Protection of marine resources in Central America II (Marfund)

completed

The unique, fragile ecosystem of the Mesoamerican coral reef is exposed to a variety of negative influences, mainly caused by humans, such as overfishing and inappropriate tourism. Together with the rise in sea temperature caused by climate change, this has created a serious threat to the continued existence of the region's biodiversity. As part of the supplementary project to Phase I (BMZ No. 2007 66 667), five selected protected areas in the project region (Santuario del Manatí in Mexico, Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, South Water Caye Marine Reserve, both in Belize, Área de Usos Múltiples Río Sarstún in Guatemala and Reserva Marina Turtle Harbour/Rock Harbour in Honduras) were consolidated and the use of natural resources in the adjacent coastal and marine zones was secured in the medium term (module objective). This contributed to preserving the ecological functions of the Mesoamerican coral reef (development policy objective). The project, which was designed as an open program similar to Phase I, focused on improving the management of the protected areas through investments in equipment and monitoring, and supporting the neighboring communities in making the use of marine and coastal resources more sustainable. In addition, the project sponsor Fondo para el Sistema Arrecifal Mesoamericano - Fondo SAM was supported in the exchange of knowledge and insights between the protected areas. The target groups were mainly mestizos and indigenous Garifunas, as well as descendants of immigrant Maya of various ethnic groups. The total cost of the project was EUR 9.3 million. It was financed from an FC grant of EUR 5 million, as well as contributions and services from Fondo Sam and the other participating national partner funds, organizations and institutions.