Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
Country
Belize
Inscribed in
1996
Criteria
(vii)
(ix)
(x)
The conservation outlook for this site has been assessed as "significant concern" in the latest assessment cycle. Explore the Conservation Outlook Assessment for the site below. You have the option to access the summary, or the detailed assessment.
The coastal area of Belize is an outstanding natural system consisting of the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere, offshore atolls, several hundred sand cays, mangrove forests, coastal lagoons and estuaries. The system’s seven sites illustrate the evolutionary history of reef development and are a significant habitat for threatened species, including marine turtles, manatees and the American marine crocodile. © UNESCO
Summary
2025 Conservation Outlook
Finalised on
11 Oct 2025
Significant concern
Current state and trend of VALUES
High Concern
Overall THREATS
Overall PROTECTION and MANAGEMENT
Full assessment
Description of values
Intact ecosystem gradient providing for ongoing ecological processes
Criterion
(ix)
Illustrating a classic example of reef types, including fringing, barrier and atoll reef types, the site contains an intact ecosystem gradient ranging from the terrestrial to the deep ocean. Including littoral, wetland, and mangrove ecosystems, to seagrass beds interspersed with lagoonal reefs, to the outer barrier reef platform and oceanic atolls, this ecological gradient provides for a full complement of life-cycle needs, supporting critical spawning, nesting, foraging, and nursery ecosystem functions. Maintaining these ecological and biological processes ensures robust and resilient reefs (World Heritage Committee, 2014).
One of the most pristine reef ecosystems in the Western Hemisphere
Criterion
(vii)
The site was considered one of the most pristine reef ecosystems in the Western Hemisphere (IUCN, 1996). As the longest barrier reef in the Northern and Western Hemispheres and distinctive on account of its size, array of reef types and the luxuriance of corals, it provides a classic example of the evolutionary history of reefs and reef systems. The rise and fall of sea level over the millennia, coupled with natural karst topography and clear waters, results in a diverse submarine seascape of patch reefs, fringing reefs, faros, pinnacle reefs, barrier reefs as well as off-shelf atolls, rare deep water coral reefs and other unique geological features such as the Blue Hole and Rocky Point where the barrier reef touches the shore. The spectacular picturesque natural setting of brilliant white sandy cayes (aka islands) and verdant green mangrove cayes is in dramatic contrast to the surrounding azure waters (World Heritage Committee, 2014).
Diverse marine and littoral habitats
Criterion
(x)
The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS) is unique in the world for its array of reef types, making it an area with one of the highest levels of marine biodiversity in the Atlantic. (World Heritage Committee, 2014). The site provides an important habitat for a number of internationally threatened marine species. Remaining pristine areas of cayes (aka islands), with remnant stands of littoral and mangrove forest, also provide critical habitat for several endemic and migratory bird species (IUCN, 1996).
Marine species
Criterion
(x)
Numerous endangered species are protected within the boundaries of the BBRRS including the West Indian manatee, the American crocodile, three species of sea turtle and the great hammerheads of the Blue Hole Natural Monument. The property also provides valuable habitat for three species of groupers. A total of 246 taxa of marine flora have been described from the area as well as records of over 500 species of fish, 65 scleractinian corals, 45 hydroids, 350 molluscs, and tunicates and sponges (World Heritage Committee, 2014).
Terrestrial flora and fauna
Criterion
(x)
The site is home to a diverse array of top predators, on land and in the air; the jaguars of Bacalar Chico Forest and Marine Reserve and the ospreys of Glovers Reef Marine Reserve are a testament to the property’s importance and its ecological integrity. The property is also home to a total of 178 terrestrial plants, as well as endemic species including several Yucatan birds and island lizards (World Heritage Committee, 2014).
Assessment information
Coastal development, pollution, tourism growth, overfishing, invasive species and the multiple impacts of climate change (coral reef bleaching events, increased frequency and severity of storms; and sea level rise) are all very serious factors that negatively affect the overall integrity of the site. The threat assessment of the 2021-2026 Management Plan for Sapodilla Cays Marine Reserve lists climate change as the highest threat, followed by run-off from land-based activities, fishing pressure, illegal uses and visitor impacts. Furthermore, diseases like white band, black band and the infectious Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) are also a threat to Belize’s reefs and likely exacerbated by climate change, however their overall impact on the key attributes remains unknown.
Invasive Non-Native/ Alien Species
(Invasive Lionfish)
Invasive/problematic species
Pterois volitans
Pterois miles
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
Since they were first recorded in Belizean waters in 2008, invasive lionfish are decimating populations of native coral reef fish and invertebrates, undermining the reef’s resilience to the effects of climate change and threatening the livelihoods of the people who rely on it. Fish replenishment zones, with a ban on fishing which limits access to opportunistic lionfish fishers, are most at risk. Complete eradication of lionfish is near impossible to achieve; however, regular culling can drastically reduce the negative impacts of lionfish on the reef.
The State Party has been actively addressing the issue; however, the level of this threat remains very high. Lionfish have an abundance of prey and very few predators resulting in an overpopulation of the invasive species (Balan, 2023). This is a particular concern for threatened endemic species such as the social wrasse (Halichoeres socialis), a critically endangered fish only found in the shallow coral reefs and mangroves of the southern part of SWCMR. Studies have shown that the social wrasse comprises almost half of the lionfish diet in that area, making it increasingly vulnerable to extinction (Rocha et al., 2015). According to the 2015 national lionfish population assessments, South Water Caye Marine Reserve (SWCMR) has the highest densities of lionfish of all the surveyed marine protected areas (MPAs) (Belize National Lionfish Management Strategy, 2019).
