Isla Bonita’s Rapid Development Sparks Environmental Concerns

Is development on La Isla Bonita being sustainably managed? That’s the question many environmentalists are asking as more and more large-scale projects continue to pop up across Ambergris Caye. The island has seen tremendous growth over the past years, particularly along its coast where huge concrete structures have been built. Many islanders feel that the fast-paced development will have negative impacts on the island’s ecosystems and believe that it is not in line with the country’s obligations under the Blue Bonds. Minister of Sustainable Development Orlando Habet weighed in on the criticism today. 

Amid the country’s energy crisis, the island has seen daily limitations on electricity use and hours-long blackouts. That situation has also brought into context whether the island’s development is not being sustainably managed.