Strengthening climate resilience saving endangered species and improving livelihoods in Belize

This project seeks to strengthen the local capacity of the youth population and the climate resilience of the community of Gales Point Village in Belize. This is a coastal area home to many species of endangered animals which is also vulnerable to sea level rise and climate disasters like Hurricane Lisa in 2022. Project activities include : (1) expanding seagrass monitoring and mangrove restoration efforts to address biodiversity loss; (2) targeting households that utilize outdoor fire hearths to participate in a regenerative agroforestry project to aid in reforestation carbon sequestration and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities in Gales Point Village; (3) collecting data on endangered manatees in the sanctuary through a health assessment and satellite-tagging program to protect biodiversity; and (4) enhancing climate change education locally.

The expected outcomes of this project include: (1) improved mangrove habitats carbon sinks and foraging habitats within the Gales Point Wildlife Sanctuary; (2) enhanced sustainable livelihoods through a small-scale regenerative agroforestry project by targeting households that utilize outdoor fire hearths to replant treats and seasonal crops; (3) increased knowledge and skill set to identify important seagrass habitats and measure ecosystem health by youths; and (4) enhanced stewardship demonstrated by youth in climate and biodiversity actions.