Coastal Zone Authority Utilizes Technology to Combat Marine Plastic Pollution

The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZAI) is using innovative technology to conduct surveys on marine plastic pollution. The CZMAI is working with the Government of the United Kingdom through the Ocean Country Partnership Programme (OCPP), which is aimed at addressing marine pollution challenges. According to the British High Commission, the CZMAI will be using Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), to carry out beach monitoring surveys to monitor marine litter. Israel Correa, GIS Technician with the CZMAI explained that the use of the technology will help the institute to better quantify the level of marine plastic pollution in the identified areas.

Correa noted that trash also washes up on Belize’s shores from other countries due to ocean currents and that the survey will help to differentiate this trash from what is put out locally.

Representatives of the UK government and the Government of Belize will be meeting this month to discuss the progress of the OCPP.