Garifuna Collective Begins European Tour

The Government of Belize and UNICEF Belize have launched the country's first comprehensive assessment of how climate change and environmental hazards affect children and other vulnerable groups.

The Climate Landscape Analysis for Children Plus (CLAC+) Report was officially launched on July 17 during a ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Solid Waste Management through its Sustainable Development Unit and Climate Change Department, in partnership with UNICEF Belize.

The report examines how climate change, environmental challenges, energy issues, and disasters impact children, persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, and pregnant and lactating women. It provides evidence-based recommendations aimed at strengthening climate resilience while ensuring national policies and programmes better address the needs of those most vulnerable.

According to the Ministry, the report will serve as a guide for future investments and policy decisions designed to reduce climate-related risks and improve protection for vulnerable communities. It also calls for greater collaboration among government agencies, development partners, civil society, and the private sector to address climate challenges through a coordinated approach.

The recommendations span several key sectors, including health, education, social protection, disaster risk management, environmental management, and sustainable development.