Our inaugural Project Mangrove Workshops proved to be a great success. Educators and students from various parts of the country gathered at the University of Belize’s remote Calabash Caye field station to delve into the Ridge to Reef concept, emphasizing the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the pivotal role of mangroves in enhancing climate change resilience. Situated within the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve, approximately 33 nautical miles from Belize City, the field station provided a unique setting. Participants had the opportunity to explore the Marine Reserve’s snorkel trail, a segment of Belize’s extensive barrier reef system, the second largest in the world. Besides snorkeling, the workshop included informative sessions, nature-based activities, and the development of a mangrove curriculum. We are eager to see how the inaugural group of teachers and students will apply their newfound knowledge.
The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a newfound appreciation for the critical role mangroves play in their local environments. Educators reported that the hands-on experiences and the chance to observe these ecosystems firsthand had provided them with valuable insights and teaching strategies they could bring back to their classrooms.
Students, too, were inspired by the immersive experience. They eagerly participated in discussions and collaborated on projects aimed at promoting mangrove conservation. One student remarked, “I never realized how vital mangroves are to our coastlines and marine life. This workshop has opened my eyes to the importance of protecting these incredible ecosystems.”
Plans are already underway for future workshops, with the aim of expanding the program to include more participants and covering additional topics such as sustainable fishing practices, coral reef restoration, and coastal community engagement. By fostering a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship, Project Mangrove Workshops hope to create a ripple effect, inspiring action and awareness across the nation.
The success of these workshops highlights the significance of community involvement in conservation efforts. As we look to the future, we remain committed to empowering educators and students with the tools and knowledge they need to protect our natural world, ensuring that the beauty and biodiversity of places like the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve are preserved for generations to come.
Testimony from participant:
“Opportunities like these only come once in a while for Belizean teachers. The experience of learning from each other and the human interaction was incredibly valuable. What made the experience even more worthwhile was the chance to connect with nature and become one with our environment. Building on these experiences will help us enhance our science programs within our schools, and by extension, make a meaningful impact on Belizean youth that will resonate for years to come. Hopefully, this will chart the way for a better environment for future generations.”
This workshop was made possible by our partnerships with Galen University, the University of Belize and Environmental Research Institute (ERI) Calabash Caye Field Station, and the Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association (TASA). This project and workshop is funded by the CEK Foundation’s Earth Focus Initiative.
