May 5, 2025
The project aims to develop the Belize Barrier Reef Watch Database, a citizen science platform that collects reports on resilient reefs, hope spots, and significant biodiversity sightings across the Belize Barrier Reef. Because government agencies and co-managers lack sufficient resources to monitor this vast and diverse ecosystem, the database will provide valuable information for marine resource management. The program will train and engage stakeholders as Citizen Scientists to submit ongoing data, while also encouraging long-term support from the business community. This initiative supports the Belize Fund’s thematic areas of Sustainable Fisheries and Protection of Biodiversity.
Funds from Belize Fund ($BZD)
$,225
Co-financing ($BZD):
$,030
Grantee
Environmental Conservation Organization ECOMAR
Location
Belize Seascape
Thematic Area
Time-frame
February 2025 – April 2027
Project Goal:
To create a self-financing, sustainable and mature seaweed industry for Belize.
Project Objectives:
- To develop a comprehensive seaweed industry post-harvesting quality control training program.
- To train and certify 22 individuals in seaweed post-harvesting quality control.
- To develop and market 2 new seaweed value-added products to diversify income and contribute to the capitalization of the new Seaweed Industry Fund.
- To create the blueprint of the Seaweed Industry Fund for future capitalization.
- To promote collaboration and support from the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries.
Expected Outputs:
- Training curriculum and manual Seaweed post-harvesting quality control developed.
- 22 individuals trained and certified in post harvesting quality control.
- Two new seaweed value added products (one health food product and one cosmetic product).
Seaweed Industry Fund Blueprint created. - Establish a partnership between the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries and Blue Nutrients Belize.
GAP Blue Nutrients Jan 2024