Belize’s mangrove forests are hotspots for biodiversity and are essential to sustaining the health of the larger coral reef ecosystem. Mangroves not only represent important biodiversity but are also critical to the economy and well-being of the population, mainly by supporting two large economic sectors -Tourism and Fisheries - and providing protection from storms. Unfortunately, mangroves are disappearing with estimates at prime tourist destinations such as Placencia Peninsula, Ambergris Caye and other outer cayes having lost more than 35% of mangrove cover in the last few years.
Participate in the Mangrove Development Challenge. This is a national competition to promote and recognize innovative development designs that enhance and preserve mangroves on private properties. It is being organized by the Belize Forest Department, Belize Fisheries Department, Belize Ministry of Blue Economy, Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI), the Belize Mangrove Alliance and World Wildlife Fund (WWF) with support from The Pew Charitable Trusts. The Mangrove Development Challenge has been launched and deadline for receipt of applications is September 10th, 2021. Winners will be announced on September 20th, 2021 and an awarding ceremony will be conducted on September 29, 2021.
Who can participate?
Developers, landowners, and other interested groups
What kind of projects are being considered?
Only projects that have been already conducted will be considered. Specific practices endorsed by the Mangrove Friendly Development Challenge include:
1. Mangrove Reserves
2. Building practices that avoid removing mangrove or high-quality mangrove
3. Formal landscaping that incorporates mangrove
4. Mangrove hedges in developments
5. Boardwalks in mangrove forests
6. Docks built along mangroves rather than removing mangrove shorelines
7. Aesthetically pleasing mangrove trimming
8. City Parks with mangrove
9. Conservation and tourism organizations that maintain mangrove reserves
How can you participate?
1. Register your participation in the registration form you will find here.
2. In the space provided, upload:
a. A Word document describing your project in one page including specific efforts that were taken
to conserve mangroves (plantings, locations, preservation zones, building plans, etc.), and
include a description of the specific benefits of mangrove conservation for this specific project.
b. Map or diagram of the project showing general dimensions (hand-drawn is fine).
c. Up to 5 photos or JPEG photos (<5MB).
d. If possible, a video of the area showing the mangrove that has been sustainably
managed.
e. Identify all the files to be uploaded with the name of the person that has registered to participate.
How will selection be conducted?
The 2021 Mangrove Friendly Development Challenge will operate as it has in the past with a panel of judges scoring received entries. Projects will be judged on the following criteria:
· conservation value (shoreline protection, habitat, and water quality protection),
· aesthetics,
· sustainability and
· creativity.
Who will review and select the winners?
A panel of judges will review all entries that meet the selection criteria, according to the projects that are being considered. This panel is formed by:
1. A landscape architect
2. A civil engineer
3. A marine biologist
4. A mangrove expert
5. A representative from the Forest Department
What are contest categories and prizes?
The Mangrove Friendly Development Challenge includes two categories:
• Sustainable conservation category – which will award those projects that have placed special
emphasis on shoreline protection, habitat, and water quality protection.
• Aesthetics and creativity category – which will award those projects that highlight and enhance the beauty of the coastal landscape.
A first, second and third place will be awarded per each category.