Co-management as a means of environmental conservation: The Case of Belize
Fellowship Year:
2016
Degree:
MEM
Research Country:
Belize
Research Continent:
North America
Partner Organizations:
UNDP Small Grants Programme
Abstract:
The co-management framework for protected areas management is embedded in Belize’s history of environmental movements. While co-management provided a then under resourced government the necessary support to manage the protected areas, it has taken on a different face in today’s time. Co-management is being used a means to achieve varied objectives; from maintaining cultural heritage to promoting a peaceful resolution of border issues with a neighbouring state. This paper reviews the current co-management framework for protected areas, the opportunities and challenges it presents to the Belizean population and the possible impacts of the amendments to the National Protected Areas System Act and the Protected Areas Conservation Trust Act.
