Legislation, Policies and Regulations Relevant to Coastal Zone Management in Belize: A Review and Proposals for Better Implementation of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1998

Abstract

The Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Act of Belize was enacted in 1998 and reflects the trend in legislation in Belize toward more accountability and transparency for government actions and more direct participation by the public in decision making, particularly concerning public resources. The legislation also recognizes that conservation and development of the coastal zone necessary to assure sustainable development requires an integrated approach to coastal zone management to deal with the complexities arising from the natural and human interactions in the area where land meets sea. The CZM Act relies, however, on diverse legislation and authorities for implementation, and much of the legislation is outdated and does not reflect the current situation in the country or address the present needs. In Belize, as in most jurisdictions, a great deal of environmental, natural resources and land use legislation preceded the development of a coastal zone management program. And, as in most jurisdictions, coastal zone management has had to take into account these existing authorities. The purpose of this study is to review possibilities for better implementation of the CZM Act of 1998 through integration of sound coastal zone management policy into the planning, policy development and decision making of these authorities. This first section of this paper reviews the laws and regulations of Belize relevant to integrated coastal zone management and discusses some of the perceived strengths and weaknesses, overlaps and gaps in the legislation or its implementation in the context of coastal management. General recommendations for improvement are also included in this discussion. The second part of the paper summarizes recommendations for legislation, regulations and policy development to better achieve integrated coastal zone management. Finally, specific amendments are provided for the Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Act in Appendix I. Appendix II provides a draft proposed policy for Marine National Lands. Appendix III and IV include regulations for implementing several provisions of the CZM Act. Proposed modifications to the Fisheries Bill are included at Appendix V. Appendix VI includes the proposed Marine Dredging Management Policy. Appendix VII contains a review of the current law concerning citizen standing. Appendix VIII discusses a review and recommendations on marine environmental treaties. Appendix IX provides information on the consultation process used in developing this study.