Social Factors Affecting Sustainable Shark Conservation and Management in Belize

Shark conservation efforts in Belize face significant challenges due to conflicting perceptions and attitudes among stakeholders, which can undermine collaborative governance. A key finding is that demand for shark meat from neighboring countries, particularly during Lent, drives unsustainable fishing practices, complicating sustainable management. The study used qualitative methods, including key informant interviews and focus groups, to analyze stakeholder perspectives on shark-related activities, attitudes, and their influence on conservation policies. These divergent views highlight the need for a transboundary approach involving Belize, Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras to address shark conservation effectively at the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef scale.

Sabbagh, S. M., & Hickey, G. M. (2019). Social Factors Affecting Sustainable Shark Conservation and Management in Belize. Sustainability, 12(1), 40. https://doi.org/10.3390/su12010040