To stem biodiversity loss and safeguard coastal livelihoods, lionfish populations must be controlled urgently. In 2016, a national initiative for the long-term control of the lionfish population commenced and the National Lionfish Management Strategy (2016-2021) was prepared (State Party of Belize, 2017). The Strategy was revised for 2019-2023 (Belize Fisheries Department, 2018). Various projects support the control of lionfish, for example the project "Building capacity for effective lionfish management in South Water Caye Marine Reserve" focuses on establishing and training a community-based lionfish brigade, trained in scientific scuba-diving and safe removal and handling of lionfish, to help cull invasive lionfish within SWCMR (specifically within Managed Access Area 3, with a total area of 411 km²). In November 2022, following community visits and an open application process, ten successful lionfish brigade candidates were selected, with representatives chosen from Sarteneja, Hope Creek, Dangriga, Hopkins, Sittee River, and Placencia. These members attended a series of workshops covering topics such as lionfish ecology, fish identification, and practical sessions in Lionfish Focus Search (LFS) methodology. All brigade members achieved their PADI Advanced Open Water scuba-diving qualification and, of these, nine also trained as Emergency First Responders. Following baseline data collection in 2022, the lionfish brigades, Wabafu Fishermen Association, and MPA managers convened in a workshop to analyze the data and identify priority sites for lionfish culling using socio-economic and ecological indicators. These indicators were considered based on their value to fisher livelihoods and to the habitats that sustain the biological diversity of SWCMR. In June 2023, the new lionfish brigade conducted the first quarterly lionfish culling within SWCMR, in collaboration with both the MPA managers and Belize Fisheries Department, removing a total of 46 lionfish across SWCMR (23 within the General Use Conservation Zones (GUZ) and 23 within the No Take Zone (NTZ)) (Sho, 2023).
The State Party has been actively addressing the issue; however, the level of this threat remains very high. Lionfish have an abundance of prey and very few predators resulting in an overpopulation of the invasive species (Balan, 2023). This is a particular concern for threatened endemic species such as the social wrasse (Halichoeres socialis), a critically endangered fish only found in the shallow coral reefs and mangroves of the southern part of SWCMR. Studies have shown that the social wrasse comprises almost half of the lionfish diet in that area, making it increasingly vulnerable to extinction (Rocha et al., 2015). According to the 2015 national lionfish population assessments, South Water Caye Marine Reserve (SWCMR) has the highest densities of lionfish of all the surveyed marine protected areas (MPAs) (Belize National Lionfish Management Strategy, 2019).
To stem biodiversity loss and safeguard coastal livelihoods, lionfish populations must be controlled urgently. In 2016, a national initiative for the long-term control of the lionfish population commenced and the National Lionfish Management Strategy (2016-2021) was prepared (State Party of Belize, 2017). The Strategy was revised for 2019-2023 (Belize Fisheries Department, 2018). Various projects support the control of lionfish, for example the project "Building capacity for effective lionfish management in South Water Caye Marine Reserve" focuses on establishing and training a community-based lionfish brigade, trained in scientific scuba-diving and safe removal and handling of lionfish, to help cull invasive lionfish within SWCMR (specifically within Managed Access Area 3, with a total area of 411 km²). In November 2022, following community visits and an open application process, ten successful lionfish brigade candidates were selected, with representatives chosen from Sarteneja, Hope Creek, Dangriga, Hopkins, Sittee River, and Placencia. These members attended a series of workshops covering topics such as lionfish ecology, fish identification, and practical sessions in Lionfish Focus Search (LFS) methodology. All brigade members achieved their PADI Advanced Open Water scuba-diving qualification and, of these, nine also trained as Emergency First Responders. Following baseline data collection in 2022, the lionfish brigades, Wabafu Fishermen Association, and MPA managers convened in a workshop to analyze the data and identify priority sites for lionfish culling using socio-economic and ecological indicators. These indicators were considered based on their value to fisher livelihoods and to the habitats that sustain the biological diversity of SWCMR. In June 2023, the new lionfish brigade conducted the first quarterly lionfish culling within SWCMR, in collaboration with both the MPA managers and Belize Fisheries Department, removing a total of 46 lionfish across SWCMR (23 within the General Use Conservation Zones (GUZ) and 23 within the No Take Zone (NTZ)) (Sho, 2023).
Water-borne & other effluent Pollution
(Pollution of near shore environments )
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Outside site
Near-shore environments are being polluted by runoff from construction sites, agrochemicals, residential areas and tourism infrastructure, with inappropriate disposal of wastes. Improper handling of fuels and other toxic substances adds to the pollution (UNESCO and IUCN, 2009). Phase shifts are occurring on some reefs from a domination by coral to fleshy macroalgae (seaweed) (FMA) (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2015). In 2023 FMA cover slightly decreased from 22% to 20% but remains in poor condition, as in every previous assessment; and 74% of water quality samples across the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef contained human sewage pathogens, with 7% and 17% of enterococcus and coliform samples, respectively, exceeding acceptable limits according to the Cartagena Convention (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2024). Research supports a hypothesis that nitrogen enrichment from land-based sources has increased phosphorus limitation driving macroalgal blooms and coral stress on the Belize Barrier Reef (Lapointe et al., 2021).
