7 News Belize

Belize Barrier Reef Redeemed
posted (June 26, 2018)
Tonight, it's official, the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System has officially been removed from the UNESCO World Heritage Center List of World Heritage in Danger. The matter was heard today in Bahrain by the World Heritage Committee.

Belize first went on the list in 2009 when there were myriad concerns including offshore oil concession blocks granted for areas adjacent to the reef system. But, since then Belize had made smart state-level decisions to protect the reef.

Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber heads the delegation to Bahrain, and courtesy the Ambergris Today crew, here are his remarks when the decision was made:..

Hon. Patrick Faber, Deputy Prime Minister
"We are pleased to say that we have met and surpassed the requirements and can now boasts leading the way in several regards. A small and vulnerable developing country as we are we have gone beyond most global targets set. Belize natural resources both terrestrial and marine are constantly being pillage by the incursions from neighboring countries. We call on the support of the international community and partners to assist us where possible in our efforts."

As you saw, Faber is accompanied by the Minister of Environment, Dr. Omar Figueroa.

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System comprises seven protected areas along the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere. The Barrier Reef and its various attractions were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. Kudos for the government came from the World Wildlife Fund which nots that its removal from the list came through, quote, "a recent series of landmark conservation measures enacted by Belize's government" and that the, quote "Incredible turnaround is the result of collaborative action between the government, UNESCO and civil society."

Their release notes, quote, "A landmark moratorium on oil exploration in Belizean waters was adopted in December 2017, making Belize one of only three countries in the world with such legislation."

The Coalition to save our Natural Heritage says, quote, "Nearly 200,000 Belizeans are estimated to rely on the reef for survival. And 15 percent of the country's gross domestic product comes from the reef-including about $15 million from the commercial fishing industry and about $200 million from tourism activities."

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