Document of
The World Bank
Report No:
PROJECT APPRAISAL DOCUMENT
ON A
PROPOSED PROJECT FOR US$15.2 MILLION, INCLUDING A
GRANT FROM THE
GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY TRUST FUND
IN THE AMOUNT OF US$11.0 MILLION EQUIVALENT
TO THE
CENTRAL AMERICAN COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENT AND
DEVELOPMENT
FOR A REGIONAL PROJECT FOR THE
CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF THE
MESOAMERICAN BARRIER REEF SYSTEM (MBRS)
APRIL 5, 2001
Environmentally and Socially Sustainable Development
Central American Department
Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Office

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CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS
Currency Unit = US$
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
CARICOMP Caribbean
Coastal Marine Productivity Program
CAS Country
Assistance Strategy
CBD
Convention on Biological Diversity
CCAD
Central American Commission on Environment and Development (Comisión Cen-
troamericana de Ambiente y Desarrollo)
CEP
Caribbean Environment Program
CFRAMP
Caribbean Fisheries Resource Assessment and Management Project
CITES
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species
CPACC
Caribbean Planning for Adaptation to Climate Change
DANIDA
Danish International Development Agency
EA Environmental
Assessment
EMP
Environmental Management Plan
EIS
Environmental Information System
FAO
UN Food and Agriculture Organization
GCRMN
Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network
GEF
Global Environment Facility
GTZ
German Agency for Technical Cooperation (Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenar-
beit)
IDB
Inter-American Development Bank
IUCN
World Conservation Union
LBSP
Land-Based Sources of Pollution
LME
Large Marine Ecosystem
MARPOL
International Convention for the Prevention of Marine Pollution
MBC
Mesoamerican Biological Corridor
MBRS
Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
MPA
Marine Protected Area
NGO Non-governmental
Organization
PA
Protected Area
PCU
Project Coordination Unit
PY Project
Year
RSC
Regional Steering Committee
SAS
Spawning Aggregation Sites
SICA
System for Central American Integration (Sistema para la Integración Centroamericana)
SPAW
Protocol Concerning Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (Cartagena Convention)
TAC
Technical Advisory Committee
TBDA
Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis
TNC
The Nature Conservancy
TRCA
Threat and Root Cause Analysis
TWG
Regional Technical Working Groups
UNDP
United Nations Development Programme
UNEP
United Nations Environment Programme
URI/CRC
University of Rhode Island/Coastal Resources Center
USAID
United States Agency for International Development
WWF
World Wide Fund for Nature
Vice President: David De Ferranti
Country Director: Donna Dowsett-Coirolo
Sector Director: John Redwood
Task Team Leader: Marea E. Hatziolos

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Central American Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
(MBRS)
CONTENTS
A: Project Development Objective .................................................................................. 2
1. Project development objective and key performance indicators (see Annex 1):........ 2
2. Project global objectives and key performance indicators (see Annex 1):................. 2
B: Strategic Context.......................................................................................................... 3
1 (a). Sector-related Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) goal supported by the Project
(see Annex 1): ................................................................................................................. 3
1 (b). Global operational strategy/program objective addressed by the Project:............ 3
2. Main sector issues and Government strategy: ............................................................ 4
3. Sector issues to be addressed by the Project and strategic choices: ........................... 7
C: Project Description Summary .................................................................................... 8
1. Project components:.................................................................................................... 8
2. Key policy and institutional reforms supported by the Project: ............................... 12
3. Benefits and target population: ................................................................................. 12
4. Institutional and implementation arrangements: (See Annex 2 for a more detailed
discussion of these arrangements) ................................................................................ 14
D: Project Rationale ....................................................................................................... 15
1. Justification for Project design and alternatives considered and reasons for rejection:
15
2. Major related Projects financed by the Bank and/or other development agencies
(completed, ongoing and planned):............................................................................... 17
3. Lessons learned and reflected in proposed Project design: ...................................... 20
4. Indications of recipient commitment and ownership:............................................... 20
5. Value added of Bank and global support in this Project:.......................................... 21
E: Summary Project Analyses ....................................................................................... 22
1. Economic (supported by Annex 4Incremental Cost):............................................... 22
2. Financial: NPV=US$ million; FRR= % ................................................................. 22
3. Technical:.................................................................................................................. 22
4. Institutional: (see Annex 2)....................................................................................... 22
6. Social: ....................................................................................................................... 27
7. Safeguard Policies:.................................................................................................... 29
F: Sustainability and Risks ............................................................................................ 30
1. Sustainability: ........................................................................................................... 30
2. Critical risks (reflecting assumptions in the fourth column of Annex 1): ................ 32
3. Possible controversial aspects:.................................................................................. 32

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G: Main Grant Conditions............................................................................................. 33
1. Effectiveness conditions: .......................................................................................... 33
2. Other ......................................................................................................................... 34
H: Readiness for Implementation.................................................................................. 34
I: Compliance with Bank Policies.................................................................................. 34
I.
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND............................................................. 1
C. Legal and Regulatory Frameworks......................................................................... 9
D. Regional and National-Level Projects and Programs ......................................... 10
A. Marine Protected Areas Management Component ............................................. 11
B. Regional Environmental Information System Component................................. 14
C. Promotion of Sustainable Uses of the MBRS Component .................................. 17
D. Environmental Education and Public Awareness Component .......................... 20
A. Simplified Environmental Impact Assessment .................................................... 27
Annexes
Annex 1.
Project Design Summary
Annex 2.
Detailed Project Description

Table 1.
Proposed Activities for Policy Objectives under the Project

Table 2.
Marine and Coastal Protected Areas to be Support through the MBRS MPA
Component
Annex 3.
Estimated Project Cost
Annex 4.
Incremental Cost Analysis
Annex 5.
Financial Summary
Annex 6:
Procurement and Disbursement Arrangements
Annex 7:
Project Processing Schedule
Annex 8:
Documents in the Project File
Annex 9:
Statement of Loans and Credits
Annex 10:
Country at a Glance
Annex 11:
Environmental Assessment
Annex 12:
Social Assessment
Annex 13:
Transboundary Diagnostic and Threat and Root Cause Analysis Summaries

Matrix 1
Main Threats and Actions Proposed

Matrix 2
Main Transboundary Issues and Actions Proposed

Matrix 3
Current and Planned Regional Projects/Programs Relevant to the MBRS
Annex 14:
Legal, Policy and Institutional Analysis: Executive Summary
Annex 15:
STAP Reviewer's Comments
Annex 16:
Process Framework for Mitigating Economic Displacement Associated with
MPAs
Map . Project Area and Location of Priority MPAs for Project Assistance (separate file)

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Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS)
Central American Commission on Environment and Development
Project Appraisal Document
Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Office, LCC2C
Date: November 4, 2000
Task Team Leader/Task Manager: Marea E. Hatziolos
Country Manager/Director: Donna Dowsett-Coirolo
Sector Manager/Director: John Redwood
Project ID: GE-P053349
Sector: Environment
Program Objective Category: Environmentally Sustainable
Development
Focal Area: Coastal, Marine, and Freshwater Ecosystems
(Operational Program: No. 2) and Integrated Land and
Water Multiple Focal Area Operational Program (Opera-
tional Program: No. 9)
Program of Targeted Intervention:
[] Yes [X] No
Project Financing Data
[ ] Loan
[ ] Credit
[ ] Guarantee
[X] Grant
[] Other [Specify]
For Loans/Credits/Others:
Amount (US$m/SDRm): US$11.0 million
Source
Local
Foreign
Total
Government of Belize
0.9
0.9
1.8
Government of Guatemala
0.3
0.3
0.6
Government of Honduras
0.3
0.3
0.6
Government of Mexico
0.4
0.3
0.7
GEF
4.4
6.6
11.0
Beneficiaries
0.2
0.3
0.5
Sub-total
6.5
8.7
15.2
Other Co-financing1
WWF
2.5
Government of Canada
0.5
Oak Foundation
5.0
University of Miami
1.0
Total
24.2
Recipient: Central American Commission on Environment and Development (CCAD)
Responsible agency: Central American Commission on Environment and Development (CCAD)
Estimated disbursements (Bank FY/US$M):
FY02
FY03
FY04
FY05
FY06
Total
Annual
1.5
3.0
2.8
2.3
1.4
11.0
Cumulative 1.5
4.5
7.3
9.6
11.0
11.0
FY0
Project implementation period: 5 yrs; Expected effectiveness date: June 1, 2001; Expected closing date: June 2006
1The allocation of these co-financing resources to individual subcomponents will be determined through annual
programming. Therefore, the detailed distribution over project subcomponents cannot be shown in project cost
tables within this document.
OSD PAD Form: July 30, 1997

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A: Project Development Objective
1. Project development objective and key performance indicators (see Annex 1):
The Project development objective is to assist the countries of Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and Mex-
ico to manage the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS) as a shared, regional ecosystem; safe-
guard its biodiversity values and functional integrity; and create a framework for its sustainable use.
2. Project global objectives and key performance indicators (see Annex 1):
The global objective of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef Project is to enhance protection of the ecologi-
cally unique and vulnerable marine ecosystems comprising the MBRS, by assisting the littoral states
to strengthen and coordinate national policies, regulations and institutional arrangements for the con-
servation and sustainable use of this global public good.
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, extending from the southern half of the Yucatan Peninsula to
the Bay Islands of Honduras, includes the second longest barrier reef in the world. The MBRS is
unique in the Western hemisphere on account of its size, its array of reef types, and the luxuriance of
corals it contains. The MBRS stabilizes and protects coastal landscapes; maintains coastal water qual-
ity; sustains species of commercial importance; serves as breeding and feeding grounds for marine
mammals, reptiles, fish and invertebrates; and offers employment alternatives and incomes to ap-
proximately one million people living in coastal zones adjacent to the reefs. Associated with the coral
reefs of the MBRS are extensive areas of relatively pristine coastal wetlands, lagoons, seagrass beds
and mangrove forests; these sustain exceptionally high biodiversity and provide critical habitat for
threatened species. The outstanding ecological and cultural significance of the MBRS has resulted in
its designation as a World Heritage site.
The Project would seek to conserve this globally important resource by providing support to
strengthen existing--and create a variety of new--mechanisms to safeguard its integrity and continued
productivity. These include: (i) facilitating the: harmonization of relevant policies and regulations re-
lated to sustainable management of shared/transboundary resources, including reaching agreement on
the establishment of environmental standards for monitoring coastal water quality and other indicators
of coral reef ecosystem health; best practice and regional environmental certification programs for sus-
tainable tourism development, and harmonizing regulations governing harvesting and conservation of
shared fish stocks; (ii) strengthening the system of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) within the MBRS
to maintain vital ecological processes and increase representativeness in the existing system; and (iii)
building capacity through training, environmental education and improved information systems to en-
hance public and private participation in the conservation of the MBRS and the benefits from its sus-
tainable use.
Key performance indicators include:
Regional frameworks in place for management of diverse resources of the MBRS
Biological representation and ecological interconnectivity maintained in coastal and marine eco-
systems throughout the MBRS
Ecoregional approach to MBRS management incorporated into conservation planning at local,
national and regional levels
Heightened awareness of the value of the MBRS and of the benefits from its conservation
Steps towards harmonization of relevant policies and legislation regarding MPA management in
transboundary areas, sustainable fisheries management; sustainable tourism development; and pro-
tection of coastal water quality agreed and initiated in all four countries
Fora for regional cooperation at technical and policy levels operational
2

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B: Strategic Context
1 (a). Sector-related Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) goal supported by the Project (see Annex 1):
(i) Mexico
CAS document number: 19289
Date of latest CAS: May 13, 1999
(ii) Belize
CAS document number: 20708
Date of latest CAS: September 5, 2000
(iii) Guatemala CAS document number: 18036
Date of latest CAS: June 19, 1998
(iv) Honduras CAS document number: 19893
Date of latest CAS: November 19, 1999
Common Sector Goals among MBRS Countries: Reduce poverty; increase environmental security,
accelerate economic growth in rural areas, and increase effectiveness of the public sector and its poli-
cies.
The Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) for Mexico identifies three core themes for World Bank
Group assistance to Mexico: social sustainability, removing obstacles to sustainable growth, and effec-
tive public governance. Within this broad framework, the CAS identifies a few priority areas for Bank
involvement in the Environment Sector, including institutional development and decentralization of
environmental management, better management of natural resources (e.g., forests, water and biodiver-
sity), and assistance in the design of sector policies.
Guatemala, Honduras and Belize share similar CAS goals of reducing rural poverty through improved
environmental security and better management of natural resources. Building social capital through
information networking, training and broader participation of local stakeholders in the management of
resources is identified as a complementary goal among the three countries. The Project would support
these goals by first promoting a regional vision of ecosystem sustainability and productivity. It would
support public awareness about the importance of the MBRS as a world-class resource, its importance
to the cultural and economic future of the region, as well as its role as a vital component of the bio-
sphere. The Project would further seek to reduce fragmentation at the national and regional levels in
the governance of the MBRS by improving regional information systems for decision-making and
harmonizing policy frameworks across the four countries in line with principles of environmental and
social sustainability.
Such policy cohesion would lay the groundwork for regional cooperation in the adoption of agreed
protocols for conservation and sustainable use--particularly in productive sectors such as tourism and
fisheries. In line with this, the Project would promote region-wide adoption of best practice in sustain-
able marine tourism through disseminating codes of conduct, providing training and resources for their
application and establishing regional environmental certification systems. This, coupled with opportu-
nities for coastal communities to engage in small and medium enterprise and alternative livelihood
schemes linked to ecotourism, should lead to higher incomes, sustainable economic growth and reduc-
tion in rural poverty­CAS goals in all four countries.
1 (b). Global operational strategy/program objective addressed by the Project:
The proposed Project supports the objectives of the GEF Operational Strategy and the Operational
Program for Biodiversity for Coastal, Marine, and Freshwater Ecosystems (O.P. No. 2). It also sup-
ports a number of Articles of the Convention on Biological Diversity and its provision for conserva-
tion of marine biodiversity under the Jakarta Mandate. These include Article 8 (in-situ conservation),
and Article 10 (sustainable use of components of biodiversity). The Project does this by promoting an
ecosystem approach to the conservation and management of a transboundary aquatic ecosystem of
global importance. It aims to facilitate regional cooperation and coordination in the design and imple-
3

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mentation of measures to ensure the ecological integrity and continued productivity of a Large Marine
Ecosystem (LME), which includes both World Heritage and Ramsar sites within its boundaries.
In addition, the Project encourages cooperation between governmental authorities and the private sec-
tor in developing methods for sustainable uses of biological resources. It would build partnerships at
the local, national and transnational levels through support for non-governmental organizations
(NGOs), professional associations and cooperatives (e.g., in the tourism and fisheries sectors) and
governmental institutions (e.g., sectoral ministries, coastal authorities and intergovernmental bodies
such as the Central American Commission on Environment and Development). At the local level, the
Project would strengthen the involvement of civil society in conservation efforts through environ-
mental education and measures to enhance benefit sharing by local communities. These efforts include
support for training in new livelihood skills, increased capture of resource rents, (e.g., user fees, tourist
and green taxes) and co-management arrangements for protected areas (PA).
This Project also responds to objectives of the Integrated Land and Water Multiple Focal Area Opera-
tional Program for International Waters (O P 9). It does so by addressing resource management issues
at the interface of land/water systems through an integrated approach that includes a broad range of
interventions. These include establishing a uniform protocol for monitoring water quality along the
coast, with special emphasis on pollution hot spots in transboundary areas; improving regional data
collection to assess productivity of commercially important stocks and status of threatened species;
and harmonizing regulations related to the harvesting and protection of these species and regulations
to minimize the loss of critical breeding and nursery habitats.
2. Main sector issues and Government strategy:
A Threat and Root Cause Analysis (TRCA) was completed during Project preparation, which revealed
the following major threats to the sustainability of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (See Annex
13):
Coastal/island development and rapidly expanding tourism
Inappropriate upstream land and resource use, and industrial development
Overfishing and unregulated aquaculture development
Uncontrolled port, shipping and navigation practices
Climato-meteorological phenomena associated with changes in ocean currents, sea surface tem-
peratures, storm intensity, precipitation, and vulnerability to disease, in all probability linked to
climate change.
The cumulative impact of these combined threats--both anthropogenic and "natural"--is a growing
cause for alarm. That these threats are common to the four countries bordering the MBRS emphasizes
the transboundary nature of factors that influence habitats and resources, and the dynamic nature of the
processes (e.g., recruitment, predation, nutrient transport and disease) that determine the system's re-
silience and sustainability.
Associated with these threats are underlying conditions that may be regarded as root causes or con-
straints that prevent governments from adequately addressing the immediate threats to the health of the
MBRS. These include the following:
4