Residential Areas, Recreation & Tourism Areas
(Sale and lease of lands for private developments)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Coastal development has been an ongoing issue for this property. Lands on islands and cayes within the property have been sold off and leased by government for the development of private homes and tourism infrastructure (UNESCO and IUCN, 2009, 2013; State Party of Belize, 2012). The cartographic information on land tenure within the property compiled by the State Party shows a high proportion of private land or areas with unknown land tenure within the property. Only 28.2% or lands in the marine reserves is public (WWF, 2018). Therefore, clear restrictions and regulations on development are needed to ensure that developments do not result in negative impacts on the property. Approximately 1/3 non-compliance with coastal zone development guidelines has been reported (WWF, 2018). A permanent legal moratorium on the sale of the remaining nationally held lands, requested by the World Heritage Committee, remains to be established (UNESCO, 2017). An assessment found that 89 ha of mangroves had been cleared in the BBRRS since inscription, entirely within the South Water Cay Marine Reserve. Overall mangrove cover in Belize declined 5.4% in 36 years to 2017 (Cherrington et al., 2020). Regulations prohibiting the alteration of mangroves without a permit became law in 2018 (Government of Belize, 2018). The Global Mangrove Alliance Belize Chapter was formed to address the gaps in mangrove management and protection. The BMA-Action Plan 2022-2027 (Wildtracks, 2022) outlines outcomes including "to strengthen the legislative and policy framework for protection of mangrove values". Under Belize's Blue Bond Agreement, Milestone 2 resulted in the designation of public lands within the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System as strict mangrove reserves, enacted through Statutory Instrument SI 72 of 2022.
Fishing, Harvesting & Controlling Aquatic Species
(Illegal fishing and overfishing)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Illegal fishing by vessels from neighbouring countries, and overfishing of finfish, conch and lobster is prevalent and has resulted in the loss of fish aggregations, low populations of key species and the proliferation of macroalgae covering the reefs (UNESCO and IUCN, 2009; State Party of Belize, 2012). The State Party has developed a number of measures to address the issue, including a Managed Access programme, seasonal closures for primary species such as conch and lobster, protection for spawning aggregation sites, elimination of destructive fishing gear e.g. bottom trawling and the development of several legislative instruments (UNESCO and IUCN, 2013). The Managed Access programme is a rights-based approach to managing fisheries in Belize focused on ending open access fishing in Belizean waters and on empowering fishers (State Party of Belize, 2017). While the Fisheries Resources Act of 2020 shifts the focus from fish stocks and harvests to ecosystem-based management (Government of Belize, 2020), the effectiveness of the measures with regards to reducing threats to the values of the World Heritage site specifically needs to be monitored and evaluated. In 2024 the Meso-American Reef average biomass for snappers and groupers remains “Poor” with 696 g/100 m2. However, populations in Belize rebounded, nearly reaching “pre-COVID” levels. Nevertheless, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, habitat loss, and climate change continue to impact these populations (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2024).
Changes in Physical & Chemical Regimes, Changes in Temperature Regimes
(Acidification of the marine environment and increases in water temperatures )
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is facing a number of climate change impacts including sea-level rise, increased sea temperature and acidification, and increased storm frequency and intensity. One of the most serious effects of observed and projected climate change is the physiological consequences of coral bleaching, which has already caused long-term damage to many coral reefs worldwide. Some coral species lack vertical connectivity, and Belize’s deeper reefs may be serving as refuges, but for distant shallow reefs rather than local shallow reefs (Eckert et al., 2019). In 2023, all MAR reefs faced mortality risks, with Degree Heating Weeks (DHW) values ranging from 16 °C-weeks to nearly 24 °C-weeks, indicating widespread, severe bleaching (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2024). Nearshore coral growth is declining on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, driven primarily by the combined effects of long-term ocean warming and increasing exposure to higher levels of land-based anthropogenic stressors (Baumann et al. 2019). Stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) was first reported in Belize in 2019 (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2020). Live coral cover decreased 17% across Belize in 2021-2023 (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2024). The 2024 Mesoamerican Reef Report Card rates the overall health of Belize’s reef as poor, with a Reef Health Index (RHI) average score of 2.5 out of 5 based on surveys at 110 sites. Among the six reef complexes assessed in Belize, four were ranked fair with RHIs ranging from 2.8 to 3.3, and two were considered poor with RHIs at 2.3. One bright spot was an increase in the biomass of both commercial and herbivorous fish since the 2022 report card. But the country’s overall live coral cover declined from 18% to 15% over the same period (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2024).
The Corozal Bay, Swallow Caye, Port Honduras, and South Water Caye MPAs had the highest percentages of stress days and coral vulnerability stress index score based on these two parameters among the 24 MPAs analysed. Additionally, sea surface temperature in the warmest month of the year in Belize were seen to increase across all MPAs from 2002 to 2022 (Calejas et al., 2022).
Through the Resilient Reefs Initiative Belize has published its reef resilience strategy in 2023 and various efforts are underway to enhance reef resilience and strengthen monitoring.
The Corozal Bay, Swallow Caye, Port Honduras, and South Water Caye MPAs had the highest percentages of stress days and coral vulnerability stress index score based on these two parameters among the 24 MPAs analysed. Additionally, sea surface temperature in the warmest month of the year in Belize were seen to increase across all MPAs from 2002 to 2022 (Calejas et al., 2022).
Through the Resilient Reefs Initiative Belize has published its reef resilience strategy in 2023 and various efforts are underway to enhance reef resilience and strengthen monitoring.
Changes in Physical & Chemical Regimes, Changes in Precipitation & Hydrological Regime
(Sea level rise)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Sea level rise is already occurring gradually as a result of climate change. The rising sea levels and the potential increase in significant hurricane events associated with the expected change in climate will severely impact the future of Belize. It is likely that all seven component sites that comprise the World Heritage site are facing a significant threat in the medium term (UNESCO and IUCN, 2009; 2013).
