About us

Mangroves are recognized in Belize for their important role as a nature-based solution to climate change, providing critically important ecosystem services that include shoreline protection from erosion and tropical storms and important nurseries for commercial fish species that support fisher livelihoods.

Despite their recognized importance, mangroves have also been one of the least represented ecosystems in the National Protected Areas System. In 2019, approximately 12,800 ha of mangrove were under protection – only 16.6% of the total mangrove coverage in Belize. Considering the high value and importance placed on this ecosystem, and the increasing pressures it faces, there is a recognized need to increase focus on ensuring its long-term viability.

The Belize Mangrove Alliance (BMA) is a national chapter of the Global Mangrove Alliance, a collaboration that seeks to bring together NGOs, governments, scientists, industry, local communities, and funders towards a common goal of ‘increasing the global area of mangrove habitat through conservation, restoration and equitable management.’

The Belize Mangrove Alliance is conceived as a collaborative alliance of national organizations, civil society, key public sector organizations, local communities, and academic institutions in Belize, with a focus on using collective strengths and partnerships to address the need for improved mangrove conservation, protection, restoration and sustainable use. It will also provide a platform for discussion of blue carbon accounting, and blue-green investments in mangrove systems.