation action.  The agreement formalizes a collaboration between Belize’s national university and the conservation trust responsible for managing the Blue Bonds financing mechanism. Together, the institutions will focus on expanding research, strengthening data analysis, training coastal stakeholders, and promoting community engagement on marine sustainability. Under this new agreement, UB and the Belize Fund will work jointly to strengthen research and data analysis related to marine conservation and the growing blue economy. They will also develop specialized training programs for resource managers, small enterprises, and coastal communities, while sharing technical expertise across sectors to promote sustainable ocean management and climate resilience. Additionally, both institutions will support national efforts to safeguard Belize’s marine and coastal ecosystems and create new economic opportunities linked to sustainable resource use.  UB President Dr. Vincent Palacio described the partnership as a transformative moment for the institution and the country. Belize Fund Executive Director Dr. Leandra Cho-Ricketts emphasized the importance of collaboration as Belize strengthens its response to climate change and expands its blue economy vision. The MOU will remain in effect for five years, with both UB and the Belize Fund designating officers to oversee implementation and ensure the success of this groundbreaking partnership in ocean conservation and education.