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The steady swaying and creak of the boat, the salty sea air, the thrill of pulling in the catch – these were the sounds and smells of Joel Verde’s childhood. Growing up in Sarteneja, a small fishing village in Belize, fishing wasn’t just a job; it was an inseparable part of his identity, passed down from his father and generations before him. Later becoming a fisherman himself, even though for a short while, he recognized a need to connect conservation with this traditional lifestyle. “We were taking more than the ocean could give back. Something had to change.” Today, as Executive Director of the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD), Joel channels his personal insights into action, leading a team of 24 incredible staff members. Together, they work to protect the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and are guided by a simple truth: “Marine conservation is as much about people as it is about ecosystems. If we don’t protect these resources now, there will be nothing left for future generations.” The Role of Sustainable Financing in Conservation The Belize Fund provided BZ$350,000 for a 24-month project. This funding allows SACD to strengthen key conservation activities, including surveillance, education, and biodiversity monitoring. Rangers equipped with essential tools to enforce regulations, while education initiatives foster community awareness and appreciation. “Without this support, sustaining these activities would be challenging,” Joel notes. Belize implemented a historic debt-for-nature swap for ocean conservation. Through this innovative financing initiative, the Belize Fund provides long-term funding to conserve and manage coastal and marine areas. This funding is also helping to achieve critical conservation goals like protecting 30% of Belize’s marine and coastal areas by 2030 and fulfilling the commitments of the Belize Blue Bonds. “Conservation efforts require reliable, ongoing financing,” Joel explains. “This stability is critical for managing marine and coastal ecosystems effectively.” Building Community Relationships When SACD began co-managing Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in 2012, local fishermen were skeptical. They feared losing their traditional fishing grounds. Joel recounts, “It took years to show we weren’t here to take away their rights but to ensure their livelihoods are respected and sustained.” Through persistent engagement, SACD built trust and relationships with the community. “Getting the buy-in from the community was a major milestone,” states Joel. Today, fishermen actively participate in managing the sanctuary, understanding that sustainable practices benefit both their livelihoods and the ecosystem. Joel proudly highlights that their advisory committee, one of the most structured in Belize, provides a platform for collaboration between government representatives and local stakeholders such as fishermen, tourism operators, and conservation groups. “When communities are involved in decision-making processes regarding their resources, they become invested in their sustainability,” emphasized Joel. Local Actions, Global Impact SACD inspires the next generation of conservationists through youth programs like the Junior Mangrove Protectors. “These kids are the future stewards of our marine ecosystems,” Joel says. Activities range from hands-on fieldwork to lessons about mangroves and coral reefs, instilling a lifelong appreciation for nature. Additionally, SACD’s Pesca Tours, led by local fishermen, showcase the value of sustainable fisheries while generating income. Profits support conservation efforts, creating a positive cycle of stewardship and economic benefit. “Healthy marine ecosystems in Belize strengthen resilience against global challenges like climate change,” Joel asserts. “Our work combines livelihoods, biodiversity and climate resilience, setting a model for global conservation efforts.” As part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary supports species of global and economic importance such as manatees, fish, and birds while offering ecosystem services that benefit us all. Challenges and a Vision for the Future As coastal development increases, SACD navigates the delicate balance between growth and conservation. “The upgraded road from Corozal to Sarteneja brings opportunities but also threats like pollution and habitat disruption,” Joel warns. “We’re not anti-development, we want to make sure that Corozal District, particularly Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, is an area where wildlife and livelihoods can thrive.” Looking ahead, SACD’s strategic plan for 2025-2029 envisions a future where communities prosper alongside vibrant ecosystems. “Our vision is to ensure Northern Belize is a place where communities are prosperous, resilient, and benefit from healthy coastal and marine systems,” Joel shares. By fostering a culture of conservation and securing sustainable financing, Joel believes that we can create a generation that understands the importance of sustainability. With the support of his team, SACD remains committed to engaging local communities, recognizing their involvement as vital for long-term success. Written By: Chalsey Gill Anthony, Communications Officer, Belize Fund