Safeguards for Resilient Bold Belize & Strengthening ecological and livelihood resilience in the Southern Belize Reef Complex projects

At Earth Empower Consulting, we create meaningful change through strategic partnerships. In the 'Strengthening Ecological and Livelihood Resilience in the Southern Belize Reef Complex' project, funded by the Blue Action Fund (BAF), and the ‘Resilient Bold Belize’ project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), both managed by WWF, we evaluated the impact of conservation efforts on marine and coastal protected areas and local communities, with a focus on gender dynamics and Indigenous rights. 

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Our comprehensive research included reviewing legal frameworks, conducting surveys, and interviewing stakeholders across seven communities, which was a thorough and inclusive process. We interviewed key stakeholders to explore project risks, impacts, and mitigation strategies, ensuring that all voices were heard. We used Excel and Python for quantitative data analysis and Atlas.TI for qualitative data analysis, providing a robust and detailed understanding of the project's landscape.

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As a result of our research, we developed several key documents, including the Environmental and Social Management Framework, Gender Assessment, Gender Action Plan, Stakeholder Engagement Plan, Environmental and Social Code of Practice (ESCOP), Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) Protocol, and Grievance Mechanism.

 

This initiative addresses a critical conservation gap by improving the management of three Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), creating sustainable livelihood opportunities, and restoring mangroves and key coastal ecosystems.