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Lack of information on the status of the MBRS and on economic, environmental and social trade-
offs associated with various use regimes
At the regional level, absence of system wide mechanisms or legal frameworks to manage the eco-
system as a whole; at the sub-national and local levels, sectoral fragmentation in the management
of habitats and resources of the MBRS
Lack of public awareness of the value of the MBRS
Lack of coherent policies; inconsistency in environmental standards and in the application of
existing standards related to EIA, land use planning/zoning, water quality, polluter pays
e
principl
Inadequate protection of critical elements and ecological processes essential to the integrity and
continued productivity of the MBRS
Lack of trained personnel.
Issues and Gaps
Information Gaps: Undermining management efforts in all four countries is the basic lack of informa-
tion on the status of the MBRS. Although monitoring efforts are underway in selected areas, reliable
information is required to provide a synoptic view of the system as a whole, determine the origin and
scope of common threats, and form a basis for regional cooperation in the management of a shared
resource. A prime example of this information gap exists with regard to fisheries. Inadequate informa-
tion on commercially important stocks has led to the issuing of quotas and user permits on a frag-
mented basis, without regard for total system yields or allowable harvest. Intense fishing pressure by
individual nations is threatening the viability of economically important stocks like lobster and conch,
once plentiful in the waters of the MBRS. Another serious constraint is the absence of water quality
data for the principal coastal drainages of the MBRS. The production of citrus fruits and banana in the
Rio Hondo watershed, between Mexico and Belize, is thought to be a major source of non-point pollu-
tion in the Bay of Chetumal. This, along with point sources from industry and expanding human set-
tlements, have made Chetumal a major pollution hot spot in the transboundary area between Mexico
and Belize. Quantification of this pollution will be essential to identifying its source and mitigating its
effects.
Policy Gaps and Fragmentation. At the national level, fragmentation in coastal resource management
is manifested in the lack of an integrated approach to economic development within coastal areas (e.g.,
tourism, fisheries, agriculture, infrastructure) and the failure to incorporate environmental and social
costs into economic decision-making. This is particularly true in the tourism industry, manifested by
rapid and chaotic growth along the corridor from Cancun to Chetumal in Quintana Roo, in the Bay
Islands of Honduras, and on many of the cays along the Belize Barrier Reef (Map 1). Examples in-
clude conversion of coastal habitat for large tourist installations, dredging of channels and bays for the
expanding cruise ship industry, and inadequate waste management facilities in tourist centers and
ports. The latter increases the stress on already over-extended municipal services for wastewater and
sanitation. Tourism has also contributed to the local demise of conch, lobster and finfish populations.
Of special concern is the overexploitation of breeding aggregations of Nassau Grouper, an important
predator on the reef. Once virtually unknown, these aggregation sites have become increasingly vul-
nerable to harvesting by artisanal fishers, leading to significant changes in biological community struc-
ture and ecology of reefs within the system. Lack of information on sources and sites of development
impacts downstream contributes to the absence of uniform standards with regard to effluent and re-
ceiving water quality, lack of rigor and consistency in the application of environmental impact as-
5

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sessment to coastal development projects, and in the permitting and enforcement regime governing
resource harvests. This had led to distortions in the distribution of MBRS benefits and costs, thereby
eliminating disincentives for unsustainable use.
Lack of Public Awareness: Contributing to the fragmented approach to coastal resource management
and to unsustainable use practices is the lack of public awareness of the intrinsic value of the MBRS
and of the costs of inadequate protection in terms of loss of goods and services it provides. Creating
this awareness will be essential to building and maintaining a constituency of support for national and
regional level actions required to ensure the sustainability of the MBRS.
Inadequate Protection of Marine Biodiversity: Despite efforts by the four countries to expand the sys-
tem of marine reserves within their national waters, protection of the key habitats and biological com-
munities that comprise the MBRS and of the processes that ensure its integrity and productivity--and
contribute to its resilience--is still inadequate. Knowledge of system boundaries, of the locations and
linkages between source reefs and sink reefs (often in different countries) and the factors that affect
them, is limited. Coordination between countries in the management of adjacent or transboundary
habitats is ad hoc or non-existent. Finally, the availability of trained personnel in coral reef monitoring
and in the essential tools of marine protected area management is uneven, hindering coordination
across countries and severely limiting management effectiveness within several MBRS countries.
Governments' strategy
Recognizing, on the one hand, the importance of the MBRS to the economy of the region and to the
natural and cultural heritage of its people, and the increasing threats to its overall health on the other,
the leaders of the four countries bordering the MBRS convened in Tulum, Mexico in June 1997 to
pledge their commitment to protecting this outstanding resource. The Tulum Declaration called on the
four littoral states of the MBRS and its partners in the region to join in developing an Action Plan for
its Conservation and Sustainable Use. The Central American Commission on Environment and Devel-
opment (known hereafter by its Spanish initials, CCAD), comprised of the Ministers of Environment
of the seven Central American countries and Mexico (as an observer), approached the GEF through
the World Bank to request support for the design of the Plan and a strategy for its implementation.
With PDF Block A and Block B funds from the GEF and technical support from the World Bank,
IUCN, and WWF, CCAD convened a multi-stakeholder workshop and subsequent working groups of
scientists, managers, governmental and non-governmental representatives from the four participating
countries to draft an Action Plan for management of the MBRS.
The Action Plan, which provides the basis for a comprehensive, 15-year program of regional and na-
tional level activities aimed at safeguarding the integrity and productivity of the MBRS, was adopted
in June 1999. Regional activities outlined in the Action Plan focus on four thematic areas: (1) Re-
search and Monitoring, (2) Legislation, (3) Capacity Building, and (4) Regional Coordination. Specific
regional activities include the establishment of a regional system of Marine Protected Areas to ensure
the representativeness of MBRS ecosystems and the overall functionality of the barrier reef system
within a protected area framework; the design and implementation of a regional program to monitor
MBRS health; the mapping of coastal environments using GIS; monitoring of MBRS `indicator spe-
cies' such as the Nassau Grouper; the exploration of more sustainable alternatives to fishing; design
and establishment of a regional database on MBRS resources and dissemination of information; de-
velopment of a tourism Environmental Certification Program for the MBRS region; the establishment
of bi-national and tri-national commissions to facilitate policy dialogue, harmonization of legislation
and the management of natural resources in trans-border areas; training for personnel and infrastruc-
ture support to institutions along the MBRS; development of a communication strategy; and stimula-
tion of participation by local communities and ethnic groups in issues related to the management of
MBRS resources.
6

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At the national level, activities are also dispersed across four thematic areas: (1) Monitoring and Re-
search, (2) Sustainable Use, (3) Capacity Building of National Institutions, and (4) Inter-sectoral Co-
ordination. National activities outlined in the Plan are not the same in all MBRS countries, depending
on the need and capacities within each country in the context of a particular area. Specific national
activities include the development of a bio-physical and socio-economic inventory of MBRS re-
sources; assessment of the dependence of tourism and fisheries on MBRS resources; designation of
new Marine Protected Areas to increase ecosystem representation; creation of legal instruments to fa-
cilitate the co-management of Marine Protected Areas; implementation of actions to protect key spe-
cies such as manatees, turtles and crocodiles; creation of the legal and institutional framework to en-
sure sustainable management of fisheries and tourism, including enforcement mechanisms for existing
laws; identification, control and monitoring of sources of pollution of the MBRS, including liquid and
solid waste; implementation of international Conventions relating to biodiversity and sustainable use
of natural resources; and design and implementation of pilot projects in Integrated Coastal Zone Man-
agement. To promote these activities and facilitate coordination in the implementation of regional
elements of the Action Plan, National Barrier Reef Committees were established in each country.
It is the regional aspects of this plan that form the basis of the current proposal to the GEF. The four
countries' commitment to jointly develop an Action Plan for management of the MBRS and their will-
ingness to collaborate in addressing regional threats and common problems, signal a shift in attitude
toward a collective strategy to safeguard the sustainability of this shared public good.
3. Sector issues to be addressed by the Project and strategic choices:
In light of this commitment, and the existing gap in mechanisms and resources to promote such re-
gional cooperation, the Project will focus on transboundary threats to the MBRS and the coordinated
actions required to address these. A review of the key sector issues and underlying constraints sug-
gested strategic investments in the following areas:
Establishment and consolidation of a system of Marine Protected Areas that is representative of the
biological diversity of the MBRS and which safeguards the processes and conditions required to
maintain ecological linkages between components of the MBRS and their continued productivity
Training and capacity building in agreed protocols for marine ecosystem monitoring and manage-
ment, and dissemination of information to inform decision-making
Steps towards the harmonization of policies and legislation governing the use of shared coastal and
marine resources.
Supporting these actions requires parallel investments in environmental education and public aware-
ness, and in the institutional arrangements to ensure regional coordination and sustainability in their
implementation.
The GEF Project will, therefore, assist the four countries bordering the MBRS to: (i) strengthen exist-
ing MPAs in transboundary locations and other key sites; (ii) develop and implement a standardized
regional monitoring and environmental information system for the MBRS; (iii) promote measures to
reduce non-sustainable patterns of resource use in the MBRS, focusing initially on the fisheries and
tourism sectors; (iv) increase local and national capacity for environmental management through edu-
cation, information sharing and training; and (v) strengthen and coordinate national policies, regula-
tions, and institutional arrangements for marine ecosystem conservation and sustainable use.
In light of the long-term nature of the goals and objectives implied in the MBRS Action Plan and sup-
ported under this project, a second strategic choice was made to design the initiative within the context
7

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of a long-term regional program, involving a range of potential partners and stakeholders in a phased
approach. This project, therefore, represents Phase 1 of a proposed 15-year Program to achieve the
objective of the MBRS Action Plan. Although the Project has been designed as the first phase of a
long-term program to achieve a series of ecosystem management, capacity building and regional pol-
icy objectives, this proposal requests financing from the GEF for the initial phase only.
These will likely target upstream linkages related to land-based sources of degradation of the MBRS,
including strengthening links to the terrestiral MBC Program and longer term measures required to
bring relevant legislation and enforcement in each of the four countries in line with agreed regional
norms.
C: Project Description Summary
Project Component
Sector
Cost Incl.
% of
GEF
% of GEF-
Contingencies*
Total
Financing
financing
(US$M)
(US$M)
Marine Protected Areas
Environment
5.0
33
2.7
24
Regional Environmental
Environment
4.4
29
2.8
26
Information System
Promoting Sustainable Use
ESSD
1.9
12
1.7
16
Public Awareness &
Environment
1.5
10
1.4
12
Environmental Education
Regional Coordination/Project
Environment
2.4
16
2.4
22
Management
Total
15.2
100
11.0
100
*Costs only include GEF and country counterpart contributions. They do not include $9 m in parallel co-financing from
other donors which will be programmed across Project components annually. See cover sheet.
The proposed GEF initiative responds to the countries' expressed need for a more holistic approach to
managing a shared coastal ecosystem. The Project will create an enabling environment for harmoniza-
tion of relevant policies and standards governing the use of shared resources. It will disseminate
knowledge about the status and value of the MBRS and ensure adequate technical skills across the
four countries to support implementation of agreed conservation and management interventions. These
regional measures would also be in line with national commitments of the four countries to interna-
tional Conventions such as the Cartagena Convention and its protocols (SPAW and LBSP),
MARPOL, the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries and the Convention on Biological
Diversity, and the enforcement of existing national legislation and policies in support of conservation
of the MBRS.
1. Project components:
Component 1. Marine Protected Areas (US$5.0 million)
Sub-component A. Planning, Management, and Monitoring of Marine Protected Areas (MPA)
Sub-component B. Institutional Strengthening
Many MPAs in the MBRS exist only on paper and have little or no on-site management. Moreover, a
significant number of MPAs lack up-to-date Master and Operational plans and the associated basic
infrastructure and equipment needed for their implementation. Even where management plans are in
place, there are rarely the monitoring programs needed to detect changes in biodiversity status and
other indicators of the effectiveness of protected area management. Also there is almost a universal
absence of sound social and economic analysis, financial strategies and fundamental skills required of
staff to carry out their core responsibilities. In some countries in the MBRS, given the lack of capacity
and trained personnel, public authorities have delegated primary responsibility for MPA management
8

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to NGOs. The project seeks to enhance the capacity of those public sector and non-governmental enti-
ties charged with managing marine protected areas through training and technical assistance in the de-
velopment of MPA management plans, and to assess management effectiveness through an MPA
monitoring program. The monitoring program will include, in addition to assessment of biophysical
indicators related to environmental health and conservation, evaluation of socio-economic objectives
of MPA management in line with the improving livelihoods of surrounding communities.
Support under the MPA component will focus on investments geared toward immediate improvements
in MPA protection and management. These include:
Establishment of MPA Data Baselines and Monitoring Programs
Development of Management Plans for MPAs
Basic Equipment and Infrastructure for MPA Plan Implementation
Transboundary Cooperation in Policy, Protection, and Management of MPAs.
Support will be limited to a total of fifteen MPAs. Eleven of these are already legally established in
the MBRS region, while four proposed MPA sites remain to be designated. Criteria for selection of
these 15 sites to receive project support, were based on the significance of the protected area in con-
tributing to MBRS ecosystem characteristics, diversity and processes, and their potential importance
as demonstration models for effective protected area management and transboundary cooperation.
(See Annex 2 for a table and map of these sites.) . The majority of the MPAs (9) are located in the
two transboundary areas of the MBRS, the Bay of Chetumal and Gulf of Honduras. In the transbound-
ary areas themselves, there are several MPAs that are separated by national boundaries and managed
as separate units. Two of these bi-national MPA complexes, (Xcalak/Bacalar Chico, and Sarstoon-
Temash/Sarstún ) situated in the Mexico-Belize and Belize-Guatemala transboundary areas, respec-
tively, will be assisted through the Project with the additional objective of promoting a bi-national ap-
proach to their management. Support for development of Management Plans will be selective and
based on need. Since long-term management plans exist or are already being developed in 11 of the
15 MPAs, assistance to these sites will be for development of 2 year operational plans (see Annex 2)
for a detailed discussion. Only the four sites with no management plans will receive support for the
development of 10 year management plans as well as 2 year operational plans, thereby focusing re-
sources where they are needed most. All of these MPAs have or will be established within a frame-
work of multiple use. This includes a core, no-take zone designed to protect the most sensitive and
vulnerable biodiversity and ecological processes essential to ecosystem sustainability, surrounded by
areas of different but compatible use, including, inter alia, low-impact tourism, prescribed fishing, and
various forms of reef based aquaculture consistent with local resources and conditions, demand and
assessed carrying capacity. Management regimes established under these proposed MPAs sites will
serve as regional models for replication and expansion to other protected areas during the Program's
future phases. Parallel co-financing of this component from WWF, through their Mesoamerican Eco-
regional Project is being targeted toward determination of sub-system boundaries, resource invento-
ries, priorities for MPA management, and evaluation of management effectiveness.
To address the substantial institution building needs in MPA management, regional training courses
and workshops for protected area directors, technical staff, rangers, and key collaborators from local
and national government agencies, collaborating NGOs and local communities, will be supported un-
der a second sub­component for institutional strengthening. This sub-component will also provide
support for a basic standardized training library to all MPA headquarters and ranger stations through-
out the MBRS region (approximately fifty offices). This would facilitate continual professional im-
provement for MPA field staff, who often lack even minimal access to training manuals, natural his-
tory publications, and other books on themes relevant to MPA management programs.
9

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Component 2. Regional Environmental Information System (US$4.4 million)
Sub-component A. Creation and Implementation of a Distributed, Web-based EIS
Sub-component B. Establishment of a Synoptic MBRS Monitoring Program
A principal objective of the component is to develop a reliable base of data for the MBRS eco-region
and an information system that can be used to support more informed management decisions. The es-
tablishment of a regional environmental information system (EIS) will provide an essential tool to or-
ganize and manage data in support of improved decision-making. In the Program's initial phase, the
objective of the EIS component will be to provide the basic framework to guide the collection, proc-
essing, distribution and utilization of data, both bio-physical and socio-economic. This EIS will be
linked to Component 4, Public Awareness and Environmental Education. Specifically, the component
will assist in the design and implementation of a bi-lingual EIS whose architecture will allow broad
access to policy makers, technicians, and the public at large. Significant collaboration has been
achieved with WWF, the ICZM Authority in Belize, Amigos de Sian Ka'an, Mexico and the Univer-
sity of Miami, Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Studies, in consolidating data into a re-
gional GIS for production of digitized maps and overall contribution to the proposed regional EIS.
This collaboration will continue during Project implementation. Data from NOAA and USGS on vul-
nerability mapping related to climate change will also be obtained for inclusion in the EIS.
To feed into the EIS, this component will also support the establishment of a regional and issue-
specific monitoring program that will generate information on the region's oceanographic current re-
gime and its influence on the status and processes of MBRS reefs and other critical ecosystems. Data
will be collected on reproduction, larval dispersal, and recruitment of corals, fish, and other important
reef components to further our understanding of ecological linkages between reefs and other marine
environments, and processes which influence reef integrity. Substantial parallel co-financing from
WWF, the Government of Canada and University of Miami has been earmarked for investigators
working in the region to expand the scope of this research. The Canadian grant is dependent on ap-
proval of the GEF grant.
Component 3. Promoting Sustainable Use of the MBRS (US$1.9 million)
Sub-component A. Promotion of Sustainable Fisheries Management
Sub-component B. Facilitation of Sustainable Coastal and Marine Tourism
There is growing evidence that non-sustainable resource use practices in aggregate are beginning to
affect the overall health of the MBRS. The objective of this component is to support the introduction
of new policy frameworks and management tools to increase institutional capacity, disseminate key
information and create the necessary incentives for stakeholders to shift toward patterns of sustainable
use of MBRS resources. This component will initially focus on the two most important and potentially
harmful economic sectors dependent on the MBRS, fishing and tourism.
The fisheries sub-component will address some of the causes of overfishing by supporting: (i) moni-
toring and management of spawning aggregation sites, (ii) improved institutional capacity in sustain-
able fisheries management, and (iii) promotion of alternative livelihood systems. The last includes
training fishermen in kayaking, catch and release fly-fishing, SCUBA and recreational water sports
and tour guide operations associated with Marine Protected Areas and other tourist destinations.
These tour operations have been successfully piloted in fishing communities in Southern Belize with
the support of local NGOs. This component and the one below will be closely linked to mitigation of
economic displacement (as defined under the Bank's safeguard Policy OD 4.3 on Involuntary Reset-
tlement ) that may occur in the context of MPA establishment and enforcement (see Annex 16). This
sub-component will be complemented by parallel financing from the Oak Foundation (US$600K) for
fisheries co-management arrangements in relation to MPAs and for related policy reform.
10

