Belize is leading an inspiring environmental turnaround by launching a nationwide mangrove restoration plan that builds on years of local replanting efforts. Once considered under threat from coastal development and pollution, mangrove forests are now at the heart of the country’s climate resilience strategy. The plan, developed in partnership with WWF Mesoamerica, the Belize Forest Department, and local communities, aims to restore key mangrove habitats that provide critical services—from absorbing millions of tons of carbon dioxide to protecting shorelines from rising seas and storms. A recent Nature study estimates that full implementation of the plan could trap up to 1.77 million metric tons of carbon and boost lobster catch by up to 33%, directly benefiting Belize’s fishing economy.
Community-led efforts remain the backbone of the national strategy. In villages like Gales Point, where local fishers and families have been replanting mangroves for over a decade, restoration is not just about ecology—it’s about survival. The Crocodile Research Coalition is also preserving a 94-acre mangrove reserve on Placencia Caye, combining habitat protection with public education and scientific research. These efforts reflect a growing understanding that healthy mangrove ecosystems are vital for biodiversity, fisheries, tourism, and climate adaptation. By weaving local stewardship into national policy, Belize is setting a powerful example of how small nations can make a big impact in the global climate fight. More