Focusing on People and Nature with ECOLENS
In Belize, practising sustainability and protecting our ecosystems is something we continue to work on every day. Across the country, organisations and government partners are putting in steady effort to ensure Belize remains a place where future generations can live well and thrive.
But this work also comes with real challenges. There are still many voices that need space to share what conservation looks like on the ground—the day-to-day realities, the lessons learned, and what it truly takes to live and work sustainably in Belize.
The ECOLENS Summit: Focusing on People and Nature was created as one of those spaces.
About the EcoLens Summit
The ECOLENS Summit was held at the Belize City Civic Center through a partnership between the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) and the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future.
The event brought together conservation leaders from across Belize to share experiences, exchange knowledge, and reflect on the opportunities and challenges shaping the sector.
A Welcoming Space for Connection
From the moment guests arrived, they were welcomed by staff from both organisations who helped with registration, networking, and settling in.
The venue itself set the tone for the day. Green-themed installations and interactive displays created a calm, nature-inspired atmosphere. Many attendees connected, networked, and captured photos in the decorated spaces.
As participants moved toward the main hall, they were met with immersive sound, visuals, and textures inspired by Belize’s wildlife.
The day officially began with opening remarks from Mr. Abil Castañeda (Executive Director), who set a warm and engaging tone for the summit.
A Full Day of Engagement
- Panel discussions
- Signing ceremonies
- Networking sessions
- Conservation marketplace
- Closing cocktail reception
Each activity encouraged open dialogue and collaboration across the conservation community
Let’s Talk Enforcement
This panel brought together experts to discuss enforcement within Belize’s National Protected Areas System (NPAS). The conversation focused on what is working, current challenges, and how enforcement can be strengthened moving forward.
Panelists shared real experiences from the field and explored practical ways to improve compliance and conservation outcomes.
Moderator:
- Abil Castañeda – Executive Director, PACT
Panelists:
- Heron Moreno Jr – Senior Programs Manager, CSFI
- Nickoli Alvarado – Tour Operator
- Rafael Manzanero – Executive Director, Friends for Conservation and Development
- Leonardo Chavarría – Executive Director, Toledo Institute for Development and Environment
Leading with Science
This panel explored how scientific data supports the management of Belize’s protected areas and how it can better inform decision-making.
Panelists discussed current gaps and opportunities for strengthening science-based conservation planning.
Moderator:
Dr. Leandra Cho-Ricketts – Executive Director, Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future
Panelists:
- Dr. Elma Kay – Managing Director, Belize Maya Forest Trust
- Kirah Forman – Belize National Coordinator, MarAlliance
- Dr. Jake Snaddon – Director, UB-ERI
- Ruben Faux – Blue Water Fishermen’s Association
Hat Tapik: Unlocking Sustainable Financing for Marine Protected Areas
This keynote panel focused on the financial realities of marine conservation, including funding gaps, management costs, and strategies to meet global targets such as 30% ocean protection by 2030.
Key Themes:
- Financing gaps for MPAs
- Strategies to strengthen funding systems
- Long-term solutions for marine protection
Moderator:
- Sabreena Daly – TV Host & News Anchor, Great Belize Media
Panelists:
- Osmany Salas – WWF Mesoamerica
- Alana Godoy – Belize Blue Bonds Director, The Nature Conservancy
- María José González – Executive Director, MAR Fund
- Fabian Kyne – Project Lead, Caribbean Biodiversity Fund
Networking & Marketplace Experience
The marketplace created space for hands-on learning, creativity, and cultural exchange through interactive sustainability experiences.
Booth A
Maya Chocolate Making (Andrea’s Chocolate)
A cultural experience exploring the history and process of chocolate making in Belize.
Booth B
Lionfish Jewellery Making (Belioness)
Turning an invasive species into sustainable, wearable art.
Booth C
Seaweed Soap Making (Barranco Botanics)
Exploring natural ingredients and their benefits in handmade soap.
As the summit came to an end, MAR Fund and the Belize Fund signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking continued collaboration in conservation efforts.
This was followed by a cocktail reception hosted by MAR Fund—a relaxed evening of reflection, connection, and celebration.
Conversations continued throughout the night, with participants sharing ideas and experiences in conservation.
The ECOLENS Summit created space for real conversations, shared learning, and stronger connections across Belize’s conservation community.
And if one thing stood out, it’s that this conversation is only just getting started.