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The objective of the tourism sub-component is to formulate and facilitate the application of policy
guidelines and best practice models for sustainable coastal and marine tourism in the four countries of
the MBRS. Adoption of industry codes of conduct may then lead to regionally recognized certification
schemes for tourist operations and eventually entire destinations within the MBRS. Activities under
this sub-component include: Regional Policy Dialogue and Cooperative Action Forum; Catalogue of
Exemplary Practices;1 a Regional Environmental Certification Program; and a Marine Tourism Exem-
plary Practices Study Tour.
Component 4. Public Awareness and Environmental Education (US$1.5 million)
Sub-component A. Development of an Environmental Awareness Campaign
Sub-component B. Formal and Informal Education
A critical element in developing the political will and policies required to manage the MBRS sustaina-
bly will be building the necessary public support to catalyze change. The objective of this component
is to create a constituency for conservation of the MBRS in the region. This will be done by increasing
awareness of the value of the MBRS and fostering an understanding among the general public of the
impacts of development on this world-class resource. Through information networking and discussion
fora, it will seek to introduce environmental and social sustainability criteria into decision-making.
Activities under this component include establishment of an MBRS database and information clear-
inghouse (linked to Components 2 and 3), production and dissemination of education materials, and
regional workshops and conferences for professionals in the industrial and tourism sectors that directly
affect MBRS resources. It will also provide training for community leaders who exert strong influence
on MBRS stakeholders.
Regional Coordination and Project Management (US$2.4 million)
The MBRS Program will be coordinated under an organizational framework that balances regional
and national representation across the four participating countries. At the policy level, the Program
will be coordinated by the MBRS Regional Steering Committee (RSC), made up of representatives
from CCAD and the participating National Barrier Reef Committees. The RSC will provide overall
policy guidance on objectives of the Program, and coordinate the participation of national, regional,
and international government and NGO counterpart organizations in its implementation. The RSC will
liaise with other potential partners within and outside the region to attract additional co-financing for
the program over the long term. It will review and approve annual work plans and resolve coordina-
tion issues that may arise between countries. The RSC will be supported by a Technical Advisory
Committee (TAC) composed of internationally recognized experts in the fields relevant to MBRS
Program objectives. The TAC will be responsible for advising the PCU on technical matters which
may arise during the implementation of the Program. Members will provide technical input for the
design and review of annual work programs and serve as information gateways to state of the art man-
agement, good practice, and professional networks in the areas of MPA management, sustainable
coastal tourism, regional fisheries management, coral reef ecosystem monitoring and EIS, and envi-
ronmental education and outreach. The TAC will also serve as an "honest-broker" to the PCU with
respect to resolution of technical issues under the Project that may be particularly contentious. The
TAC will provide advice on an as-needed basis and will convene electronically to provide timely input
to annual work plans. A Program Coordination Unit (PCU) will be responsible for direct implemen-
tation of the Program, with technical support provided by Regional Technical Working Groups
(TWG) made up of appropriately selected representatives from the National Barrier Reef Committees
1 "Exemplary" refers to those practices that have been shown to produce superior results; elected by a systematic process;
and judged as exemplary, good, or successfully demonstrated. The practices then need to be adapted to fit a particular organi-
zation and are practiced by exemplary operators.
11

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and supporting local institutions. These will be complemented by regional/international consultants on
an "as-needed" basis.
2. Key policy and institutional reforms supported by the Project:
The key policy reforms promoted by the Project will be agreement on and initiation of steps toward
regional harmonization of the policy and regulatory framework surrounding the use of shared re-
sources of the MBRS and the protection of vital elements and processes essential to its health and pro-
ductivity. These steps include institutional arrangements (such as creation of regional fora for techni-
cal and policy dialogue, dispute resolution, local governance initiatives, including participatory man-
agement by local communities of resources associated with adjacent MPAs), an informed public and
political constituency, regional codes of conduct, and draft regulations in support of harmonized poli-
cies and legislation related to:
Establishment, management and enforcement of Marine Protected Areas
Sustainable harvesting of commercially valuable species of shellfish and finfish and protection of
threatened and endangered species, (e.g., sea turtles, manatees, black coral)
Consistency in scope and application of environmental impact assessment; land use planning and
zoning in coastal areas, particularly as they relate to tourism
Adoption of best practice and a regional environmental certification system for the tourism indus-
try
Standards and maintenance of coastal water quality and a region-wide reporting system.
A Policy Working Group will support reforms in these key areas by assisting the regional TWGs to
formulate policy recommendations related to these issues and ensuring that these are raised through
the CCAD for consideration at the highest levels of decision-making.
Institutional reforms supported by the Project include creation of a mechanism for regional dialogue
and coordination in the management and monitoring of the MBRS as a shared, transboundary public
good; the establishment and maintenance of multi-stakeholder coral reef committees, which reflect
diversity in culture and gender in each country to promote integrated sectoral planning and manage-
ment of the barrier reef; and a formal process of consultation and ownership in the design and imple-
mentation of a long-term program to conserve the MBRS. These reforms will help build institutional
capacity in the region and enhance the sustainability of efforts to protect and manage the marine ele-
ments of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor (MBC).
3. Benefits and target population:
Project benefits mainly revolve around conservation outcomes and opportunities for sustainable use of
the MBRS and its resources. These are the result of a system-wide approach to coastal and marine re-
source management that enhances regional cooperation, uniform and high performance standards and
sustainability of outcomes. The Project's transboundary focus fills a gap created by historically na-
tional and sector specific management interventions. Beneficiaries of the Project include:
The region and the global environment, through protection of important biodiversity and other
vital environmental goods and services
12

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The four countries bordering the MBRS (e.g., Belize, Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico), which
may use environmental diplomacy to advance regional economic integration objectives under the
Central American System of Integration (Sistema de Integracion Centroamericano-SICA), of
which CCAD is a part.
Local populations currently dependent on the resources of the MBRS, or those whose livelihoods
may be affected by the creation of Marine Protected Areas, and which could be improved through
access to new opportunities for sustainable enterprises based on the resources of the MBRS. These
beneficiaries include indigenous groups, such as Garífuna communities along the coasts of Belize,
Honduras and Guatemala; Mayan communities in frontier areas between southern Belize and Gua-
temala; Miskito communities along the southernmost margins of the MBRS; and Ladino popula-
tions who have moved in more recently to coastal areas and tourism destinations in search of em-
ployment, who may be in conflict with more traditional MBRS resource users. Women in all these
groups represent a subset of beneficiaries who will be targeted under the Project. While traditional
use has focused primarily on fishing and coastal agriculture, many of the communities, and par-
ticularly women, have expressed interest in becoming involved in tourism--either cultural or na-
ture-based--in association with Marine Protected Areas. Training in alternative livelihood
schemes would be both gender and culturally oriented.
Fishing cooperatives (such as the Belize Fishermen Cooperative Association, the National Fish-
ermen Cooperative, the Placencia Cooperative, and Asociacion de Pescadores de Manabique),
which would benefit from improved information on resource states and non-destructive fishing
methods, and consistency in the timing and enforcement of closed seasons and no-take reserves in
transboundary areas of the MBRS.
NGOs (such as TIDES, Belize Audubon Society, Green Reef, BELPO, Fundacion Mario Dary,
FUNDAECO, Honduras Coral Reef Fund, PROLANSATE, BICA, Amigos de Sian Ka'an,
ECOSUR as recipients of equipment, information and training, etc.); the scientific community,
which will benefit from the information within the EIS; etc.
Private sector, including the tourism industry (through study tours in best practice, a regional envi-
ronmental certification program, discussion fora with industry counterparts in the region), fisheries
and cruise ship industries, etc.
Donor community, through strategic programming of resources and improved coordination in pro-
ject/program implementation to achieve greater regional impacts
Regional institutions, like CCAD, which will be strengthened through increased synergy among
projects implemented under the MBC umbrella, decentralized project coordination units, and im-
proved information access and outreach.
Specific Project benefits include the following:
Improvements in MPA networks, monitoring and management with emphasis on sustainability of
efforts (includes basic equipment and infrastructure to implement management plans)
Enhanced capacity in the region to monitor health of the MBRS and make information available to
decision-makers/policy-makers and to stakeholders at the local level
Improved livelihoods for local communities through better environmental management, skills and
entrepreneurship training, education and technologies for sustainable income generation
13

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A regional constituency for conservation of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System as part of the
MBC
Mechanisms for sustained regional cooperation in managing the MBRS at the policy, information
and technical levels
Improvements in the overall health of the MBRS environment, as measured through proxies like
water quality, biological community stability, biological productivity, local recovery from periodic
disturbances, etc.).
4. Institutional and implementation arrangements: (See Annex 2 for a more detailed discussion of
these arrangements)
CCAD will be the implementing agency for the MBRS Program and will oversee execution by the
PCU of the five year Project proposed during Phase 1 (see Figure 1). Additional resources have been
allocated toward strengthening the technical and supervisory capacity of CCAD HQ in San Salvador
in the administration of this project. This includes the hiring of a technical staff member to oversee
project execution and to liaise with Senior Management on policy issues requiring the attention of
CCAD members (e.g., the Council of Environment Ministers). As part of this liason role, closer inte-
gration with the terrestrial regional Mesoamerican Biological Corridor Program implemented by
CCAD will be sought, as well as links to Bank implemented MBC projects at the national level, where
relevant. To assist CCAD in integrating environmental concerns into the larger development context
of the region, the Bank in its dialogue with clients will highlight the role of CCAD in mainstreaming
environment and the need to ensure CCAD's institutional sustainability. At the policy level, the Pro-
ject will be coordinated by a Regional Steering Committee (the RSC) made up of the Executive Sec-
retary of CCAD or his delegate, and the National Coordinator for the MBRS Project in each country.
The regional PCU, based in Belize, will be responsible for direct implementation of the five year Pro-
ject during the Program's first phase. The participating countries will be responsible for implementa-
tion of existing laws and regulations related to the use of MBRS resources, including frameworks for
their conservation, (e.g., Marine Protected Areas, bans on harvesting of threatened and endangered
species, zoning of coastal landscapes, and creation of fishery reserves, closed seasons and permitting
systems). The PCU will be supported by the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), a roster of inter-
nationally recognized experts in the technical areas of project assistance, who have agreed to serve as
advisors to the PCU and may be called on, as needed.
Given the perspective of the Action Plan's 15-year implementation period, the ultimate objective is to
transform the PCU into a technical center of excellence for coastal and marine resources management
in the region, under the mantle of CCAD. Institutional strengthening will be achieved over time,
through the hiring of skilled technical specialists to coordinate the program in its various phases, and
through networking with research institutions and other organizations working with state of the art
methods for coral reef ecosystem management. During the project's first phase, technical support will
be provided to the PCU by the Regional TWGs, complemented by regional/international consultants
on an "as-needed" basis.2 The TWGs will be supported by the Policy Working Group (see below un-
der Project Rationale). Program activities under each of the four proposed components: Marine Pro-
tected Areas; Regional Environmental Information System (EIS); Promoting Sustainable Use of the
MBRS; and Public Awareness and Environmental Education, will be executed by a mix of local and
regional entities. Administrative support to the PCU will be provided by UNDP in the form of
international procurement and management and disbursement of project funds (see Annex 6).
2 Costs of consultants have been budgeted for under the respective components.
14

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D: Project Rationale
1. Justification for Project design and alternatives considered and reasons for rejection:
The MBRS Program objectives are ambitious and institutionally complex. In light of this and the
longer-term time frames required to achieve goals related to environmental quality and policy reform,
a gradualist approach was incorporated into Project design. The time frame was shifted from an initial
5 year Project to a proposed 15 year Program. The current Project represents the first phase of a 3-
phase Program whose design will be ongoing and will depend in part on the results of the initial 5 year
effort. Phase 1 will focus on institutional coordination and strategic interventions in capacity building,
public awareness and policy reform to lay the groundwork for future interventions. Rather than seek
to achieve lasting impact on the ground in Phase 1, this incremental approach provides the basis for a
sustained effort with the opportunity to build and expand on successful activities initiated in the first
phase, leading to a scaling up of Project scope and impact over the life of the Program.
Achieving institutional change is a long-term proposition, particularly when it entails strengthening
and harmonizing national policies, regulations, and institutional arrangements over four countries.
During the Program's initial phase, institutional and policy objectives will be identified by TWGs in
each thematic area with the help of a Policy Working Group composed of experts in environmental
law and natural resources management policy from the region. The role of the Policy Working Group
will be to assist the TWGs in the identification of priority "soft" policy objectives, achievable in the
short term, which would be required to harmonize national regulatory frameworks with agreed re-
gional frameworks governing the use of the MBRS. These might include standards for coastal water
quality, application of EIA and zoning requirements for coastal tourism development, waste manage-
ment in tourist facilities, construction and setbacks along the coast, permitting for recreational use of
MBRS resources, and regulations governing the seasonality, minimum size, gender and maximum
harvest of commercial fish stocks, and the establishment of port state control in major ports of the
MBRS. In addition, support for the introduction and adoption of best practices among small hotel and
dive tour operators, cruise ship and live-aboards in the region will be promoted. The Project would
support compliance with these standards through facilitating transparency in their application
and monitoring, and the use of economic instruments as incentives for their adoption. The
Policy Working Group will liaise closely with CCAD and its legal office to ensure that policy objec-
tives under this phase of the Project are raised to the highest levels for consideration within the System
for Central American Integration (SICA). Performance benchmarks to indicate progress toward policy
harmonization will be agreed during PY1. A performance indicator of overall progress in policy har-
monization has been included in Annex.
To help guide the direction of the overall Program in the medium to long term, an analysis of various
development scenarios for the MBRS region, based on national economic development plans and data
from the Sistema de Integracion Centroamericana (SICA) will be undertaken at the beginning of PY2.
The study will look at likely sectors of economic growth, such as tourism, fisheries and agriculture,
demographic trends, and their impacts on the coastal zone. These growth scenarios will be examined
in light of current national policies and legislation governing use of shared resources of the MBRS,
and the environmental policy agenda of CCAD. Areas of convergence between high impact scenarios
and CCAD's environmental agenda will identify synergies which the Project can help promote over
the medium to longer term Where unsustainable growth scenarios signal the need for major policy
shifts or closure of gaps in existing legislation, the MBRS Project can focus attention on those with
direct impact on the health of the MBRS during subsequent phases and work with CCAD to put these
issues on the Agenda of SICA to bring regional development agendas in line with environmental poli-
cies objectives. Investments and technical assistance required to support shifts in policy to offset un-
sustainable development trends, will be identified and designed into subsequent phases of the Program
15