Pathogens
(Diseases like white band, black band and the infectious Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease )
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Diseases like white band, black band and the infectious Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) are also a threat to Belize’s reefs. SCTLD, a new disease characterized by multiple lesions or dead spots on infected corals, has spread rampantly in Belize since 2019 killing off corals at a record pace. SCTLD had not been identified in southern Belize at the time the 2024 report card was published. By May 2025, it was detected at Laughing Bird for the first time (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2024; Lopez, 2025).
The most serious potential threat stems from tourism-related infrastructure developments. However, a request for the development of a cruise port terminal and the expansion of a bulk cargo facility was not granted by the National Environmental Appraisal Committee, based on the results of the EIA demonstrating on one hand the potential threat stemming from proposals to develop tourism-related infrastructure in the vicinity of the site, and on the other hand, the respect for the EIA results by the NEAC. In regard to the potential threat from off-shore oil exploration and drilling, a moratorium on petroleum operations within the limits of the marine zone of Belize was enacted and remains in effect.
Oil & Gas exploration/development
(Potential for off-shore oil exploration and drilling )
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
A number of Petroleum Sharing Agreements (PSA) in the marine areas formerly overlapped or were adjacent to the property (UNESCO and IUCN, 2013). An indefinite moratorium on petroleum operations within the limits of the marine zone of Belize was enacted (State Party of Belize, 2018) and remains in place.
Recreation & Tourism Areas
(Tourism-related infrastructure development)
Outside site
In December 2021, the Port of Belize Limited's request for environmental clearance for the development of a cruise port terminal and the expansion of a bulk cargo facility was not granted
by the National Environmental Appraisal Committee and adopted by the Department of the Environment. The decision was made considering views expressed at public consultations held on the 26th November 2020 and 23rd September 2021, information gather at a site visit held on the 18th February 2021 and the 2021 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report. Among the
concerns, the EIA report, addendum, and other information submitted failed to adequately address the request for the provision of alternative options for the dredge spoils (State Party of Belize, 2023b). After an appeal by the developer, the NEAC did not approve environmental clearance for the second proposal, primarily because of the EIA report failing to address the main areas of concern, which included dredge spoils. This example demonstrates the potential threat stemming from proposals to develop tourism-related infrastructure in the vicinity of the site, however also highlights the respect for the EIA results by the NEAC.
by the National Environmental Appraisal Committee and adopted by the Department of the Environment. The decision was made considering views expressed at public consultations held on the 26th November 2020 and 23rd September 2021, information gather at a site visit held on the 18th February 2021 and the 2021 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report. Among the
concerns, the EIA report, addendum, and other information submitted failed to adequately address the request for the provision of alternative options for the dredge spoils (State Party of Belize, 2023b). After an appeal by the developer, the NEAC did not approve environmental clearance for the second proposal, primarily because of the EIA report failing to address the main areas of concern, which included dredge spoils. This example demonstrates the potential threat stemming from proposals to develop tourism-related infrastructure in the vicinity of the site, however also highlights the respect for the EIA results by the NEAC.
Involvement of stakeholders and rightsholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, in decision-making processes
A baseline socio-economic study of five marine protected areas in the BBRR found that resource users primarily earn seasonal incomes from tourism products and services and wild seafood harvesting (fishing). The study highlighted the preferences of marine resource users to receive pertinent information through social media generally and through community-based activities for in-depth learning and decision-making. Moreover, respondents indicate a strong awareness of marine protection regulations but express notable concerns over the perceived lack of consistency in enforcement especially for illegal activities and repeat offences (Coombs, 2024). Belize is one of five beneficiary World Heritage sites under the Resilient Reefs Initiative by the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, AECOM, the Rockefeller Foundation and other partners. The Resilient Reefs Initiative was launched in Belize in May 2021 with the appointment of the Chief Resilience Officer within the Coastal Zone Management Authority & Institute. The main goal of the initiative is to create and deliver a Resilience Strategy for the Belize Barrier Reef System. Since its launch, the initiative has conducted wide stakeholder engagement and policy review to inform the resilience assessment; and multiple action scoping workshops to inform the development of the Resilience Strategy. Through multiple engagement sessions with stakeholders, the initiative has also built important partnerships by connecting the knowledge network partners with local stakeholders for future work. Following the release and implementation of the Strategy in 2023, the initiative is continuing to work alongside stakeholders to identify opportunities for embedding resilience-based management and long-term solutions for building resilience of the BBRS and communities dependent on it.
On November 4, 2021, Belize took a bold step in reshaping its economic future with the signing of the Blue Bonds deal. In partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the government committed to one of the most transformative financial restructurings in the country’s history, built on the foundations of marine conservation and sustainable fisheries. This landmark agreement, officially titled the Blue Loan Agreement and Conservation Funding Agreement, positioned Belize as a global leader in aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship. The agreement obligates the government to protect one quarter of its ocean space. Belize has legally designated 20.05% of its total ocean space, equivalent to 669,046 hectares as Biodiversity Protection Zones (BPZs). To meet the Milestone 4 target, a minimum of 165,100 hectares, or 4.95% of Belize’s ocean space, is being proposed for designation as Medium Protection Biodiversity Zones. However, it is important to note that as Belize approaches a critical milestone in its Blue Bonds deal, growing friction reveals underlying tensions between stakeholders. While the government moves forward to meet the commitment of designating 30% of Belize’s waters as protected zones, some local fishermen and other stakeholders fear the deal’s rapid implementation is side-lining their livelihoods and interests. As stakeholders weigh in, it becomes clear that a balanced approach is essential, not just for Belize’s marine ecosystem but for the well-being of its coastal communities. Fishers in Belize are expressing concerns about a lack of transparency surrounding fisheries, particularly in stock assessments and the accuracy of resource data, while criticising the consultations as poorly organised (Novelo, 2024).
