Belize, known for its stunning natural beauty, is also home to rich water resources that are vital for the country’s development and sustainability. However, in an era marked by the increasing impacts of climate change, nations like Belize face challenges in managing its water effectively. The Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum, and Mining, in collaboration with the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) and the Ministry of Economic Development, as the National Designated Authority to the Green Climate Fund, steered the process for the development of a National Adaptation Plan (NAP) for Belize’s water sector. The development of this National Adaptation Plan was made possible through financing from the Green Climate Fund, under the readiness support project titled “National Adaptation Planning for Integrated Water Resources Management in Belize”. The implementation and completion of this Readiness project BLZ-RS-007, National Adaptation Planning for Integrated Water Resources Management in Belize embodies a forward-thinking approach to effectively enhancing the nation’s water security.

On Friday 3rd May, 2024, the CCCCC hosted its Final Project Steering Committee & Closure Meeting, marking the conclusion of a project designed to provide resources for strengthening institutional capacities, governance mechanisms, and planning and programming frameworks in developing countries. These initiatives lay the groundwork for transformative GCF projects, and the development of climate-resilient recovery strategies tailored to the specific mitigation and adaptation needs of the country. The closure meeting, held at the Biltmore Hotel, Belize City, brought together key stakeholders, partners, and project beneficiaries to review achievements, discuss outcomes, and identify next steps as the Government of Belize engages the GCF and other funding sources in support to NAP implementation.

The project facilitated a comprehensive climate impact and coastal influence analysis on Belize’s groundwater resources. Led by the National Hydrological Service, the initiative sought to strengthen the country’s water management systems through strategic investments in observation, monitoring, and forecasting infrastructure. The Water NAP identifies critical gaps that threaten the sustainability of Belize’s water resources, it provides evidence-based policy recommendations and a roadmap aimed at enhancing water security in the country. This initiative will play a crucial role in ensuring the sustainable management of Belize’s water resources, safeguarding them for future generations.

CEO at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum and Mining, Mr Paul Thompson stated, “Belize is recognised as having an adequate supply of freshwater and the availability of this resource is often taken for granted.” He added that model projections show a progressive decrease in rainfall across regions of Belize. In response. Mr. Thompson declared, “The Government of Belize has embarked on several initiatives to advance the knowledge and management of water resources with the establishment of the National Pro Tempore Water Commission (NPTWC) to commencing legislation specifically geared towards achieving sustainable water resource management.”

By investing in state-of-the-art observation and monitoring systems, the project provides decision-makers with real-time data to better understand and respond to the impacts climate change has on the country’s water resources. In pursuit of designing adaptation solutions for maximum impact, the project has also produced valuable evidence through a gender-inclusive and participatory process. This data driven approach offers essential insights to inform the development of effective adaptation solutions. A concept note and pre-feasibility study were developed, outlining strategies to enhance climate resilience in the water and wastewater systems of the country.

During the meeting, representatives provided insight on the project’s achievements and lessons learned. Highlighting the outcomes of the project and the impact it has and will have on local communities.
Looking ahead, Belize is well poised to address the challenges climate change places on its water resources.