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to ensure that follow on phases are consistent with projected development outcomes in the region.
External funding will be sought for this study.
A second consideration in Project design was geographic focus. An early proposal by other coral reef
countries in the region to be included in the Project was rejected because of the difficulty in coordinat-
ing activities over such a wide area. The decision to include only Mexico, Belize, Honduras and Gua-
temala in this initial phase was a result of the high level of political commitment manifested in the Tu-
lum Declaration and subsequent agreements among the four countries, and their common stake in a
shared resource. Furthermore, because it was not deemed possible to implement activities equally
across an area as large as the MBRS, a phasing of Project focal areas was also adopted:
In the first phase, many of the field-based interventions are concentrated in the MBRS's two trans-
boundary areas: Chetumal Bay to the north (involving Mexico and Belize) and Gulf of Honduras
to the South (where the frontier areas between Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras overlap). This is
also consistent with the regional orientation of Phase 1, in which the incremental (or supra-
national) aspects of marine ecosystem conservation and management are being supported.
The geographic scope of the Program may be expanded in subsequent phases to include source
reefs for recruiting larvae outside the MBRS--as far as Brazil, in the case of lobster and other
highly dispersing species. Parallel initiatives recently underway or planned, e.g., in San Andres,
Colombia under Coralina, and in Nicaragua and other parts of Central America, may be linked to
achieve critical mass and economies of scale in, for instance, MPA training and environmental
education.
Conservation of terrestrial and aquatic systems upstream in watersheds emptying into the MBRS are
likely to be the focus of subsequent phases of the Program, in light of the clear linkages between these
systems and the coastal zone. The impact of sedimentation and nutrient runoff from poor land use and
agricultural practices on coral reefs is well decumented. In light of anticipated increases in demo-
graphic pressure in the watersheds and coastal plains of the MBRS over the next 10-15 years, a strate-
gic shift in focus landward will be required in subsequent phases of the project to offset major land-
based threats to the sustainability of the MBRS. Riverbasin modeling of the impacts of climate
change and land use in Caribbean watershed on habitats and processes downstream, along with eco-
nomic models of the value and use of MBRS resources over the next decade, referred to earlier, are
among the analytical tools that will be applied in the design of follow-on phases.
The environmental information system, sustainable use, and MPA components of the Project have
been designed incrementally, with the intent of expanding these in subsequent phases of the Program.
Support for pilot activities in MPA monitoring, tourism and alternative livelihoods has been designed
to test the feasibility of specific enterprises and policies. This can be scaled up during later years of the
Program to launch successful initiatives throughout the MBRS and other parts of the MBC.
Finally, although maritime pollution and habitat degradation related to shipping (including impacts
from cruise ships) and inadequate port reception facilities were identified as a significant transbound-
ary threats, the Project will not address these issues. These are currently being addressed by other do-
nors, such as WWF and USAID, and will form the basis for a complementary regional project, cur-
rently under preparation in the Gulf of Honduras, to be executed by the IDB with GEF support.
16

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2. Major related Projects financed by the Bank and/or other development agencies (completed, ongo-
ing and planned):
Sector issue
Project
Latest Supervision (Form 590)
Ratings
(Bank-financed Projects only)
Bank-
Implementation
Development
Financed
Progress (IP)
Objective
(DO)
Mexico Mesoamerican Biological Corridor Project
(World Bank/United Mexican States)
Conservation of Sarstoon-Temash Protected Area
(World Bank/GEF MSP and Government of Belize)
Honduras Sustainable Coastal Tourism Project (World
Bank/IDA; Honduras Institute of Tourism)
Biodiversity in Priority Areas Project (World
U
S (GO)
Bank/UNDP/GEF/Gov. of Honduras)
Social Investment Fund (Gov. of Honduras/World Bank)
Honduras Natural Disaster Mitigation
CCAD MBC Imp. Communications Strategy (IDF re-
gional)
Costa Rica Biodiversity
HS
HS
Costa Rica Ecomarkets
National Environmental Management Project
Nicaragua Atlantic Biodiversity Corridor
S
HS (GO)
Panama Mesoamerican Biological Corridor
S
S (GO)
Other
Regional Project for the Conservation of the Meso-
development
american Biological Cooridor (UNDP/GEF; CCAD))
agencies
Conservation of the Mesoamerican Caribbean Reef Eco-
region (WWF)
PROARCA COSTAS (Co-financed between USAID and
the Nature Conservancy (TNC), WWF, University of
Rhode Island/Coastal Resources Center (URI/CRC)
Caribbean Coastal Marine Productivity Program
(CARICOMP)
Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) (In-
tergovernmental Oceanographic Commis-
sion/Subcommission for the Caribbean)
Quintana Roo Integrated Coastal Zone Management Pro-
ject (Amigos de Sian Ka'an, University of Quintana Roo;
USAID)
Conservation of the Barrier Reef Complex of Belize
(Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute,
UNDP/GEF)
Trinational Alliance for Conservation of the Gulf of
Honduras (PROARCA/COSTAS)
Bay Islands Natural Resources Management Project
(Honduran Institute of Tourism, IDB)
Secondary Cities Project (Gov. of Honduras/IADB)
Laughing Bird Caye National Park (GEF)
Slackchwe Habitat Enhancement Project (GEF)
Land Administration Project # 1 and #2 in Belize (IDB)
Sustainable Tourism Strategy for Belize (IDB)
IP/DO Ratings: HS (Highly Satisfactory), S (Satisfactory), U (Unsatisfactory), HU (Highly Unsatisfactory)
17