On November 4, 2021, Belize took a bold step in reshaping its economic future with the signing of the Blue Bonds deal. In partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the government committed to one of the most transformative financial restructurings in the country’s history, built on the foundations of marine conservation and sustainable fisheries. This landmark agreement, officially titled the Blue Loan Agreement and Conservation Funding Agreement, positioned Belize as a global leader in aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship. The agreement obligates the government to protect one quarter of its ocean space. Belize has legally designated 20.05% of its total ocean space, equivalent to 669,046 hectares as Biodiversity Protection Zones (BPZs). To meet the Milestone 4 target, a minimum of 165,100 hectares, or 4.95% of Belize’s ocean space, is being proposed for designation as Medium Protection Biodiversity Zones. However, it is important to note that as Belize approaches a critical milestone in its Blue Bonds deal, growing friction reveals underlying tensions between stakeholders. While the government moves forward to meet the commitment of designating 30% of Belize’s waters as protected zones, some local fishermen and other stakeholders fear the deal’s rapid implementation is side-lining their livelihoods and interests. As stakeholders weigh in, it becomes clear that a balanced approach is essential, not just for Belize’s marine ecosystem but for the well-being of its coastal communities. Fishers in Belize are expressing concerns about a lack of transparency surrounding fisheries, particularly in stock assessments and the accuracy of resource data, while criticising the consultations as poorly organised (Novelo, 2024).
Legal framework
There is no legal framework specific to the World Heritage status of the site. Rather, enforcement is based on the varying legal designations attached to each component of the site, and the governance arrangement in place for that component (UNESCO and IUCN, 2009). However, updated EIA regulations include specific provisions for the OUV of the site in planning systems and national legislation such as the National Protected Areas Bill (UNESCO and IUCN, 2013), the Forests (Protection of Mangroves) Regulations 2018 (State Party of Belize, 2017), and the 2020 Fisheries Resources Act mitigate, to some extent, the lack of legal framework specifically relating to the site's World Heritage status. Regulations to designate public lands within the boundaries as forest reserves were adopted in 2022, and mangrove regulations provide special protection measures to “Priority Mangrove Areas” (State Party of Belize, 2023b).
Governance arrangements
The component sites of the serial property have been gazetted as protected areas with legal protection measures provided under the national constitution, the Fisheries Act and the National Parks Act. Oversight of all protected areas, including the BBRRS, is governed through various pieces of legislation administered by various Government of Belize Departments spread across various Ministries.
Integration into local, regional and national planning systems (including sea/landscape connectivity)
A number of legislative instruments are currently being developed or have been developed recently including, for example, the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan (ICZMP), the Land Use Policy Implementation Plan, the National Protected Areas Bill, the Fisheries Resources Bill (UNESCO and IUCN, 2013) and the Forests (Protection of Mangroves) Regulations (State Party of Belize, 2017). Their adoption and effective implementation are essential to ensure the long-term conservation of the property. Particularly, the finalisation and adoption of the ICZM Plan represents an important step in ensuring effective integration of the property into coastal zone management. It will be important that resources are available for its effective implementation in the long term (UNESCO, 2018; World Heritage Committee, 2017; 2018). Furthermore, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Checklist regulations now include specific provisions for consideration of the site's OUV, representing a significant step forward in planning systems (World Heritage Committee, 2019). A National Replenishment Zone Expansion initiative increased no-take areas from the current 11.63% of the territorial seas of Belize (State Party of Belize, 2023b), and the total area within the National Protected Areas System has been extended in 2024 to 25%, under the Blue Bond commitments, towards meeting Belize's 30x30 target.
Boundaries
The boundaries of the seven components comprising the World Heritage site are well defined. The State Party has also provided more precise descriptions and calculations of the area of each component through the process of boundaries clarification (World Heritage Committee, 2016). There are additional efforts to improve the site's protection including the process of developing a stakeholder driven MSP called Belize Sustainable Ocean Plan (BSOP), which will essentially determine areas for ocean protection and management to cover up to 30% of Belize’s oceans (State Party of Belize, 2023b). In partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the government committed to the Blue Loan Agreement and Conservation Funding Agreement, obligating the government to protect one quarter of its ocean space. Belize has legally designated 20.05% of its total ocean space, equivalent to 669,046 hectares as Biodiversity Protection Zones (BPZs). To meet the Milestone 4 target, a minimum of 165,100 hectares, or 4.95% of Belize’s ocean space, is being proposed for designation as Medium Protection Biodiversity Zones (Novelo, 2024).
Overlapping international designations
N/A
Implementation of World Heritage Committee decisions and recommendations
The State Party has made significant progress in addressing a number of the Committee’s requests and recommendations, and the site was removed from the List of World Heritage in Danger in 2018 (World Heritage Committee, 2017, 2018). The requested land tenure verification was reported in late 2018 to be due for completion in April 2019, allowing for a future designation of remaining public lands within the site as strict mangrove reserves (World Heritage Committee, 2019). EIA regulations have now been amended to incorporate provisions for the conservation of the site's OUV, and should be confirmed by the State Party (World Heritage Committee, 2019). Bilateral and multilateral programmes and funding initiatives towards the implementation of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan will need to continue (World Heritage Committee, 2019). The land tenure assessment and mapping for the remaining public lands within the Property was completed in mid-2020; it was assessed that remaining public lands remained in both the South Water Caye Marine Reserve and the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve (State Party of Belize, 2024).
