Belmopan, December 1, 2025.
The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Solid Waste Management marked an important milestone on November 20, 2025, when the House of Representatives completed the second and third readings of the Climate Change and Carbon Market Initiatives Bill, 2025. This legislation represents a major step in reinforcing Belize’s national climate governance system. It establishes the institutions and systems needed to plan, implement, coordinate, and track national climate action. It prioritizes strengthening governance, transparency, and national resilience systems that support Belize’s climate commitments. It also establishes the legal foundation for future participation in carbon market mechanisms, with the operational details to be defined through subsequent regulations.
Once enacted, the Bill will enhance national planning, improve access to climate finance, and support data-driven climate action. It offers important safeguards for communities and landholders who may engage in future climate-related activities and sets national rules that benefit youth, civil society, Indigenous Peoples, and the private sector. As noted by Minister Orlando Habet, “This legislation provides Belize with the tools to protect its people and natural resources while positioning the country to take part in emerging climate and carbon market opportunities.”
Ends
For more information, please contact:
Mrs. Edalmi Pinelo
Chief Climate Change Officer
Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change & Solid Waste Management
Tel: (+501) 828-5960
Email: coord.cc@environment.gov.bz
Website: https://climatechange.gov.bz/