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Of direct importance to the current MBRS Program are several regional and national initiatives deal-
ing with the MBRS and with natural resources management in the western Caribbean (a comprehen-
sive list of regional projects is listed in Annex 13, Matrix 3). Activities totaling US$40 million related
to coastal and marine resources management are currently ongoing in the region, and others are in
preparation. Still others, such as the regional UNDP/GEF project for consolidation of the MBC being
implemented by CCAD, and the complementary suite of national MBC projects (including corridor
projects in Mexico, Honduras and Belize) under implementation with GEF, Bank, UNDP and UNEP
support, focus on terrestrial biodiversity conservation, but with potential downstream linkages to
coastal and offshore processes. CCAD's role as implementing agency for both the terrestrial and ma-
rine regional programs to consolidate the MBC will ensure in-house coordination between the two,
realize efficiencies in project implementation and reporting/outreach, and maximize policy objectives
under the two programs where they are mutually reinforcing.
At the regional level, the coastal resources management component of the regional environmental pro-
ject for Central America, PROARCA-COSTAS, is co-financed by USAID with matching funds pro-
vided by international NGOs: The Nature Conservancy (TNC), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
and the University of Rhode Island/Coastal Resources Center (URI/CRC). The Project supports capac-
ity building and empowerment of local communities in the development of strategies for the sustain-
able use of coastal resources focusing on pilot areas in Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. WWF's re-
gional initiative, Conservation of the Mesoamerican Caribbean Reef Ecoregion, is being designed in
coordination with the GEF MBRS Project, and is intimately linked to the Phase 1 Project. It focuses
on biological assessment of the MBRS region, mapping and determining priority interventions to ad-
dress root causes of resource degradation from a biodiversity conservation perspective.
There are numerous ongoing international and regional programs providing technical assistance in
coastal resources assessment, monitoring and capacity building. These include the Caribbean Coastal
Marine Productivity Program (CARICOMP) and the UNEP-coordinated Caribbean Environment Pro-
gram (CEP). Also, the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN), operating through its Car-
ibbean sub-node, is supported by various international and regional organizations with local coral reef
monitoring carried out with government and NGO staffs in all four MBRS countries. The Intergov-
ernmental Oceanographic Commission/Subcommission for the Caribbean is coordinating support to
countries in the wider Caribbean region to ratify and adopt actions under the protocols of the Cart-
agena Convention; it supports scientific research, training and monitoring of oceanographic, fisheries
and biological diversity parameters. There are also various projects under preparation with financing
from, inter alia, the GEF, IDB, UNDP, GTZ, USAID, DANIDA, and other bi- and multilaterals in
support of conservation of coastal and marine resources. There is currently a GEF Block B proposal
being prepared by the IDB, with the Bank as implementing agency, to address maritime pollution and
other port related environmental issues in the Gulf of Honduras. Port and ship based pollution were
identified as major threats to the MBRS in the Threat and Root Cause Analysis.
At the national level, several projects stand out due to their direct relevance to the MBRS. Among
these, the Conservation of the Barrier Reef Complex of Belize (Coastal Zone Management Authority
and Institute, UNDP/GEF) has provided a strong foundation for Integrated Coastal Zone Management
in Belize, an essential component of any long-term strategy to conserve the Belize Barrier Reef, a ma-
jor constituent of the MBRS. The WB/GEF Regional Project builds on the national project as a critical
baseline for addressing transboundary issues related to the sustainability of the MBRS on Belize's
northern and southern frontiers. These include the identification and monitoring of non-point source
pollution from the Rio Hondo into the Bay of Chetumal and similar run-off and water quality issues in
the Gulf of Honduras in the tri-national border between Belize, Guatemala and Honduras--issues that
the national project cannot address in isolation.
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The regional project also provides support for the establishment of bi- and tri-national protected areas
in these transboundary areas, building on the existing national MPAs in Belize, to increase capacity
for management of upstream/downstream impacts and ecological connectivity between adjacent ele-
ments of the same larger ecosystems. Bi- and tri-national MPA working groups will be established in
these areas to ensure coordination in the development and implementation of strategic management
plans that are consistent with principles of transboundary management and are harmonized in terms of
regulations and enforcement. Strategic support for protected area management planning of MPAs lo-
cated outside the transboundary areas in Belize will target those MPAs that do not have long-term stra-
tegic management plans or operational plans. MPA management training and TA in coral reef moni-
toring will be provided on a regional basis to countries in the MBRS according to assessed needs.
Similarly, the regional Coral Reef Monitoring and EIS to be established under the MBRS Project will
build on existing data bases, mapping and GIS capacity that currently exist within Belize, as deter-
mined through extensive analysis carried out during Project preparation.
Coordination with UNDP and synergies between the national and regional initiatives will be ensured
by close technical cooperation between the implementing agencies and joint representation on Project
Advisory Committees. This is further reinforced by virtue of the Director of the Executing Agency
(the ICZM Authority) for the UNDP/GEF Project also serving as Belize's National Coordinator of the
MBRS GEF Regional Project. The PCU for the WB/GEF MBRS project and PIU for the UNDP/GEF
Project will be housed in the same building that will house the Coastal Zone Management Authority
and Institute and Caribbean Fisheries Resource Assessment and Management Project (CFRAMP) on
the grounds of the Department of Fisheries in Belize City.
Another important national initiative in Mexico involves the southern Quintana Roo Integrated Coastal
Zone Management Project (Amigos de Sian Ka'an, University of Quintana Roo, USAID). This Project
has resulted recently in the successful designation of Xcalak Marine Park in the northern transbound-
ary area between the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico and northern Belize. This is one of the fifteen
MPAs that will be strengthened under the GEF MBRS Project through design of protected area man-
agement plans and training.
Other initiatives contributing to implementation of the MBRS Action Plan include the Trinational Al-
liance for Conservation of the Gulf of Honduras (currently developing new project initiatives) sup-
ported by PROARCA/COSTAS, and several small projects related to protected area management of
both coastal and near-coastal protected areas, supported by local and international NGOs, private enti-
ties, national and state governments, bilaterals and IFIs. Two projects in Honduras, the Bay Islands
Natural Resources Management Project, a US$24 million project to protect the terrestrial and marine
environment of the Bays Islands, being implemented by the Honduran Institute of Tourism (IHT) with
financing from IDB, and the Honduras Sustainable Coastal Tourism Project (a World Bank/IDA fi-
nanced LIL being prepared in parallel with the MBRS GEF project), are baseline and related co-
financing activities designed to support marine protected area management and sustainable tourism in
this portion of the MBRS. Opportunities exist to link another Bank financed project in Honduras, Dis-
aster Mitigation, and its early warning system, with the environmental monitoring and regional EIS
being established for the MBRS under component 2.
A major challenge for countries and partners in the region will be to organize these and future efforts
into a comprehensive framework that supports implementation of the Action Plan for Conservation
and Sustainable Use of the MBRS. The Threat and Root Cause Analysis prepared under this Project
provides a useful reference point and tool for such an approach. Members from the international and
NGO communities, and possibly the private sector will form a Consultative Group to liaise with other
donors and to secure and consolidate investments in the MBRS that address priority needs and re-
source gaps over the course of the 15 year Program.
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3. Lessons learned and reflected in proposed Project design:
Experience with regional seas programs elsewhere has taught that creating a common stake in the fu-
ture of a shared resource and a sense of ownership in the management process is essential to the sus-
tainability of any collaborative effort. Gaining the commitment of stakeholders to regional cooperation
to solve system-wide, transboundary issues requires consultation and consensus and a reaffirmation of
the benefits of regionalism vs. a more fragmented, nationalist approach. This in turn requires public
awareness and dialogue to create a strong constituency for the harmonization of policies and enforce-
ment of legislation that will sustain such a regional approach. Aligned with this must be adequate re-
sources to absorb the incremental costs of conservation and economic tradeoffs in the interests of the
regional, public good. The current Project has been designed with significant consultation at the policy
and technical levels. An ongoing social assessment will help ensure ownership at the local level for
actions that will generate conservation and socio-economic benefits to local communities. Continuous
policy dialogue will be an important element of the regional Project and program. Implementation of
Phase 1 by CCAD will promote cross-country dialogue on MBRS issues of regional importance, and
help elevate policy concerns to the highest political levels. CCAD's implementation of the comple-
mentary regional MBC project with assistance from the GEF and UNDP will promote integration be-
tween terrestrial and coastal/marine objectives to safeguard the MBC, and harmonization of sectoral
policies (e.g., in agriculture, water, tourism and infrastructure) among the countries concerned to sup-
port these objectives.
Another important lesson learned from natural resource and environmental projects around the world
is that these are necessarily long-term efforts, requiring sustained commitments of political will and
resources. This is even truer of regional initiatives, whose scope and implementation are more com-
plex and thus require more time to achieve stated goals. Bearing this in mind, the current Project has
been designed as part of a 15 year Program. A phased approach will allow for steady progress toward
realistic objectives in the near to medium term, building toward achievement of program goals in the
longer term. A commitment in principle to the longer-term goals and the resources required to achieve
them, based on interim performance and outcomes, should create the incentives for success at each
stage. This in turn should attract more resources from partners and other potential donors, and a better
integration of investments in the region, reinforcing the success of the long-term effort.
4. Indications of recipient commitment and ownership:
The program aims to build on the foundation established in June 1997, through the Tulum Declaration,
in which the Presidents of Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras and the Prime Minister of Belize
publicly affirmed the global biological, economic and cultural importance of this shared resource to
their nations' future. At the same time, they acknowledged serious threats to the sustainability of this
unique system, and the urgent need to initiate actions to counteract them. The four leaders committed
themselves to initiate a process of active collaboration in the preparation and implementation of an
Action Plan for Conservation of the MBRS.
The Plan was endorsed by the four countries in June 1999, and GEF PDF support for the preparation
of a program to implement regional elements of the Action Plan was successfully leveraged at a ratio
of nearly 3:1. Reaffirmation of the Action Plan and commitment to the Tulum Declaration was
witnessed at two recent ministerial level events that took place in March and April 2000. Both were
held in Tulum, to commemorate the initial event: the Gift to the Earth ceremony sponsored by WWF,
in which the four countries pledged their support to protect the MBRS, and the third MBRS regional
consultation to review Project preparation under the current Bank/GEF initiative. Both resulted in the
necessary political commitment and counterpart financing to undertake a regional Project of this
complexity.
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The four countries are also signatories to a number of key conventions at the regional and global level.
These legal agreements will be used as the basis for harmonization of policies and legislation required
to implement a region-wide plan for the conservation of a unique transboundary ecosystem, and for
the equitable and sustainable use of its resources. Support for these legal agreements includes the fol-
lowing: Belize ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on December 30, 1993, and is a
signatory to CITES, the Convention on the Law of the Sea, Convention on the Prevention of Marine
Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter (London Convention 1972) and the International
Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78). Guatemala ratified the
Convention on Biological Diversity on July 10, 1995, and is a signatory to the Ramsar Convention,
CITES, Law of the Sea, and London Convention 1972. Honduras ratified the Convention on Biologi-
cal Diversity on July 31, 1995, and is a signatory to Ramsar, CITES, Law of the Sea, and London
1972. Mexico ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity on March 11, 1993. In May 1996, the
Government of Mexico published its program on Natural Protected Areas 1995-2000, outlining a
strategy and action plan for effective protected area management.
5. Value added of Bank and global support in this Project:
The GEF's role in this Project is essential. The majority of issues being addressed under this Project
are transboundary in character, thus the incremental cost aspects can only be adequately addressed
through grant support.
The World Bank brings to this Project its considerable capacity to address marine-related environ-
mental issues and its ability to convene governments around issues of common concern. The Bank has
extensive experience in the design and implementation of regional seas programs around the world,
and has been a long-standing member and active supporter of the International Coral Reef Initiative,
with a growing portfolio of coral reef related operations currently valued at nearly US$100 million.
More specifically, the Bank, through an IDA credit to the Government of Honduras, is considering
investing in baseline costs related to the establishment of a framework for sustainable tourism along
Honduras's northern Caribbean coast. This area includes the mainland coast from Puerto Cortez to
Trujillo and the offshore Bay Islands--the southeastern-most extension of the MBRS. The US$5.0
million credit is being designed as a Learning and Innovation Loan (LIL), in parallel with the GEF
regional MBRS Project. The objectives of the LIL are to create an enabling environment--through
policy dialogue, capacity building at the municipal and local community level, and support for innova-
tive public-private partnerships--for the sustainable development of tourism within the coastal zone of
the MBRS. The Project would pilot the establishment of environment and tourism technical units
within each participating municipality to oversee environmental assessment requirements in relation to
tourism development proposals; specialized training in tourism related services to local stakeholder
groups; dissemination of best practice in the coastal tourism industry and a regional environmental
certification program to encourage its adoption; and an innovation marketplace to promote new ideas
and opportunities for small-to-medium enterprise development in the coastal tourism sector. These
activities are being designed to serve as demonstrations for sustainable tourism development in other
parts of the MBRS. Through its work with indigenous groups in the coastal zone, the LIL would also
inform the community based management activities under the MPA and sustainable use components
of the MBRS regional Project.
In addition to the IDA credit, the Bank has partnered extensively with the GEF in investments to con-
solidate and conserve the terrestrial portion of the MBC. The Bank has been successful in leveraging
additional financing for these investments from bilaterals, such as the Netherlands and the United
States, the EU, the IDB and from the countries involved. Together these investments form a critical
mass of support for regional cooperation in the conservation of globally important transboundary eco-
systems, and in building the capacity--institutional, financial and human--to achieve these objectives.
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E: Summary Project Analyses
1. Economic (supported by Annex 4Incremental Cost):
[ ] Cost-Benefit Analysis: NPV=US$ million; ERR= % [ ] Cost Effectiveness Analysis:
[X] Incremental Cost
[ ] Other
The IC Annex compares the baseline scenario with the GEF Alternative, identifying an incremental
cost of US$11.0 million to achieve global benefits.
2. Financial: NPV=US$ million; FRR= %
Fiscal impact:
The anticipated fiscal impact of the Project on the participating countries is expected to be modest.
Counterpart contributions are largely in kind, in terms of staff, or one-time investments (in terms of
construction of office space). The recurrent costs for fuel, equipment maintenance and some consum-
ables are already absorbed into the existing budgets of the implementing agencies, and should there-
fore prove manageable in the future.
In the case of MPAs, cost recovery schemes for management and monitoring activities will be inte-
grated into the management and operational plans that are to be developed under Component 1 of the
Project (e.g., via user fees, permits, fines, trust funds). The allocation of staff for the four new MPA
sites to be supported under the Project will be absorbed under annual operating budgets of the agencies
involved and not pose a significant burden on central treasuries now or in the future.
3. Technical:
These include country level differences in capacity to manage resources and to assess the state of these
resources; differences in data collection methodologies which make comparisons across countries dif-
ficult; and communication difficulties in sharing information, compounded by language differences.
The Project would address data issues by developing and implementing agreed protocols for collec-
tion, processing and dissemination information.
To minimize language barriers, the regional Project coordinator would be completely bilingual in
Spanish and English, and all Project documents would be prepared in both languages.
4. Institutional: (see Annex 2)
To enhance coordination between countries at the regional level and to promote multi-sectoral partici-
pation at the national level, each country has established a National Barrier Reef Committee. These
committees are comprised of representatives of the concerned ministries, the NGO community, re-
search institutions and the private sector. They serve as a clearinghouse for information on programs
and policies affecting the MBRS in each country. A National Coordinator has been selected from each
of the country committees to serve as the principal liaison with the Project preparation team in the de-
sign and implementation of Phase 1 of the GEF regional program. Regional Technical Working
Groups will be established under each Project component, drawn from the ranks of the National Bar-
rier Reef Committees in each country.
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4.1. Executing agencies:
CCAD, which is comprised of the Council of Ministers of the Environment in Central America, with
Mexico as an observer, will serve as implementing agency, operating through its secretariat, the Direc-
torate General for Environment (DIGEMA) of the System for Central American Integration (SICA),
based in San Salvador.
4.2. Project management: (see Figure 1 below)
The main institutional issues to be addressed are: (i) no established precedent for regional collabora-
tion in addressing environmental issues, apart from the efforts of CCAD; and (ii) inconsistencies and
gaps in national legislation related to coastal and marine resource use among the four countries, which
are obstacles to implementation of regional management regimes to safeguard the health of the
MBRS. The Project would support measures to harmonize policies and regulations in line with best
practice and agreed principles for conservation and sustainable use of the MBRS. Initially, harmoniza-
tion would focus on normalizing regulations related to establishment and enforcement of MPAs, and
on the fisheries and tourism sectors, setting and enforcing standards for coastal water quality, tourism
zoning and environmental impact assessment.
Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System Project
Organizational Structure of the Project
C.C.A.D. Ministers &
Mexico
Regional Steering
D.G.M.A.
Committee
Project Coordination Unit
Technical Advisory
Committee
Consultative Group
National Barrier Reef Committees
Technical Working Groups
Governments
Non-Governmental
Consultants
Universities
Organizations
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4.3 Procurement issues
A CPAR for Belize, the country where procurement actions will take place, is not available.
The PCU, which will be based in Belize City, is in the process of being established, and a director,
accountant and procurement officer have been hired. Additional staff, including an administrative as-
sitant to help with document filing and monitoring of procurement actions, will also be hired. A third
party, UNDP, will be contracted to assist the PCU with international procurement, local procurement
and oversight of minor civil works in Mexico, Honduras, and Guatemala, and with the management
and disbursement of Project funds (see Annex 6). UNDP/Belize will be equipped with the requisite
procurement staff to carry out these functions. Technical assistance and training of procurement staff
in both UNDP/Belize and in the MBRS PCU will be undertaken by UNDP/El Salvador to ensure that
capacity in international procurement is built within the Project Coordination Unit.. PCU staff will
also be trained in Bank procurement and reporting procedures to ensure that project demands are met.
A Procurement and Contract Management System will be set up for PMR reporting.
A Procurement Plan for goods, works and consultant services for the life of the Project has been pre-
pared. (see Annex 6).
4.4 Financial management issues:
Financial Management System: The PCU will maintain an adequate financial management system,
compatible with Project Management Reporting (PMR) as required by the Bank under the Loan Ad-
ministration Change Initiative (LACI). The financial management system will include internal control
systems, reliable records and report of Project assets, accounting, financial reporting, reconciliation of
the PCU's Project records with the GEF statements on disbursements of Project funds, monitoring of
physical progress of agreed Project indicators, procurement management, and auditing systems--to
ensure the provision of accurate and timely information to the World Bank regarding Project resources
and expenditures, in accordance with: (i) the Financial Accounting, Reporting, and Auditing Hand-
book (World Bank, 1995); (ii) the Bank's Operational Policy (OP) and Bank Procedure (BP) 10.02
dated July 1996; and (iii) the revised Bank financial management standards to comply with OP and BP
10.02, dated August 1997. Project assistance for the establishment of the PCU will be provided. The
Government of Belize will provide in-kind office support.
A World Bank accredited financial management consultant performed a financial management as-
sessment of the Project Preparation Unit in July 2000. At the time of the assessment, a financial man-
agement system had not been implemented. Guidelines and technical assistance were provided to the
PPU to ensure that an adequate financial management system, internal controls, monitoring systems,
and staffing of the Project Coordination Unit for the implementation phase will be in place to achieve
the certification of the project's financial management system PMR compliant, under the Bank's Loan
Administration Change Initiative (LAC). The action plan agreed upon includes key actions to: (a) de-
sign and implement a financial management system that meets PMR requirements; (b) hire the staff
for procurement and financial management; (c) develop administrative procedures; and (d) hiring of
external auditors. It was agreed that a PRM compatible, Financial Management System (FMS) ac-
ceptable to the Bank would be operational prior to project effectiveness.
Reporting and Audits: The PCU will produce PMRs on a quarterly basis. These reports will be pre-
pared 45 days after the end of each quarter. In addition, annual financial statements (to be included in
the audit report) will be required. The fiscal year of the Project will match PCU's fiscal year. In addi-
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tion to submission of quarterly PMRs, the PCU will contract an independent public accounting firm,
prior to the beginning of the fiscal year to be audited.
Flow of Funds/Disbursement: CCAD has decided to contract the services of UNDP as the disburse-
ment agent, who will be in charge of channeling the GEF grant funds and making the payments for
Project disbursements, with the requests and approvals from the PCU in Belize. The PCU will be re-
sponsible for preparing withdrawal applications and the related SOEs, or PMRs, as applicable, with
funds being channeled through a third party agent (see Annex 6).
Project Monitoring and Evaluation: The Project will be guided by bi-annual reviews of results, on
which basis CCAD and the World Bank supervision mission will identify specific measures to: (i) ad-
dress any areas of implementation weaknesses; and (ii) accommodate changes in priorities. These
measures for improvement will be reflected in the PCU proposal for the forthcoming year's Project
budget.
5. Environmental:
Environmental Category: B
5.1 Summarize the steps undertaken for environmental assessment and environmental management
plan (EMP) preparation (including consultation and disclosure) and the significant issues and their
treatment emerging from this analysis.
The Environmental Assessment (EA) was based in large part on the Threat and Root Cause Analysis
and Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis (TBDA) prepared in the early stages of Project design. Be-
cause the Project is designed to address many of the fundamental threats to the ecological health of the
MBRS, as identified in the TRCA and TBDA, negative environmental impacts are expected to be few
and minor. In light of the Project's objectives to conserve the integrity and continued productivity of
the MBRS, and to promote opportunities for its sustainable use, stakeholders consulted in the prepara-
tion of the EA were of the opinion that the MBRS Project would have important overall positive envi-
ronmental and social impacts for the MBRS region. The Project will make important contributions to
the body of knowledge concerning the status of the MBRS and its resources, and the real and potential
negative impacts of anthropogenic activities as these are manifested on its habitats and resources. The
Project seeks synergistic linkages with ongoing and future local, national and, regional initiatives deal-
ing with conservation and sustainable use of the MBRS. It would achieve this by promoting a regional
view of ecosystem boundaries and issues, a long-term program of investment and monitoring, and
mechanisms for regional coordination in program design and implementation.
The Category B rating reflects the potential for some negative environmental impacts associated with
minor civil works in the construction of MPA infrastructure. To mitigate these risks, environmental
management guidelines for construction of minor civil works associated with MPA infrastructure will
be prepared by the Natural Resources Management Specialist within the Regional PCU, and applied
prior to the contracting of civil works .. These guidelines will be incorporated into the design specifi-
cations for the civil works. Their execution will be supervised by MPA management staff and com-
pliance monitored by the PCU.
5.2 What are the main features of the EMP and are they adequate?
The main features of the EMP are implementation of a simple environmental impact assessment pro-
cedure to mitigate the impacts of minor civil works associated with construction of MPA infrastruc-
ture. General guidelines and an annotated checklist (Ficha Ambiental) will be prepared by the PCU
Natural Resources Management Specialist, for the siting and design of each structure. This checklist
should be applied in the field by personnel of each respective MPA, or the organization charged with
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management of the MPA. MPA personnel will be trained in the use of the checklist in a two-day
workshop to be organized by the Specialist, who will then also monitor compliance with the proce-
dure. The procedure should be compliant with any and all applicable regulations and norms in each of
the respective countries as may be stipulated in local or national laws and codes. As appropriate, the
procedure and checklist should be adapted to local environmental and socioeconomic conditions.
5.3 For Category A and B projects
Timeline and status of EA:
Completed March 16, 2000
Date of receipt of final draft:
March 16, 2000
Translation of Document into Spanish:
July 2000
5.4 How have stakeholders been consulted at the stage of (a) environmental screening and (b) draft
EA report on the environmental impacts and proposed environment management plan? Describe
mechanisms of consultation that were used and which groups were consulted?
Regional workshops involving a broad range of stakeholders and representatives from all four coun-
tries served as discussion fora for the EA and overall Project design throughout Project preparation.
National and local level workshops carried out during preparation of the TRCA and TBDA also in-
formed the EA process. Once completed, the EA was circulated in Spanish and in English to National
Coordinators of the Project in the four participating countries. These were then distributed to the Na-
tional Barrier Reef Committees in each country for dissemination to other stakeholders and interest
groups.
5.5 What mechanisms have been established to monitor and evaluate the impact of the project on the
environment? Do the indicators reflect the objectives and results of the EMP?
The PCU Natural Resources Management Specialist will be responsible for monitoring compliance
with the EMP. Project audits will also serve to evaluate compliance with the mitigation guidelines and
environmental impact assessment checklist.
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6. Social:
6.1 Summarize key social issues relevant to the project objectives, and specify the project's social de-
velopment outcomes.
The key social issues identified in the Social Assessment:
Decline in traditional economic activities, e.g., fisheries and agriculture, due to inappropriate land
use, increasing urbanization and tourism development
Environmental degradation due to inadequate environmental management (affecting water qual-
ity/fisheries productivity and land productivity) associated with uncontrolled human settlements,
urbanization and tourism development along the coast
Lack of education and information about environmental issues, cultural values and history of the
region's ethnic (leads to low awareness about the importance of the environment and limits the
possibilities for alternative employment)
Concern over the brand of tourism developing along major sections of the MBRS coast (mass
tourism, culturally and economically inequitable, and environmentally unsustainable)
Along with insecure land tenure this creates uncertainty about benefits of tourism development
that would accrue to local and economically disadvantage populations
Strong desire for alternative income generating opportunities, especially in ecotourism and fisher-
ies value-added industries
Discrimination against women in nearly all aspects of economic activity, and to a large degree
social activity.
6.2 Participatory Approach: How are key stakeholders participating in the project?
The main Project stakeholders and beneficiaries are: (a) the governments of Mexico, Belize, Guate-
mala and Honduras, including national, departmental and municipal authorities; (b) local communities,
including indigenous and ethnic groups inhabiting the coastal fringe, their organizations and tradi-
tional leaders; (c) non-governmental environmental organizations; (d) international and regional or-
ganizations; (e) the scientific community; and (f) private entrepreneurs, (g) the donor community (bi-
laterals and multi-laterals, IFIs).
Consultations with stakeholders representing all these groups were carried out through a series of re-
gional and national workshops and via local level meetings throughout Project preparation. Work-
shops permitted interchange of ideas and interests concerning the values placed on MBRS resources
and current economic and cultural uses. Wide participation of stakeholders in work groups and plenary
sessions enriched the design process and helped focus regional priorities. Extensive consultations with
local communities were carried out during the Social Assessment. These included field visits, surveys
and open-ended interviews with representatives from all key ethnic and indigenous groups in the four
participating countries, and focus groups and discussions with local experts (see Methodology in the
Social Assessment, Annex 12). A matrix of activities designed to address issues specific to these
groups and to be supported by the Project is presented in the Indigenous People's Participation and
Development Plan of the Social Assessment (see Executive Summary of the Social Assessment, An-
nex 12).
Participation by all key stakeholders in project implementation and monitoring will be assured by the
following institutional arrangements:
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(i) National Barrier Reef Committees: These committees are comprised of representatives of the con-
cerned ministries, the NGO community, research institutions and the private sector. The Project will
promote representation by ethnic groups and women on these committees to ensure the broadest inclu-
sion of stakeholders at the national and local levels;
(ii) Technical Working Groups: Technical working groups allied with particular themes to be ad-
dressed under the Project will be set up during Project implementation. These working groups will be
structured to ensure participation of specialized sectors and affected groups in the design of annual
work programs incorporating activities under these project components and transparency in the proc-
ess of implementation;
(iii) Regional Steering Committee: This will be comprised of the Executive Secretary of CCAD3 or his
delegate, and the National Coordinators of each of the four National Barrier Reef Committees. The
committee will also include a panel of ex-officio members representing donor organizations and part-
ner institutions working in the region on issues related to MBRS Program objectives (see Section 4
above on Institutional Issues and Annex 2 on Project Management Arrangements).
6.3 How does the project involve consultations or collaboration with NGOs or other civil society or-
ganizations?
The Project includes consultative bodies in its management structure and implementation arrange-
ments. NGOs and other civil society organizations are not only involved through these administrative
committees and technical working groups, but may also participate as executing agents during Project
implementation.
6.4 What institutional arrangements have been provided to ensure the project achieves its social de-
velopment outcomes?
The results of the Social Assessment are being disseminated in consultations with the National Barrier
Reef Committees in each country and through local channels to promote broad ownership of the re-
sults. An adequate budget has been allocated to finance implementation of the Indigenous Peoples'
Participation and Development Plan (US$2.8 million). A Social Scientist will be hired as a member of
the Project Coordination Unit, responsible for day-to-day implementation of the Project. One of the
roles of the Social Scientist will be to liaise with representatives of local communities and stakeholder
interest groups, particularly indigenous groups, to ensure that their voices are heard in the course of
Project implementation and that benefits and information are being channeled to target groups
Through the Regional Steering Committee and the National Barrier Reef Committees, the PCU can
bring issues and concerns to the attention of decision-makers at the country level if they cannot be
adequately addressed locally.
6.5 How will the project monitor performance in terms of social development outcomes?
Participation in Project decision-making and implementation by key stakeholders will be achieved
through the institutional arrangements described above in 6.2. Regular monitoring of Project Perform-
ance Indicators by PCU staff, supervision missions and annual evaluations during meetings of the
RSC and the Regional TWGs will provide ongoing assessment of Project progress in achieving spe-
cific development outcomes.
3 The Executive Director of the CCAD also acts as the Director General of the General Environmental Directorate (Dirección
General de Medio Ambiente, DGMA) of the Secretariat of Central American Integration (Sistema de Integración Cen-
troamericana, SICA), headquartered in El Salvador.
28

