In November 2021, the Government of Belize (GoB) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) signed a “blue bond” debt conversion agreement enabling the country to reduce its debt burden and increase its investment in marine conservation. Key milestones including the development, approval, and implementation of a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) have been outlined in the Conservation Commitments under the Conservat
ion Funding Agreement (CFA). On the 19th of October 2022, Belize’s MSP process was officially launched by the Government of Belize, marking the achievement of Milestone 3 under the CFA. The “Belize Sustainable Ocean Plan” (BSOP) was unveiled at the launch event as the name for Belize’s MSP, which was selected by the public through an open voting process. The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI), under the Ministry of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation, has been designated as the government’s lead agency for the Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) process with funding support from the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future (BFSF). Vision
A healthy, resilient, and equitably shared ocean that supports a thriving national economy and nurtures the culture and well-being of all Belizeans. Overarching Goals
To sign into law a Marine Spatial Plan1 that guides sustainable development and designates up to 30% of Belize’s ocean as Biodiversity Protection Zones. Goal 1 - Process Governance Goal
To design and implement a science-based, data-driven, participatory, equitable, and inclusive MSP process which delivers on Belize’s MSP-related commitments under the Blue Loan Agreement and Conservation Funding Agreement, in conformance with the guiding principles for decision making. Goal 3 - Blue Economy Goal
To support the sustainable growth and development of Belize’s blue economy in alignment with national legislative, policy, and planning frameworks. Goal 4 - Equity
To ensure fair and equitable access for all Belizeans to benefits derived from marine resources and spaces5, with respect for traditional social, environmental, cultural, and economic uses.
