On Tuesday, BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC—The Government said it is aware of the ongoing erosion affecting the Placencia Peninsula, located in the Stann Creek District in southern Belize.
It said that the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Solid Waste Management, the Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum & Mining, and the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing held a meeting to address the situation and will respond to the residents’ concerns.
“The government recognizes the erosion issues impacting the Peninsula and is committed to identifying and rectifying any human-induced factors contributing to this situation without delay,” it said in a statement.
“Furthermore, the government acknowledges the effects of climate change on coastal communities, which pose risks to our natural resources, beaches, and private properties,” the statement said, adding that the government appreciates the communities’ engagement and understands the urgency of taking action to safeguard our properties and our social and cultural livelihoods.
The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) says the peninsular boasts rain forests, a Mayan ruin, waterfalls, and the Belize Barrier Reef, “a superb coastal reef system with dozens of dive sites.
“The fringe of the Peninsula is covered in mangroves, a superior habitat for birds and marine life. Many birds, fish, shellfish, and marine organisms begin their lives within the protection of these special areas,” it added.
The government said that it is aware of the public’s anxieties regarding various structures that impede the natural flow of sediment, sand extraction, and other factors exacerbating the depletion of the Peninsula’s beach.
It said that during the meeting, participants discussed short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals. While the agencies acknowledged that some of these objectives may present challenges, they are ultimately achievable.
The government said that to address the issues facing the Placencia Peninsula, it will engage with community leaders to chart a path forward, ensure municipal awareness of the situation, and enhance communication among key regulatory agencies regarding permit applications, including those for mining, mangrove alteration, construction of piers, and other structures.
In addition, it will rigorously enforce environmental regulations against individuals who fail to comply, allowing actions that perpetuate the Peninsula’s erosion. It will also increase vigilance through frequent compliance inspections of all that have received approvals but may contribute to erosion issues.
The government said it will continue to seek support for studies that would facilitate informed decision-making regarding the area’s sustainability.
“The agencies acknowledge and appreciate the research being conducted by the University of South Florida, along with community involvement and government collaboration, which will be instrumental in supporting this initiative,” the statement said, adding that the government remains “optimistic that with the collective efforts of all stakeholders, the rehabilitation and resiliency of the Peninsula can be effectively restored.”
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