Climate action
Direct mitigation of climate change is beyond the control of the management authority. Evidence of climate change adaption related actions specific to the site is not sufficient to determine the effectiveness of climate action, though it is mentioned in site management plans, and seagrass beds feature in Belize’s National Determined Contributions. In addition to sea-level rise, climate change and evolving precipitation rates can intensify the quantity of runoff, further enabling the flow of sediments and excess nutrients out to the lagoon surrounding the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS) (Martín-Arias, 2022).
Management plan and overall management system
This is a serial World Heritage site composed of several protected areas. On the level of these component protected areas the existing management structures can be considered be effective with management plans in place, e.g. Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve Management Plan 2023 - 2027 (Belize Fisheries Department, 2023), Half Moon Caye Natural Monument - Blue Hole Natural Monument (Lighthouse Reef Atoll) Management Plan 2025 - 2029 (Belize Audubon Society, 2024), Turneffe Atoll Management Plan 2023 - 2027 (Atoll Sustainability Association, 2023). There is no single management system or management plan to guide management of the site as a whole. However, the formation of the Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry and Sustainable Development has brought together Departments responsible for various aspects of protected areas management in Belize (UNESCO and IUCN, 2013), and the The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) has continued to implement the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan (ICZMP), including through the reactivation of Coastal Advisory Committees (CACs), which should serve to enhance the integrated management of the component protected areas, including defining appropriate types of development (State Party of Belize, 2017; UNESCO, 2018). Since the adoption of the 2020 Fisheries Resources Act, both the National Fisheries Policy, Strategy and Action Plan (NFPSA) and the Mariculture Policy have been endorsed by Cabinet (State Party of Belize, 2024). In 2016, a national initiative for the long-term control of the lionfish population commenced and the National Lionfish Management Strategy (2016-2021) was prepared (State Party of Belize, 2017). The Strategy has been revised for 2019-2023 (Belize Fisheries Department, 2018) but not updated since.
Law enforcement
Significant efforts have been undertaken over a number of years to improve fisheries management and address the issue of illegal fishing. Overall, there are some deficiencies in implementation which undermine the maintenance of the Outstanding Universal Value including conditions of Authenticity and/or Integrity of the property (State Party of Belize, 2023a). In a study by Coombs (2024) respondents indicate a strong awareness of marine protection regulations but express notable concerns over the perceived lack of consistency in enforcement especially for illegal activities and repeat offences.
Sustainable finance
In 2021 the Government of Belize and The Nature Conservancy entered into an agreement for the largest debt refinancing for ocean conservation to date establishing a Belize Fund for Sustainable Future. The 364 million US debt conversion for marine conservation will reduce Belize’s debt by 12% of the GDP in order to create long-term sustainable financing for conservation and commit to protect up to 30% of Belize’s national waters (State Party of Belize, 2023). WWF is leading the design of a Project Finance for Permanence (State Party of Belize, 2023b).
Staff capacity, training and development
There is no site-based capacity building plan or programme in place; management is implemented by external staff and skills are not transferred (State Party of Belize, 2023a). However there are various training activities occurring for marine guides, for example through the Environmental Conservation Organization.
Education and interpretation programmes
Some education and awareness raising activities have been undertaken within the framework of the "Highlighting 20 years of World Heritage Designation, BBRRS: Working Toward Better Monitoring, Management, Awareness" project, funded by the GEF and implemented by Belize Audubon Society and Belize Tourism Industry Association (Project Evaluation Report, 2019). Many other activities are organised by various organisations, for example the Environmental Conservation Organization which undertakes education and training activities for local communities, including teachers, marine guides and students.
Tourism and visitation management
The majority of visitation is a few hours, however a few sites can accommodate overnight stays. There is no strategy to manage visitors, tourism activity and its derived impacts on the World Heritage property, although there is a 2011 National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan. Popular sites of the Blue Hole and Halfmoon Cay receive approximately 15,000 visitors per year (State Party of Belize, 2023a). The proposed and rejected proposal for a cruise/cargo and tourism village development project illustrates the future potential increase of tourism and tourism-related infrastructure development pressure on the site and the need for a strategy to manage visitors and tourism developments.
Sustainable use
Habitat modification on different cayes and islands for vacation homes and tourism infrastructure is clearly incompatible with the conservation of the values of the site and has been of concern for a long time. Recreational uses such as sailing and diving could potentially be carried out in sustainable ways, but would require rigorous management to define capacities, appropriate management and regular monitoring to detect impacts. Updated legislation, most notably the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan, in tandem with the updated EIA procedures, which now include specific elements relating to the site's OUV in the 'checklist', define appropriate types of development and ensure associated use of resources do not negatively impact the site's values (State Party of Belize, 2017, 2018). Adequate financing and enforcement of these legislative tools are essential in order to ensure the use of resources in the site is sustainable in the long term (UNESCO, 2018, 2019; World Heritage Committee, 2018, 2019). Bowman et al. (2022) conclude that managed access to fishery resources will be unlikely to meet its objectives without more financial investment in enforcement and stakeholder engagement, research and the strengthening of institutional capacity. According to other sources, the benefits derived from the large investment in a (1) network of marine reserves, (2) seasonally protected fish spawning sites and (3) the managed access system for fishers have yet to illustrate increases in fishable biomass, improved control of fishing effort, data collection and stock evaluation of critical fisheries or habitats (Twefik, 2022). Concerns regarding overfishing in Belize waters generally remain with differing reports about fish populations. Although recent stock assessments indicated strong recruitment and stable fish populations, fishermen and the Belize Federation of Fishers (BFF) expressed concerns about a decline in fish stocks, notably conch (Novelo, 2024; Belize Fisheries Project Report, 2024).
