Multi-Stakeholder MSP Workshop: Assessment for planning

Belize Hosts Multi-Stakeholder Marine Spatial Planning Workshop

Belize City, May 10, 2024 – The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI), in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy, successfully hosted the first Multi-Stakeholder Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) Workshop at the Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel from May 8-10, 2024. This workshop marks a significant milestone in Belize’s ongoing efforts to enhance marine conservation and spatial planning under the Belize Sustainable Ocean Plan (BSOP). The three-day event aimed to launch participatory spatial planning activities, targeting Milestones 4 and 6 of the BSOP. Key assessments necessary for effective spatial planning were defined and initiated, setting the stage for comprehensive marine management.

Day 1: Foundations and Future Scenarios

Day one focused on establishing a shared understanding of MSP steps and assessments. Attendees gained insights into areas considered for new protections and developed future scenarios for Belize’s ocean space.

Key presentations included:

Ms. Safira Vasquez and Mr. Belizario Carballo from the Blue Bond and Finance Permanence Unit-Office of the Prime Minister discussed the current status and future goals of the BSOP. Ms. Chantal Collier from The Nature Conservancy provided an overview of the MSP process and international best practices. Additionally, Mr. Samir Rosado from CZMAI reviewed proposed biodiversity protection zones and guided stakeholder comments.

Participants engaged in breakout sessions to assess the current conditions of marine resources and developed a future scenario matrix, culminating in the selection of a preferred future scenario for Belize’s marine environment.

Day 2: Defining Planning Criteria and Zoning

The second day was dedicated to identifying compatible and conflicting uses within the BSOP planning area and developing a draft zoning framework.

Key presentations included:

Mr. Chad Bowman from CZMAI led exercises to identify high-level conflicts and compatibilities between human uses. Ms. Chantal Collier from The Nature Conservancy discussed performance measures for seagrass management, while Mrs. Kate Longley-Wood from The Nature Conservancy outlined key considerations for developing an ocean zoning plan. Mrs. Andria Grinage from the Blue Economy Unit and Mrs. Alicia Eck-Nunez from the Belize Fisheries Department facilitated breakout groups to draft a zoning table addressing current and future activities.

Day 3: Ocean Use Survey and Marxan Overview

The final day focused on the Ocean Use Survey (OUS) and the application of Marxan, a decision support tool for systematic conservation planning.

Key presentations included:

Mr. Chad Bowman and Mr. Delwin Guevara from CZMAI reviewed the Ocean Use Survey methodology and results, highlighting gaps and outlining next steps for data refinement. Mr. Rick Tingey and Mrs. Kate Longley-Wood from The Nature Conservancy provided an overview of Marxan, discussing its methodology and applications, and presented a case study from Seychelles.

The workshop concluded with expressions of gratitude from CZMAI and The Nature Conservancy to all participants. The collaborative spirit and active participation of stakeholders are expected to drive future marine spatial planning initiatives, ensuring sustainable growth and conservation of Belize’s marine resources.  This landmark workshop underscores Belize’s commitment to advancing marine spatial planning and achieving the goals set forth by the BSOP, fostering a healthy, resilient, and equitably shared ocean for all Belizeans.

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