The Belize Network of NGOs is calling for urgent transparency and reform in the granting of long-term logging concessions within Belize's forest reserves. They say the current system, which allows licenses of up to 40 years, lacks critical safeguards to ensure sustainability and public accountability.
They added that there is no requirement for environmental impact assessments or public consultations before approvals are issued and that there is an absence of mandatory training or experience in reduced-impact logging for concession holders. Other concerns include limited resources for the Forest Department to properly monitor compliance, and no standardized or independent mechanisms to assess impacts on biodiversity, water quality, or cultural heritage unless international certification is in place.
The BNN is now calling on the Ministry of Sustainable Development and the Forest Department to meet with community representatives, co-managers, and other stakeholders to clarify the process governing these concessions.
The People's National Party also issued a release in support of the BNN. They are also demanding mandatory environmental clearance, expertise and training requirements, and standardized, independent monitoring.