Monitoring
Monitoring is undertaken on the level of component protected areas by the respective management organisations, but also across the whole reef when it comes to broader issues, such as the invasion of lionfish (UNESCO and IUCN, 2013) and every two years via Healthy Reefs Initiative, which publishes a civil society prepared regional report card (e.g. McField et al., 2020; Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2024.).
Research
Various research programmes have been carried out by the management authorities and a number of NGOs and by independent researchers. There are four main research stations: University of Belize's station on Glovers Reef, Smithsonian Institute station on Carrie Bow Caye, Tobacco Caye Marine Station and Wildlife Conservation Society's station on Glover’s reef (IUCN Consultation, 2020). The State Party of Belize reports (2023a) that there is considerable research but it is not directed towards management needs. Research results are shared with local communities and national agencies.
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats outside the site
Despite implementing a national strategy for the long-term control of the lionfish population since 2016, lionfish continue to be an overpopulated danger to the health of the Belize Barrier Reef (Balan, 2023). In 2022 a proposed cruise port and cargo expansion at the Port of Belize was rejected on environmental grounds (State Party of Belize, 2023b). Land use and land cover change is increasing on the mainland, and combined with climate-induced precipitation change, further enables the flow of sediments and excess nutrients out to the lagoon surrounding the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (Martín-Arias et al., 2022; Lobel and Lobel, 2024).
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats inside the site
Management of the individual component protected areas of the site may be assessed as mostly effective, even if sometimes constrained by low human and financial resources. However, certain issues, particularly land development, require cooperation across the whole site. While the main management agencies (Fisheries and Forestry Departments, Coastal Zone Management Authority, NGOs involved in co-management) are cooperative, permitting agencies do not always issue permits in accordance with the management plans of the component protected areas. It is, therefore, essential that the adopted Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan as well as other relevant regulations are effectively implemented, and sufficiently financed, in order to provide clear guidance for any kind of development activities within the World Heritage site and its buffer zone (UNESCO, 2018).
The protection and management of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System has undergone significant improvements in recent years and can thus be assessed as mostly effective. Significant achievements, in particular the enactment of a moratorium on oil exploration and other petroleum operations within the entire maritime zone of Belize, as well as measures to address concerns regarding inappropriate land development within the site, have led to the removal of the site from the List of World Heritage in Danger. Challenges have also been addressed in the integrated management of the site, which comprises seven component protected areas, however the site still lacks an integrated management plan. Systemic issues such as inappropriate land development and the sale and lease of lands within the World Heritage site, have previously undermined the otherwise effective component-level protection of the site. This has been addressed through development and enactment of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan as well as other relevant national regulations and updated planning systems, such as the updated EIA checklist which now includes provisions for consideration of the site's Outstanding Universal Value, the 2018 Forests (Protection of Mangroves) Regulations and the 2020 Fisheries Resources Act which emphasizes ecosystem based fisheries management, all of which aim to harmonize legislation with the conservation of the site's OUV. It is essential that these new legislative instruments are effectively implemented and resourced in order to provide clear guidance for any kind of development activities that may impact the site. All remaining public lands within the site have now been designated as forest reserves. Furthermore, the non-endorsement of a proposal for the PBL/Waterloo Cruise Port and Cargo Expansion development project as a consequence of the Department of the Environment’s environmental screening process demonstrates the State Party's commitment to protection the site's OUV. The commitment by the government under the Blue Loan Agreement and Conservation Funding Agreement is also notable. A National Replenishment Zone Expansion initiative increased no-take areas from the current 11.63% of the territorial seas of Belize and the total area within the National Protected Areas System has been extended in 2024 to 25%, under the Blue Bond commitments, towards meeting Belize's 30x30 target.
Intact ecosystem gradient providing for ongoing ecological processes
High Concern
Trend
Stable
The property still provides an array of examples of the evolutionary history of reef development with fringing, barrier and atoll reef sites. However there are trends which indicate that an increased level of development both within and adjacent to the property on the coastal fringe has taken place and if not properly managed could lead to the decline of these reef sites.
In 2015, the state of reefs in Belize was assessed as 4% in good condition, 28% in fair condition, 47% in poor condition and 21% in critical condition (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2015). In 2020, reef health in Belize improved slightly (the only improvement in the region), with coral cover increasing 16% to 17%; fleshy macroalgal cover decreasing 21% to 19%, and herbivorous fish biomass up 15% (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2020). In 2021-2023 live coral coverage declined, while commercial fish and herbivorous fish biomass increased (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2024).
In 2015, the state of reefs in Belize was assessed as 4% in good condition, 28% in fair condition, 47% in poor condition and 21% in critical condition (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2015). In 2020, reef health in Belize improved slightly (the only improvement in the region), with coral cover increasing 16% to 17%; fleshy macroalgal cover decreasing 21% to 19%, and herbivorous fish biomass up 15% (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2020). In 2021-2023 live coral coverage declined, while commercial fish and herbivorous fish biomass increased (Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, 2024).