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7. Safeguard Policies:
7.1 Do any of the following safeguard policies apply to the project?
Policy
Applicability (yes or
no)
Environmental Assessment (OP 4.01, BP 4.01, GP 4.01)
Y
Natural habitats (OP 4.04, BP 4.04, GP 4.04)
Y
Forestry (OP 4.36, GP 4.36)
N
Pest Management (OP 4.09)
N
Cultural Property (OPN 11.03)
N
Indigenous Peoples (OD 4.20)
Y
Involuntary Resettlement (OD. 4.3)
Possibly
Safety of Dams (OP 4.37, BP 4.37)
N
Projects in International Waters (OP 7.50, BP 7.50, GP 7.50)
N
Projects in Disputed Areas (OP 7.60, BP 7.60, GP 7.60)
N
7.2 Describe provisions made by the project to ensure compliance with applicable safeguard policies.
An EA was carried out during Project preparation. Recommendations as to how to mitigate any poten-
tial adverse impacts from the Project, related primarily to small-scale infrastructure for MPAs, are pre-
sented in the form of an Environmental Management Plan, including preparation of guidelines for sit-
ing of construction and operation of MPA infrastructure. These have been incorporated into the Pro-
ject design.
A Social Assessment, involving extensive consultations, was carried out during Project preparation.
The results and recommendations have been incorporated into an Indigenous People's Participation
and Development Plan, which will be implemented under the Project (see Section E 6 above.)
In the event that OD 4.3 on Involuntary Resettlement is invoked in the context of economic displace-
ment resulting from restricted access to fishing grounds incorporated into fishery reserves Marine Pro-
tected Areas, a process framework to mitigate the impacts of such displacement, has been developed
(Annex 16). The process framework is tied closely to the development of Management Plans for each
of the MPAs to be supported under the Project as the basis for community participation in the design
of the resource management regime, establishment of eligibility of affected parties for compensastion
under the safeguard policy, and options for such compensation. The latter could include access to al-
ternative fishing grounds, support for alternative livelihoods in aquaculture, fisheries processing or
other value added techniques, eco-tourism, marine protected area interpretation and enforcement, and
training under the sustainable use component of the project.
Protection of natural habitats and international waters are key objectives of this regional Project for
conservation and sustainable use of the MBRS. The Project is designed to enhance capacity for better
protection of ecologically sensitive and globally important marine ecosystems, through the establish-
ment of MPAs in priority sites set aside for conservation, and through the introduction of tools, includ-
ing technical (information systems, environmental education and monitoring) and policy and regula-
tory measures, to improve the management of these systems. With assistance from the Policy Working
Group and intervention by the Council of Environment Ministers who comprise the CCAD, legal and
policy reforms to ensure compliance with international Conventions to which all four countries are
party, and the harmonization of regulatory frameworks affecting transboundary resources , will be
promoted.
29

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F: Sustainability and Risks
1. Sustainability:
Sustainability in the context of this Project must be defined in terms of both (i) ecological sustainabil-
ity--that is maintaining the biological communities and ecological processes that comprise the MBRS
and are responsible for the goods and services it produces; and (ii) program sustainability--
establishing the institutional arrangements, financial commitments, and economic and social incen-
tives to maintain a strategic set of well coordinated activities that will create the conditions for the
first. The Project design recognizes the need to account for interconnectedness of ecological processes
and environmental impacts within the MBRS, many of which are transboundary in nature (i.e., cross
political frontiers) or are the result of development activities upstream (within national boundaries). To
do this requires comprehension of the system's true boundaries, the forces that drive the system (e.g.,
recruitment, predation, competition, nutrient cycling, and physical factors including climate, tempera-
ture and pH), and how they operate to keep the system intact. This is the role of science--of research
and monitoring, and of information dissemination.
Related to this is the interpretation of relevant information for the public and for decision-makers. Ex-
change of information and public debate is essential to creating a constituency for the political and
financial support, and the economic and social tradeoffs in some cases, that will be required to initiate
and sustain conservation efforts over time. This is a major focus of the current Project.
In the case of transboundary aquatic systems like the MBRS, sustaining measures to conserve its eco-
logical values and economic productivity will depend on regional cooperation in adopting an ecosys-
tem perspective that transcends both national interests and geographic frontiers. Traditionally, such
international cooperation is rare, despite a shared stake in the future of the resources among riparians,
and the economic and ecological implications of failure to do so in the long term. A similar pattern is
usually evident among the array of donors in a region, whose interventions are targeted but generally
fragmented in terms of coordination with one another and often not sustained over the long term.
The MBRS Program is designed to address the need for regionalism in the perspective of the countries
involved, and for coordination of activities within a long-term, strategic framework. The concept be-
hind the MBRS Program has been endorsed at the highest political levels, with the signing of the Tu-
lum Declaration be the presidents and prime minister of the four countries sharing the MBRS. Subse-
quent ministerial level endorsement by ministers of Finance and Environment during various stages of
Project preparation have reinforced these countries commitment to the objectives of the MBRS Action
Plan and the regional GEF Progra.
The first phase of the Program focuses on system-wide threats and interventions required to address
these. It will seek to facilitate coordination at the technical and policy levels among the four countries
through establishment of the Regional Technical Working Groups and support for their operation.
Country counterpart contributions of staff to participate in Technical Working Groups, training, and
coordination of project activities at the national level, will help ensure that these activities are sus-
tained beyond the life of project. Regional monitoring and information systems will help bind the
countries together through shared knowledge and provide the basis for informed policies and decision-
making at the regional level. Design of the regional EIS as a decentralized, Web-based System, housed
in the sponsoring institution of each country, has been developed with sustainability in mind. Alterna-
tive livelihood components involving recreational fisheries, diving, tourism and other small scale en-
terprise, should be income generating and self sustaining by end of project.
Sustainability of interventions over the long term will be enhanced through human resource develop-
ment and institutional capacity building, and through the commitment of donors and stakeholders in
30

---

the region to a program rather than a project approach. Financial sustainability will be enhanced
through efforts to leverage GEF financing in Phase 1 toward new investments by co-financiers in
Phases 2 and 3, by expanding the partnership, identifying synergies and demonstrating technical and
financial efficiencies of scale. The MBRS Project has already attracted donor interest beyond that re-
flected in Project co-financing. The MBRS Regional Action Plan, developed as a result of the Tulum
Declaration, in consultation with governments, NGOs, donors, research institutions and other seg-
ments of civil society in the four countries, serves as a road map for the future. The MBRSP, in con-
junction with WWF, IUCN, TNC, CCAD and others, have successfully catalyzed the interests of these
groups into a momentum that is building at all levels--from regional to local. It is envisioned that once
the Phase 1 Project gets off the ground and early results demonstrated, there will be increased interest
on the part of donors and other players in the region to become a part of this effort. Systematic out-
reach and information campaigns are planned early in Phase 1, with help from WWF to help capture
this potential. A donor's consultative group with links to the broader MBC Program is also envisioned
as part of the governance structure of the Project. This would help line up future funding and coordi-
nate interest in specific actions in support of the Tulum Declaration and Action Plan under the MBRS
Program.
Cost recovery for training, MPA management, environmental information systems, environmental cer-
tification and other fee-based services to be supported under the Project will be introduced at the end
of Phase 1, to promote continuity beyond the life of Project. Criteria for replicability and scaling up of
sustainable use activities in subsequent phases of the Program will include profitability, ease of adop-
tion and dissemination and demonstration value. With respect to recurrent costs for fuel, equipment
maintenance and some consumables, these in-kind contributions have already been absorbed into the
existing budgets of the implementing agencies, and should therefore prove manageable in the future.
By institutionalizing policy reforms, increasing the collection and flow of information, strengthening
institutions and collaborating with a broad array of stakeholders, the MBRS Program will build a
strong base of support that is likely to transcend changes in administration and personnel, and help
ensure continuity in the commitment of partners and the flow of resources over the life of the Program.
31

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2. Critical risks (reflecting assumptions in the fourth column of Annex 1):
Risk
Risk
Risk Mitigation Measure
Rating
Annex 1, "from Outputs to Objective"
Commitment to regional approach for
M
All four countries have reiterated commitments to conserving
MBRS management undermined by
the MBRS, and to the necessary regional cooperation, at the
national interests.
highest levels.
--CCAD's implementation of both the MBRS and the MBC
regional projects will promote a regional view in the policy
context.
--Environmental education and public awareness campaigns
will build support for conservation of the ecosystem as a
whole.
Coordination of activities at regional
S
Regional TWGs and workshops for each Project component
level difficult to operationalize on the
and theme will foster communication and good working rela-
ground. Weak institutional arrangements
tions across countries; PCU and national Project coordinators
for regional cooperation.
ensure coordination in implementation of annual work plans.
--Program Technical Advisory Committee will interface with
other donors to coordinate activities, attract new partners and
consolidate investments in MBRS consistent with the Action
Plan and TRCA.
Human resources and capacity not uni-
S
Project aims to build capacity to a minimum uniform standard
form across countries--obstacle to col-
for MPA management, ecosystem monitoring, fisheries data
laboration and achievement of program
collection and management through training and joint research,
objectives.
fostering intra-regional and north-south partnerships between
technical institutions.
Annex 1, "from Components to Outputs"
Establishment of MPAs in transbound-
M
Development of 10 year Management plans and 2 year Opera-
ary areas difficult, particularly enforce-
tional plans, along with resources for basic equipment and in-
ment.
frastructure to implement plans will facilitate MPA establish-
ment in T-BAs. Joint workshops and training for MPA staff in
T-BAs will foster collaboration in management, surveillance
and enforcement.
Economic displacement of traditional
N
A participatory process in the development of MPA manage-
users occurs in the context of MPA
ment plans involving local advisory committees and a Process
strengthening
Framework to mitigate economic displacement, should it oc-
cur, will greatly reduce impacts associated with this .
Regional ecosystem monitoring and
S
Requirement of Government counterpart contribution of staff
information system difficult to sustain.
to participate in monitoring and maintain data base according
to agreed protocols; support for equipment, training and travel
tied to data collection and sharing.
Information collected is not interpreted
M
Substantial TA provided to set up robust monitoring system to
and made available to decision-makers,
detect trends in status of MBRS; applied research on physical
and general public.
and biological factors (including human disturbance) affecting
overall health and productivity of MBRS supported through
co-financing and cooperative arrangements with MBRS part-
ners; data interpreted and made available to the public and
decision-makers.
Overall Risk Rating
S
The risk is significant but manageable.
Risk Rating - H (High Risk), S (Substantial Risk), M (Modest Risk), N (Negligible or Low Risk)
3. Possible controversial aspects:
Harmonizing policies across sectors and across countries is an ambitious undertaking. Countries are
normally conservative about giving up exclusive sovereignty over resources they control. This may
32

---

prove problematic in trying to reach regional accords on fisheries management issues. However, all
countries have expressed their support for the FAO Code of Conduct on Straddling Stocks and Migra-
tory Species and are signatories to the Cartagena Convention and its SPAW protocol on Species Con-
servation. The Project will help articulate key policy issues in different sectors and facilitate dialogue
on how to resolve these issues, as well as promote concrete steps toward policy harmonization,
through revising regulations, amending legislation, or drafting new laws where necessary to create
consistency across the four countries.
The Social Assessment has revealed issues at the local level related to urban and tourism development,
the decline of traditional livelihoods and insecure land tenure, as being of concern to indigenous
groups and other ethnic communities dependent on coastal resources. Some controversy also exists
over fishing grounds in transboundary areas between Mexico and Belize in the north and in the tri-
national border area in the Gulf of Honduras to the south. The absence of adequate governance ar-
rangements in these areas has resulted in poaching, which threatens international cooperation and
compliance with existing management structures. While policy and regulatory concerns can be taken
up at higher levels (e.g., inter-ministerial and steering committee/policy advisory groups, and bi- and
tri-national commissions to be supported under the Project), it will be necessary to set up conflict
management fora at the local level to deal with some of these issues The MPA component incorpo-
rates a provision for conflict management within the Management Planning process, and the Fisheries
TWG will promote a continuous dialogue between MBRS countries for join management of trans-
boundary fish stocks, and the possible establishment of international commissions for regional fisher-
ies management.
G: Main Grant Conditions
1. Effectiveness conditions:
There are seven conditions for Project Effectiveness: (a) that the Project Implementation Manual has
been issued and put into effect; (b) that the PCU has been established and is functional, with at least
the following personnel already hired and in place: the director, the account/finance officer, the pro-
curement officer, the natural resources management specialist and one administrative assistant; (c) that
the National Barrier Reef Committee in each country has been formally established and its composi-
tion documented through an official act or letter; (d) that the contract between CCAD and UNDP for
the latter to provide procurement and disbursement services to CCAD during Project implementation
has been entered into, and (e) that an adequate financial management system for the Project has been
implemented within the PCU which is acceptable to the World Bank. This would include procedures
for FMS operation and maintenance during project implementation (See Section C.4: Institutional and
Implementation Arrangements); (f).that a host country agreement has been entered into between Be-
lize and CCAD; and (g) that all requisite legal opinions on the Project's legal documentation have
been obtained. If, by project effectiveness, the PCU has not implemented a financial management sys-
tem with PMR capabilities, but one which meets minimum Bank requirements, the traditional dis-
bursement mechanisms (Statement of Expenditures, SOEs) will be used for the first two quarters of
Project implementation.
Many of these conditions for Project effectiveness are well advanced, including the hiring of PCU
staff and the preparation of the PIM. A contract to develop a financial management system acceptable
to the Bank is in place, and agreement on the basic elements of the contract between CCAD and
UNDP to provide procurement and disbursement services has been reached. A short list of auditors
acceptable to the Bank has been identified, and the formal documentation establishing the National
Barrier Reef Committees is under preparation in each country.
33

---

2. Other [classify according to covenant types used in the Legal Agreements.]
H: Readiness for Implementation
No
1. (a) The engineering design documents for the first year's activities
are complete and ready for the start of project implementation.
1. (b) Not applicable.
2. The procurement documents for the first year's activities are complete and ready for the start of pro-
ject implementation.
Nearly completed.
3. The Project Implementation Plan has been appraised and found to be realistic and of satisfactory
quality.
PIP has been completed. A Project Implementation Manual has been completed.
4. The following items are lacking and are discussed under loan conditions (Section G):
None.
I: Compliance with Bank Policies
Yes
1. This project complies with all applicable Bank policies.
2. The following exceptions to Bank policies are recommended for ap-
proval. The project complies with all other applicable Bank policies.
Marea Eleni Hatziolos
John Redwood
Donna Dowsett-Coirolo
Team Leader
Sector Manager
Country Manager
34

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Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 1
Project Design Summary
Hierarchy of
Key Performance
Monitoring and
Critical Assumptions
Objectives
Indicators
Evaluation
a. Sector-related CAS
Sector Indicators:
Sector/country reports
(Goal to Bank Mission)
Goal:
More rational use of coastal
National surveys, sec-
Other externalities do not
Reduced rural poverty
and marine resources to bal-
tor work in environ-
undermine social and eco-
and improved environ-
ance economic development
ment and social policy
nomic benefits from inte-
mental security through
and conservation needs.
grated management of the
sustainable management
coastal zone.
of natural resources.
Increased human and institu-
tional capacity for environ-
mental management.
b. GEF Operational
Maintenance of ecological
Regional Monitoring
Climate change related
Program:
integrity, resilience to natural
and EIS reports,
phenomena do not swamp
To enhance protection of
disturbance and continued
MBRS Atlas, and tar-
natural resilience of
ecologically unique and
productivity of MBRS.
geted research reports.
coastal and marine
vulnerable marine eco-
ecosystems to moderate
systems through intro-
levels of stress and
duction of an ecosystem
periodic disturbance nor
approach to conservation
generate unanticipated
and sustainable use.
social response.
Global Objective
Outcome/Impact Indicators
Project reports
(Objective to Goal)
To assist the countries of
Biological representation
(a) Annual reports of
National interests do not
Belize, Guatemala, Hon-
and ecological interconnec-
CCAD,
undermine incentives for
duras and Mexico to
tivity maintained in coastal
SEMERNAP
regional approaches to
manage the MBRS as a
and marine ecosystems
(MX), CZMA-I
management of trans-
shared, regional ecosys-
throughout MBRS.
(BZ), CONAMA/
boundary sys-
tem; safeguard its biodi-
Ecoregional approach to
Secretariat on the
tems/resources.
versity values and func-
MBRS management incor-
Environment (GT),
CCAD is successful in
tional integrity; and cre-
porated into conservation
and SERNA (HN).
raising awareness of
ate a framework for its
planning at local, national
(b) Changes in poli-
MBRS policy issues and
sustainable use.
and regional levels.
cies or operating
in prioritizing harmoniza-
Steps towards harmoniza-
guidelines in rele-
tion of policies and legis-
tion of relevant policies
vant sectors (or in
lation on SICA agenda.
Global Objectives
and legislation regarding
standards and
Lack of precedents for
To enhance protection of
MPA management in
regulations, e.g.,
regional cooperation at the
the ecologically unique
transboundary areas, sus-
use of EIA and
technical level do not act
and vulnerable marine
tainable fisheries manage-
land use planning
as a barrier to creation of
ecosystems comprising
ment; sustainable tourism
governing resource
new institutional ar-
the MBRS by assisting
development; and protec-
use).
rangements for such col-
riparian nations to
tion of coastal water qual-
(c) Surveys of donors,
laboration on the ground.
strengthen and coordinate
ity agreed and initiated in
multilateral pro-
Appropriate measures are
national policies, regula-
all four countries.
jects, and aca-
being implemented at lo-
tions, and institutional
Fora for regional coopera-
demia.
cal and national levels to
arrangements for the con-
tion at technical and policy
(d) Investment trends
mitigate land-based
servation and sustainable
levels operational.
in tourism sector.
sources of pollution.
use of this global public
(e) Regional coastal
good.
development plans
(in Honduras, Be-
lize, and Mexico).

