BZ Marine Conservation and Climate Adaptation

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The objective of the Marine Conservation and Climate Adaptation Project for Belize is to implement priority ecosystem-based marine conservation and climate adaptation measures to strengthen the climate resilience of the Belize Barrier Reef System. Specifically, the project will support: (i) improvement of the coral reef protection regime including an expansion and enforcement of the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and replenishment (no-take) zones in strategic locations to build climate resilience, (ii) promotion of sustainable alternative livelihoods and income diversification for affected users of the reef, and (iii) building local capacity and raising awareness regarding the importance of the overall health of the reef ecosystem to its climate resilience and, consequently to community welfare as well as the growth prospect of the country’s economy. The project consists of four components. Component one is aimed at supporting the conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems in the territory of the Recipient. Component two is aimed at promoting economically viable and sustainable alternative livelihoods for communities adversely impacted by climate change and by the expansion and consolidation of Marine Protected Areas and replenishment zones under the Project. Component three is aimed at raising awareness of the impacts of climate change and the value of marine conservation and building local capacity for the adoption of climate resilient practices by, among others, carrying out a climate change knowledge, attitude, and behavioral practice survey, disseminating information about the Project, designing and implementing a coordinated behavior change communication strategy, and supporting inter-community learning and dialogue. Component four is aimed at supporting: (a) Project management and implementation support including technical, administrative and fiduciary support and compliance with 9 environmental and social safeguards; and (b) monitoring and evaluation, data collection, and stakeholder involvement and coordination.