One of the most pristine reef ecosystems in the Western Hemisphere
High Concern
Trend
Stable
The values for which the property was inscribed on the World Heritage List under criterion (vii) are still clearly demonstrated in the property. The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System remains a display of superlative natural phenomena and areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance. It remains the longest barrier reef in the Northern and Western Hemispheres and is still considered unique in the world for its array of reef types contained in a relatively small area (UNESCO and IUCN, 2013). The pristine nature of the site is, however, being undermined by myriad factors, especially growth of tourism, real estate and tourism infrastructure development, overfishing, pollution of near-shore environments, multiple effects of climate change and invasive species (UNESCO and IUCN, 2009, 2013). Recent amendments to the EIA regulations in Belize, which account for the site's OUV in planning, have reduced the tourism and development related pressures, whilst integrated management initiatives such as the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan continues to be implemented through various activities, programmes and projects, as well as finalization and approval of the Fisheries Resources Bill, and the expansion of no-take zones to mitigate these threats across the entire system (State Party of Belize, 2017, 2018, 2023b; UNESCO, 2018, 2019).
Diverse marine and littoral habitats
Low Concern
Trend
Stable
There do not appear to be any identified total losses of habitats or species since inscription and recent management measures have attempted to address significant threats in this regard. There remains, however, significant concern for some unique habitats, notably in the highly diverse Pelican Cayes area where existing development proposals remain legally viable (UNESCO and IUCN, 2013). Also, the high private land ownership of cayes/islands within the site means continued land developments in the future are highly possible.
Marine species
High Concern
Trend
Deteriorating
By 2004, Belize was exhibiting classic fishing down of the food web. Groupers (Serranidae) and snappers (Lutjanidae) were scarce and fisheries turned to parrotfishes (Scarinae), leading to a 41% decline in their biomass. Several policies were enacted in 2009-2010, including a moratorium on fishing parrotfish and a new marine park with no-take areas. Temporal trends in parrotfish grazing intensity were strongly negatively associated with the cover of macroalgae, which by 2018 had fallen to the lowest levels observed since measurements began in 1998. Coral populations remained resilient and continued to exhibit periods of net recovery after disturbance. A moratorium on parrotfish harvesting is feasible and appears to help constrain macroalgae, which can otherwise impede coral resilience (Mumby et al., 2021). Belize's overall reef health has improved slightly in recent years, the only increase in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef region, however marine species remain vulnerable. Stony coral tissue loss disease appeared in Belize for the first time in 2019. The disease removed over 30% cover of 22 affected species in Mexico in one year. Coral restoration has begun, including in two units of the serial property (State Party of Belize, 2019), but need massive scaling up in order to mitigate the threat. Concerns regarding overfishing in Belize waters generally remain with differing reports about fish populations. Although recent stock assessments indicated strong recruitment and stable fish populations, fishermen and the Belize Federation of Fishers (BFF) expressed concerns about a decline in fish stocks, notably conch (Novelo, 2024; Belize Fisheries Project Report, 2024).
Terrestrial flora and fauna
Data Deficient
Trend
Data Deficient
With an emphasis on marine resources there is little data available on terrestrial flora and fauna in the property. However, the approval of the Forests (Mangrove Protection) Regulations in 2018, is a positive step towards conserving the terrestrial flora and fauna in the site.
Assessment of the current state and trend of World Heritage values
Stable
The values for which the site was inscribed on the World Heritage List are still present and may even indicate a modest improvement. The site remains the longest barrier reef in the Northern and Western Hemispheres and is still considered unique in the world for its array of reef types contained in a relatively small area. The 2024 Report Card for the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef indicated an improving trend for the status of the reef systems in Belize as a whole, with improving trends observed in coral cover, fleshy macroalgal cover and herbivorous fish biomass. These figures are for the whole part of the Mesoamerican Reef located in Belize and the condition of the reefs within the World Heritage site is expected to be better. Despite these encouraging signs, the site remains affected by a number of threats, including coastal development, especially poorly regulated growth of tourism and associated development, agricultural runoff (including transnational), incomplete sewage treatment, illegal fishing, invasive species and climate change. Nonetheless, with the recent positive developments in the legislative framework, a number of threats can likely be addressed more efficiently, allowing for some values of the site to recover in the future. It is important to emphasize that the status of species and habitats in Belize depends on an unknown but sure extent to the status of species populations and ecosystems in the neighbouring areas, particularly the Mesoamerican Reef ecoregion. In turn, the Belize Barrier Reef contributes to the preservation of the entire ecoregion.
Additional information
Outdoor recreation and tourism
The site has become a major draw internationally because of the beauty of the islands, cayes, and reefs.
Food,
Fishing areas and conservation of fish stocks
Provided that an effective no-take zones network is in place and is effectively enforced, the site would have a major impact on restoring fisheries in the whole area of the Barrier Reef.
Importance for research
The site could be used as a global center for reef research and education.
In addition, due to the decades of experience of both, public and private institutions, of marine resources management, Belize professionals (fishers, researchers, educators, conservation practitioners and other stakeholders) make a notable contribution to building the capacity of other countries in the Caribbean, through knowledge and practice sharing.
In addition, due to the decades of experience of both, public and private institutions, of marine resources management, Belize professionals (fishers, researchers, educators, conservation practitioners and other stakeholders) make a notable contribution to building the capacity of other countries in the Caribbean, through knowledge and practice sharing.
The site seeks to protect and manage some of the most extraordinary areas of the Mesoamerican Reef for conservation, tourism, fisheries, and research and education and serves as a model for other areas in the Caribbean.
References
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