---

Hierarchy of
Key Performance
Monitoring and
Critical Assumptions
Objectives
Indicators
Evaluation
Outputs from each com-
Output Indicators
Project Reports
(Outputs to Objective)
ponent:
Regional network of
MPA data baseline estab-
(a) Review of com-
There is sustained politi-
MPAs ensuring geo-
lished and monitoring pro-
pleted manage-
cal and budgetary com-
graphical and ecosystem
grams implemented by
ment plans.
mitment to management
representation established
PY4.
of MPAs.
and/or strengthened
10-year management plans
(b) Project bi-annual
throughout the MBRS.
developed for 4 MPAs by
reviews and
PY3.
supervision
2-year operational
reports.
plans/updates developed
(c) Technical reports
for 15 MPAs by PY4.
of monitoring
160 persons trained in
activities
MPA management by PY5.
Infrastructure and equip-
(d) Course evaluations
ment provided to two re-
completed by
gional MPA complexes by
trainees.
EOP
Basic equipment provided
to 11 MPAs by EOP.
Increased knowledge and
Synoptic monitoring pro-
(a) Monitoring reports
Sufficient supply of tech-
dissemination of infor-
gram designed and under
and technical pa-
nical assistance special-
mation relating to coastal
implementation by PY2.
pers incorporated
ized in sustainable man-
and marine ecosystem
Web-based, distributed
into EIS.
agement of coastal and
health in the MBRS.
regional EIS established
marine resources is avail-
and operational by PY3.
(b) Project bi-annual
able.
15 baseline reports on
reviews and
MBRS stakeholders are
MBRS ecosystem health
supervision
willing to harmonize data
produced and disseminated
reports.
access agreements for use
by PY5.
(c) International ac-
of information in EIS.
32 persons trained in op-
cess to knowledge
Required counterpart
eration and management of
generated regard-
funding is available on a
EIS by PY5.
ing MBRS via
timely basis to support
Basic equipment and infra-
Web-based EIS
participation of technical
structure provided to four
working groups and main-
national nodes of EIS by
taining EIS nodes.
PY2.
Basic field monitoring
equipment provided to im-
plementing organizations
by PY2.

---

Hierarchy of
Key Performance
Monitoring and
Critical Assumptions
Objectives
Indicators
Evaluation
Increased opportunities
Formulation of draft re-
(a) Technical reports
Political will exists on the
for sustainable use of
gional strategy for man-
of fisheries moni-
part of national-level au-
coastal and marine re-
agement of spawning ag-
toring activities.
thorities to adopt a re-
sources developed.
gregation sites completed
gional strategy for sus-
by PY5.
(b) Review of draft
tainable fisheries man-
168 persons trained in
regional strategy.
agement.
sustainable fisheries man-
agement and alternative
(c) Project bi-annual
income-generating activi-
reviews and super-
ties by PY5.
s.
vision report
Catalogue of exemplary
practices for coastal and
(d) Course evaluations
marine tourism industry
completed by
developed by PY2.
trainees.
Regional environmental
certification program de-
(e) Review of techni-
signed and implemented
cal reports relating
by PY5.
to sustainable tour-
Marine tourism exem-
ism, including
plary practices study tour
catalogue of ex-
designed and executed for
emplary practices
"emerging" marine tour
and regional certi-
operators by PY2.
fication program.
Analysis of tools for vol-
untary compliance with
harmonized policies re-
lated to use of MBRS re-
sources
236 persons trained in
sustainable tourism-
related activities by PY5.
Increased public aware-
160 schoolteachers, com-
(a) Project bi-annual
Public sector and civil
ness of the importance of
munity leaders, and busi-
reviews and super-
society are committed to
and demand for the con-
ness leaders trained in
vision reports.
incorporating project les-
servation of the MBRS at
MBRS concepts by PY5.
(b) Course evaluations
sons into broader initia-
regional and international
10,000 copies of training
completed by
tives for coastal resources
levels.
materials distributed by
trainees.
management.
community leaders
(c) Stakeholder sur-
Management staff of re-
throughout MBRS by
veys.
gional and national envi-
PY5.
ronmental authorities and
non-governmental stake-
holders within civil soci-
ety adopt good practice
and lessons learned
through training.

---

Hierarchy of
Key Performance
Monitoring and
Critical Assumptions
Objectives
Indicators
Evaluation
Increased regional coor-
1 MBRS Regional Steer-
(a) Project bi-annual
There is sustained politi-
dination and sustained
ing Committee, 1 Techni-
reviews and super-
cal commitment to MBRS
collaboration among
cal Advisory Committee
vision reports.
principles.
MBRS countries in man-
and 5 Technical Working
MBRS Regional Steering
agement of a shared
Groups established and
(b) Minutes of meet-
Committee reaches con-
transboundary ecosystem
operational by PY2.
ings of Steering
sensus on annual work
Analysis of economic
Committee and
program design and im-
development scenarios in
technical commit-
plementation.
the region to inform Pro-
tees.
Appropriate expertise and
gram development and
political authority is rep-
guide design of subse-
(c) Review of annual
resented on MBRS Re-
quent phases PY 2
work program.
gional Steering Commit-
Subset of policies in at
tee and Technical Work-
least three critical areas of (d) Project annual
ing Groups
shared MBRS resources
reviews
Other donors and partners
management (e.g., fisher-
agree to cooperate in de-
ies, tourism, MPA en-
(d) public records of
sign and implementation
forcement, water quality
laws and regula-
of activities within long-
standards, EIA protocols,
tions in concerned
term programmatic
etc.) harmonized by EOP
ministries
framework.
CCAD effectively inte-
CCAD regularly engages
(a) CCAD and SICA
grates regional eviron-
finance and other sectoral
Annual Reports
mental concerns into
ministries represented un-
SICA economic agenda
der SICA in development
dialogue
Regional environmental
concerns are reflected in
SICA's economic agenda
Project Components/
Inputs: (budget for each
Project reports
(Components to Outputs)
Sub-components: (see
component)
Annex 2 for description)
1. Marine Protected
US$5.0 million
(a) Annual and quar-
Required counterpart
Areas
terly reports
funding is available on a
(b) Procurement re-
timely basis.
cords
There is continued politi-
(c) Evaluation reports
cal support for regional
(d) Copies of con-
cooperation and national-
tracts
level implementation.
(e) Bank supervision
Civil society supports the
reports
principles behind and im-
(f) Field management
plementation of specific
reports
project activities.
2. Regional Environ-
US$4.4 million
Competent staff is ap-
mental Information
pointed and maintained to
System (EIS)
coordinate project activi-
ties on a timely basis.
3. Promotion of Sustain-
US$1.9 million
PCU has sufficient auton-
able Use of the MBRS
omy and authority to im-
plement project activities.
4. Public Awareness and
US$1.5 million
Environmental Education
5. Regional Coordination
US$2.4 million
and Project Management

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Annex 2
Page 1 of 18
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 2
Detailed Project Description
OVERVIEW
1.
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS), extending from the southern half of the Yu-
catan Peninsula to the Bay Islands of Honduras, includes the second longest barrier reef in the
world. It is unique in the Western hemisphere due to its length, composition of reef types, and
diverse assemblage of corals and related species. The MBRS contributes to the stabilization
and protection of coastal landscapes, maintenance of coastal water quality, and serves as
breeding and feeding grounds for marine mammals, reptiles, fish and invertebrates, many of
which are of commercial importance. The MBRS is also of immense socio-economic signifi-
cance providing employment and a source of income to an estimated one million people living
in adjacent coastal areas.
2.
Despite its significance in both ecological and socio-economic terms, the MBRS is increas-
ingly at risk from a number of threats. The principal anthropogenic threats to the ecological in-
tegrity and continued productivity of the MBRS include: dredging and construction activities
related to the expanding coastal tourism industry; growing and unplanned human settlements
located along the coast and cays of the MBRS; and water-borne pollutants originating from
untreated wastewater, industrial effluent and non-point sources of pollution, the latter princi-
pally in the form of agricultural runoff (see Map 1).
3.
Natural disturbances, associated with changes in regional and global oceanic and atmospheric
processes (which may be related to human induced climate change), also pose a growing
threat due to their increased frequency and amplitude. An intense El Niño episode in the fall of
1998 led to extensive bleaching of coral reefs, followed by massive damage to corals on ex-
posed portions of the MBRS as a result of Hurricane Mitch.
4.
Existing institutional arrangements in the region do not appear adequate to address many of
these threats. Institutional fragmentation at the national level is manifested in the sectoral ap-
proach to resource development (e.g., tourism, fisheries, agriculture, infrastructure). Such sec-
tor-specific approaches not only fail to take into account linkages between sectors but have
been similarly ineffective in addressing upstream, downstream, and coastal resource use con-
flicts, often at significant environmental and social costs. The challenge to manage the MBRS
is complicated by the transboundary nature of the System and the lack of an effective mecha-
nism to facilitate the regional cooperation needed to achieve a comprehensive management
approach. Any effort that purports to tackle the existing threats to the MBRS and to promote
its future sustainable use, will have to address both the prevalent sector-based approach to
managing natural resources in the MBRS region and the establishment of an effective institu-
tional and policy framework which supports a regional approach to management of this glob-
ally-significant resource. The Program described below reflects the aforementioned needs and
the realities of the region and has attempted to address them through incorporating a realistic,
gradualist approach into its design, one which will lead to the conservation and sustainable use
of the MBRS.

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PROGRAM GOAL, OBJECTIVES, AND APPROACH
5.
The goal of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System Project1 is to enhance protection of the
unique and vulnerable marine ecosystems comprising the MBRS, and to assist the countries of
Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras to strengthen and coordinate national policies, regu-
lations, and institutional arrangements for the conservation and sustainable use of this global
public good. The Project is part of a long-term Program to safeguard the integrity and contin-
ued productivity of the MBRS. The MBRS initiative is being actively promoted by a variety
of donors and partners in the region and within the context of the Mesoamerican Biological
Corridor Program.
6.
The regional objectives of the GEF/Bank supported MBRS Program, agreed to by the four
participating countries, are to: (a) strengthen Marine Protected Areas (MPAs); (b) develop and
implement a standardized data management system of ecosystem monitoring and facilitate the
dissemination of its outputs throughout the region; (c) promote measures which will serve to
reduce non-sustainable patterns of economic exploitation of MBRS, focusing initially on the
fisheries and tourism sectors; (d) increase local and national capacity for environmental man-
agement through education, information sharing and training; and (e) facilitate the strengthen-
ing and coordinating of national policies, regulations, and institutional arrangements for ma-
rine ecosystem conservation and sustainable use.
7.
The MBRS Program objectives are ambitious, and institutionally complex. In light of this, a
gradualist approach was incorporated into Project design. The time frame was shifted from an
initial 5 year Project to a 15 year Program, to be implemented in three phases. The three
phased approach provides the opportunity to build and expand on successful activities initiated
in the first phase, leading to a scaling up of Project scope and impact over the life of the Pro-
gram.
8.
A second consideration involves the geographical focus of the Program. Because it is not pos-
sible to support the implementation of all component activities across an area as large as the
MBRS, a phasing of Project focal areas has also been adopted. In the initial phase, many of
the field-based interventions are concentrated in the MBRS's two transboundary areas:
Chetumal Bay (Mexico and Belize) and Gulf of Honduras (Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras).
However, activities such as capacity building and policy harmonization are designed to in-
clude the entire MBRS. Ecosystem monitoring and research, sustainable use, and MPA man-
agement initiatives have been designed to expand as needed in subsequent phases of the Pro-
gram. The Program has already attracted the support of other partners, like WWF, who have
pledged some $2.5 million over the next five years to implement complementary activities in
support of the MBRS Action Plan. With additional assistance from the Governments of the
Netherlands, U.S., Canada and the EU, the Program is poised to expand to other areas of iden-
tified need.
9.
Finally, achieving institutional change is a long-term proposition, particularly when it entails
strengthening and coordinating national policies, regulations, and institutional arrangements in
a four country region. As such, during the Program's initial phase, institutional and policy is-
sues are addressed through activities that are integrated into the other components, and which
are designed to provide the basis for a broader and more in-depth treatment in the Program's
subsequent phases. See Table 1 below.
1 "The Project" refers to the Activities to be carried out during Phase 1 of a proposed 15 year Program for the Conservation
and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

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Table 1. Proposed Activities for Policy Objectives under the Project
Selected Policy / Institu- MBRS Program Action (s) Supported which Address the
Eventual Desired Institutional
tional Issues Addressed
Issue
Outcome
by MBRS Program
Absence of broad public
MBRS public awareness campaign and information dis-
Creation of an influential con-
and decision-maker sup-
semination
stituency among civil society and
port for the conservation
Establishment of an information clearing house facilitating
the private sector to promote the
and sustainable manage-
public access to MBRS-related information
required institutional and policy
ment of the MBRS
Updating of educational materials in primary and secon-
changes to conserve and sustain-
dary schools
ably manage the MBRS
Dissemination of MBRS material to target groups through
workshops
Provision of a forum for policy makers and MBRS stake-
holders to conduct a dialogue and develop consensus on a
agreed set of actions to promote sustainable use of the
MBRS (ecotourism and fisheries exploitation).
Increasing public participation in MPA planning and man-
agement activities
Absence of a coordinated,
Establishment of a regional EIS supported by national data Establishment of a reliable re-
regional approach to
nodes and procedures to share information and facilitate
gion-wide MBRS data base to
MBRS data collection,
increased public access to information on the signficance
support informed decision-
management, and dis-
and status of the MBRS
making and promote the devel-
semination
Developing a monitoring program which assesses the
opment of public consensus on
status and "health" of the MBRS
regional actions in support of the
Establishing a monitoring program of a regional network
conservation and sustainable
of MPAs to assess status and the effectiveness of man-
management of the MBRS
agement measures
Policy and institutional
Develop the required technical basis to modify exist-
Repeat and expand the process to
failures contributing to
ing/formulate new policies
include other sector and multi-
non-sustainable resource
Formulate and promote the adoption of new policy (on use
sector issues affecting the sus-
use practices
of fish aggregation sites, closed seasons, minimum sizes,
tainable use of the MBRS
fishing techniques and monitoring and surveillance)
Establish an environmental certification program; support
exposure to examples of "best practices" in the MBRS re-
gion.
Absence of a regional
Provision of support for achieving the effective manage-
Creation of bi-national MPA
approach to the conserva-
ment of a minimal number of MPAs to ensure adequate
management commissions
tion of coastal and marine
representation of regional ecosystems and geographic
Establishment of a Regional MPA
biodiversity of global
coverage
System
importance
Policy analysis in MPA plan preparation
Development of financial modules in management plan
Training of Customs Officials in the implementation of
CITES Regulations
Absence of a regional
Promotion of regional TWG for MBRS components, in-
Formalize regional coordination
institutional framework to
cluding a TWG dedicated specifically to Policy and Regu-
arrangements on sectoral lines
promote the formulation
lations
Harmonization of sectoral-based
of policies, regulations,
Support for bi-national and tri-national MPA consultative
policies affecting the MBRS
and an institutional ap-
meetings
Improved policy formulation
proach to manage the
Achieving financial sustainability
MBRS as a comprehen-
including attracting outside
sive system.
sources of investment
PROGRAM COMPONENTS, PHASE 1
Component 1. Marine Protected Areas (US$5.0 million)
10.
Many of the MBRS's more than sixty existing and proposed coastal and marine protected ar-
eas exist only on paper and have little or no on-site management. Moreover, a significant

