Bio-diversity

The overall goal of this project is to empower northern fishing communities for economic and social transformation and reduce fishing pressures around the BBRRS-WHS. The primary objectives of this project are to empower three northern communities through the provision of alternative income generation opportunities and to increase the awareness of these communities on protecting the BBRRS. This will lead to reduced extractive pressures on the fisheries resources. The expected results are the following: 1.Seventy percent (70%) of community members increase their awareness on the importance of protecting the natural resources of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System-World Heritage Site; 2. Entrepreneurship and productivity capacities improved for thirty (30) community members; 3. Capitalization and Strengthening of three (3) Community Credit Enterprises (CCEs) by providing them with seed capital which will allow them to provide loans to their members; and 4. Legal Registration of the three (3) CCEs promoting greater security and transparency for all stakeholders involved. 5. Case study developed on best practices of the CCEs, including lessons learnt and recommendations. This project fits two major goals of the larger COMPACT Programme: To expand the sustainable use of the resources of the BBRRS-WHS and to promote the protection, conservation and sustainable use of the resources of the BBRRS-WHS. This will benefit the BBRRS- WHS users by retaining their rich biodiversity.

Belize