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number of MPAs lack up to date master and operational plans and the associated basic infra-
structure and equipment needed for their implementation. This includes ranger stations, patrol
boats, interpretation infrastructure such as trails and signage, and computers and communica-
tions equipment. Of equal significance is the absence of sound financial strategies in most of
these areas, a prerequisite to achieving greater self-sufficiency and attracting additional out-
side investment. Finally, even in those areas that have on the ground management presence
and the required infrastructure and equipment, staff often lack the skills needed to carry out
their core responsibilities.
11.
Support under this component will be limited to a total of 15 MPAs (see Table 2 below),
eleven of which already have some legal protection, and four others which are in different
stages of the process leading to their legal creation (Map 2). Criteria for MPA selection were
based on the significance of the protected area with respect to contributing to MBRS ecosys-
tem characteristics, diversity and processes. The majority of the MPAs (9) are located in the
two transboundary areas of the MBRS, Chetumal Bay and the Gulf of Honduras, respectively.
In the transboundary areas themselves, there are several MPAs which are separated by na-
tional boundaries and are managed as separate units. Two of these bi-national MPA com-
plexes, (the Xcalak/Bacalar Chico, and Sarstoon-Temash/Sarstún ) situated in the Mexico-
Belize and Belize-Guatemala transboundary areas respectively, will be assisted through the
Program with the additional objective of promoting a regional approach to their management.
Selection of the remaining MPAs, in addition to the aforementioned criteria, was made with
the intent to ensure a spatially dispersed pattern of protected areas loosely connecting the Pro-
gram's two transboundary areas (Map 1). By the end of the Program's first phase, this strategy
for MPA selection and support is expected to result in a minimally acceptable number and
geographic coverage of well managed MPAs in the MBRS region. These MPAs will serve as
regional models from which expansion and replication could occur to other protected areas in
the Program's future phases. The component consists of the following two sub-components
Table 2. Marine and Coastal Protected Areas to be Support through the MBRS MPA Component
Protected Area
Predominant Ecosystems
Legal
Status of Planning Support to be Provided
Status
1
Banco Chinchorro
Seagrass, reef, cays
Existing
Management plan
OP, modest management
2
Santuario del Manati
Mangroves and seagrass
Existing
Management plan
OP, modest management
3
Corozal Bay
Mangroves and seagrass
Existing
No plan
MP/OP, modest management
4
Xcalak1
Seagrass, mangrove, reef
Existing
Plan being prepared3 Expand MP,OP, major management
5
Bacalar Chico1
Seagrass, mangrove, reef
Existing
Management plan
OP, major management
6
South Water Caye
Seagrass, mangrove, reef
Existing
Management plan
OP, modest management
7
Glover's Reef
Cays, reef, seagrass
Existing
Management plan
OP, modest management
8
Port Honduras
Cays, reef, seagrass
Existing
Plan being prepared OP, modest management
9
Gladden Spit
Reef (spawning aggrega-
Existing
No plan
MP/OP, modest management
tions)
10
Sapodilla Cays
Reef, cays, seagrass
Existing
Management plan
OP, modest management
11
Sarstoon-Temash2
Mangroves and estuaries
Existing
No plan
MP/OP, major management
12
Sarstún 2
Mangroves and estuaries
Proposed
Plan being prepared OP, major management
13
Punta de Manabique
Swamp forest, mangrove
Proposed
Plan being prepared OP, modest management
14
Omoa-Baracoa
Coastal wetlands, man-
Proposed
No plan
MP/OP, modest management
groves, swamp forests
15
Utila/Turtle Harbor
Swamp forest, reefs, sea-
Existing
Plan nearly finished4 Expand MP/OP, major management
grass, lagoons
1 Consists of one of the two MPAs forming the MPA complex in the Bahia de Chetumal.
2 Consists of one of the two MPAs forming the MPA complex in the Golfo de Honduras.
3 Plan does not include the Bacalar Chico portion of the transboundary MPA.
4 Plan only covers Turtle Harbor.

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Sub-component A - Planning, Management, and Monitoring of Marine Protected Areas ($4.45 mil-
lion)
12.
The emphasis of the sub-component will be to support immediate improvements in MPA pro-
tection and management while increasing the sustainability of management efforts. Specific
activities include:
Establishment of MPA Data Baselines and Monitoring Programs. Rapid evaluations of basic eco-
logical and socio-economic factors and conditions, including legal and policy analyses and land
tenure issues, will be carried out for each MPA included in the Program's first phase. A methodo-
logical approach to establishing a baseline will be designed through support for a meeting of re-
gional experts supported by an international consultant with expertise in the field. Together with
local scientists, the team will carry out a rapid assessment of baseline conditions for each MPA. A
second regional expert meeting will be held to review the initial results of these assessments and
devise a monitoring methodology appropriate for park staff to periodically monitor the status of
their respective MPA. The periodic monitoring of selected indicators of MPA ecosystems "health"
will provide a means to gauge the effectiveness of Program-supported management efforts.
Development of Management Plans for MPAs. New, 10-year master management plans will be
prepared for four MPAs (Corozal Bay, Gladden Spit, Sarstoon-Temash, and Omoa-Baracoa. In
each management plan, financial strategies will be formulated specifying existing and potential
revenue generation alternatives and including identification of local and international funding
sources. For these and for the remaining 11 MPAs, which already have long-term management
plans, two year operational plans will be prepared, providing greater detail and specific budgets
for activities identified in the master plans. These will be updated annually. Under this activity,
funds will be provided for local and international consultants; participatory workshops; prepara-
tion, publication and dissemination of management and operational plans; and the publication of
documents appropriate for broader public distribution such as executive summaries of manage-
ment plans, MPA maps, and posters. Short-term technical assistance will be provided to evaluate
the success to date of plan implementation, review and harmonize planning methodologies, and
periodically evaluate the efficacy of plan implementation.
Basic Equipment and Infrastructure for MPA Plan Implementation. This activity will support the
purchase of basic equipment and infrastructure needed in each MPA to facilitate the planning pro-
cess, enhance administrative capacity, and allow MPA staff to rapidly implement the priority
measures outlined in the aforementioned operational plans. Likely equipment and infrastructure
for the two regional MPA complexes (the Xcalak/Bacalar Chico, and Sarstoon-Temash/Sarstún )
and Utila Island (Honduras)2 will include: boats, motors, and motorcycles; dive equipment; moor-
ing and marker buoys; ranger stations; and public use facilities (visitor centers, signage, trails, and
composting toilets). For the remaining 10 MPAs, a basic package of computer hardware, software
and peripherals as well as communications equipment (base and mobile radios, batteries and
chargers); GPS units; and basic office furniture will be provided.
Transboundary Cooperation in Policy, Protection, and Management of MPAs. Most of the MPAs
selected to receive support under the Program are located adjacent or in proximity to international
borders. Current issues in need of effective bi- and tri-national management responses include
management of migratory fish and wildlife stocks, addressing cross-border infractions of existing
laws, and the conservation and management of trans-frontier parks. Under this activity, funds will
2 While Utila is not a transboundary area per se, it includes regionally important fish spawning aggregations, serves as a
potential source of recruitment to adjacent MBRS systems, and is ecologically closely linked to nearby protected areas in
neighboring countries due to dominant currents.

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be provided to facilitate regular meetings of the field and supervisory staff of MPA management
agencies in Chetumal Bay and the Gulf of Honduras transboundary areas. It is expected that these
meetings and the resulting dialogue and decisions will provide the eventual basis for formalizing
the process leading to the joint (i.e., bilateral) management of these and other MPAs in the trans-
boundary areas.
Sub-component B - Institutional Strengthening of MPAs ($.550 million)
13.
Capacity building for MPA management will be supported under this sub-component and will
focus on regional training courses and workshops for protected area directors, technical staff,
rangers, and key collaborators from local and national government agencies, collaborating
NGOs, and local communities, will be supported under this sub-component.
Marine Park and Tourism Resource Development Program. Training events will be provided for
senior and mid-level MPA managerial staff, para-professional staff of MPA agencies; senior gov-
ernment, university and NGO staff; rangers; supervisory staff at relevant government agencies and
NGOS; tourism institution staff; community leaders, municipal representatives, local entrepre-
neurs and community association representatives. Events include the following: management
planning for MPAs; principles of MPA management; development of MPA financial strategies;
administration of MPAs; basic training for MPA rangers; community relations; MPA public use
and tourism programs. Most training will take place in two to three week sessions.
Training Library Development. In addition to supporting regional training events, the Program
will also provide a basic standardized training library to all MPA headquarters and ranger stations
throughout the MBRS region (approximately fifty offices). This would facilitate continual profes-
sional improvement for MPA field staff who often lack even minimal access to training manuals,
natural history publications, and other books on themes relevant to MPA management programs.
Component 2. Regional Environmental Monitoring and Information System (US$4.4 million)
14.
The establishment of a regional environmental information system (EIS) will provide an es-
sential tool to organize and manage data to support improved decision-making. Moreover, a
regional EIS can be used interactively with other Program components, serving both as a re-
cipient of and source for data. In the Program's initial phase, the objective of the EIS compo-
nent will be to provide the basic framework to guide the collection, processing, distribution
and utilization of data to promote improved management of the MBRS. Specifically, the com-
ponent will support the design and implementation of a bilingual EIS whose architecture will
allow broad access to policy makers, technicians, and the public at large. While the establish-
ment of an EIS will be a major product of the initial phase of the MBRS Program, it neverthe-
less should be viewed as a "living" system that will grow in complexity and value as new data
are developed and made accessible.
15.
A second objective of the component is to develop a reliable base of data which can be used
to support more informed management decisions. Ecological linkages between reefs, other
marine environments, and coastal watersheds, are mediated, partially or entirely, by water
flow. However, despite the importance of water currents in transporting nutrients, pollutants,
and reproductive products across ecosystem and national boundaries, there is a dearth of data
on the region's current regime and its influence on the status and processes of MBRS reefs
and other critical ecosystems. The component will support collection of oceanographic infor-
mation and data on reproduction, larval dispersal, and recruitment of corals, fish, and other
important reef components, to further our understanding of links between reefs and other ma-
rine environments, and processes which influence reef integrity. This sub-component will

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benefit from considerable parallel co-financing to be provided by the Government of Canada
and University of Miami.
Sub-component A - Creation and Implementation of a Distributed, Web-based EIS ($1.70 million)
16.
A web-based EIS will be established which will provide a tool to organize and disseminate
basic environmental data for reefs and other ecosystems and adjacent waters in the MBRS re-
gion, outflows from selected watersheds, and secondary data obtained from other local and re-
gional data sources including relevant broader-scale monitoring programs such as
CARICOMP and CPACC. Specific activities to be supported through this sub-component are:
EIS Design and Implementation. Through this activity, the sub-component will support the design,
purchase of equipment, and provision of technical support required to implement a distributed,
web-based, bilingual EIS. The EIS will consist of two tiers, a primary, technical tier accessible to
all participating data nodes, and a secondary, publicly accessible tier providing information on the
MBRS; the latter in support of the Program's public education and other components. Equipment
purchased under this activity consists of high end work stations and computers for a regional of-
fice (see below) and national node offices established in the four participating countries.
A series of intensive, in-country training workshops to build node agency skills in GIS and data
management will include (a) the design of monitoring programs that support improved decision-
making, (b) interpretation of remotely sensed data, and (c) statistical analysis of monitoring data
including "reference condition" and other advanced techniques. All participating agencies will
have a role in the development of the training program to target their respective institution's needs.
Meta-database. A critical component of the EIS, will be the establishment of a comprehensive
meta-database, a regional bibliography, and a core of legacy databases which will be maintained
by the aforementioned regional office. At minimum, baseline geo-referenced maps, and first-cut
distributions of major watersheds, coastal water masses, and broad habitat types in shallow waters
will be included in the EIS. Much of these data will have to be generated by appropriate node
agencies and/or the regional office.
Information Dissemination. Provision of information (electronically and in print) stemming from
monitoring and other activities being undertaken to gauge and manage the environmental "health"
of the MBRS will be supported through the Program's website An MBRS atlas on both CD ROM
and hard copy media will be prepared in PY 4, which can be updated periodically as new data be-
come available.
Sub-component B - Establishment of a Synoptic MBRS Monitoring Program ($2.65 million)
17.
Under this sub-component, a regional monitoring program for the collection of synoptic data
on physical oceanography (surface currents and temperatures), and ecological connections
among and between reefs and adjacent ecosystems (including coastal watersheds) will be im-
plemented. Monitoring activities will be planned and designed in association with the MBRS
MPA monitoring activity described above, to ensure technical coherence and operational effi-
ciency between the two activities. Specific activities to be supported under this sub-component
include:
Baseline Assessment and Monitoring Program. This activity will support the preparation of an
MBRS environmental baseline, based on available information on current regime, areas of high
pollution risk, community structure and dynamics, and linkages between key ecosystems to assess
vulnerability and connectivity. The results of the study will be presented at an initial planning

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workshop of the component's Technical Working Group (TWG) in PY 1. It will be the TWG's
task to develop a detailed proposal for a regional monitoring program to include surface current
patterns, sources of pollution and water quality, and reef community dynamics including coral and
fish recruitment.
In the initial phase of the Program, the geographic emphasis of the monitoring activities will be in
the two transboundary areas of the MBRS. Selection criteria will likely include: presence of biodi-
versity-rich ecosystems; importance of the areas as sources or sinks for recruitment of corals, fish,
and other important community components; and presence and degree of threat associated with
pollution stemming from onshore activities. An additional five or six sites at strategic locations be-
tween the northern and southern transboundary areas will be established to contribute to a more
complete understanding of the ecological processes that characterize the MBRS.
Targeted Research. The monitoring study will be supported by ancillary field studies. These will
include:
Characterization of presence, composition, and status of specific biotic communities in prox-
imity to monitoring stations.
A module which will monitor the flow and water quality at stations in proximity to Rio
Hondo, New River, Motagua River, Chamelecon River and Ulua Rivers to include an assess-
ment of their importance as outlets for agro-chemicals and other bioactive compounds that
may affect the "health" of the reefs, This will include support for development of a set of bio-
monitoring indicators that would allow more simple and cost effective monitoring of water
quality, and which could be applied routinely to coral reef sites throughout the region, includ-
ing MPAs.
A risk analysis using satellite imagery of river flood plumes, and/or analysis of offshore sedi-
ments derived from terrigenous materials, to identify those reef communities that are most at
risk to river-borne pollutants.
Development of a hydrodynamic surface flow model for the region, a key output scheduled
near the end of the Program's first phase.
The monitoring program and targeted research will be supported through the purchase of sampling
equipment, logistical support for data collection, funding for laboratory analyses, and specialized
technical assistance. This research will be complemented by proposed research on oceanographic and
other factors affecting recruitment from source reefs to sink reefs within or adjacent to the MBRS, in-
formation vital to the strategic siting or expansion of MPAs in the region. The latter research on reef
connectivity will be funded through co-financing provided by the Government of Canada and Univer-
sity of Miami.
Component 3. Promoting Sustainable Use of the MBRS (US$1.9 million)
18.
There is growing evidence that non-sustainable resource use practices are in aggregate begin-
ning to affect the overall "health" of the MBRS. The objective of this component is to support
the introduction of new policy frameworks and management tools to increase institutional ca-
pacity, disseminate key information and create the necessary incentives for stakeholders to
shift toward patterns of sustainable use of MBRS resources. This component will initially fo-
cus on the two most significantly important and potentially harmful economic sectors depend-
ent on the MBRS, fishing and tourism. These have been combined in successful pilots activi-
ties in Belize with the conversion of reef fishermen to recreational (fly-fishing) and sea kayak-

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ing tour operators. Other opportunities involving women, such as tour guides in adjacent
coastal protected areas, in value added processing of fish catch, in marketing of cultural
amenities and as small hotel or pension operators, will also be explored and promising ap-
proaches scaled up in subsequent phases. WWF, in the meantime, has identified this area as
one in which significant co-financing resources will be placed.
Sub-component A - Promotion of Sustainable Fisheries Management ($1.04 million)
19.
Several commercial species of finfish, crustacea and mollusks are either fully or over-
exploited throughout the MBRS region. Not only do these species represent an important eco-
nomic resource to coastal communities, many of them play key functional roles in the reef
ecosystem. Despite the importance of the resource, sustainable management objectives for
most of these species have rarely been achieved in the region; a situation attributed largely to a
lack of awareness (among policy makers, resource managers and fishers, alike); poor educa-
tion; conflicts among coastal-based resource user groups; and minimum research capacity in
the MBRS region. This sub-component will address some of the causes of overfishing by sup-
porting: (a) monitoring and management of spawning aggregation sites, (b) improved institu-
tional capacity in sustainable fisheries management, (c) promotion of alternative livelihood
systems, and (d) support dialogue aimed at developing a Regional Fisheries Policy.
Monitoring and Management of Spawning Aggregation Sites. A key stage in the reproductive cy-
cle of many of the commercially important reef-based fish species in the MBRS is the periodic ag-
gregation of spawning populations in geographically-specific areas. Knowledgeable fishers exploit
these resources without restriction. To date there are few data to assess the consequences of these
fishing practices on either the fish populations or the MBRS at large. Nor are there consistent na-
tional or regional policies to manage the practice. The objective of this activity is to support the
collection and analysis of scientific and anecdotal information: (a) documenting the location of
these sites, (b) ascertaining their ecological and socio-economic importance, and (c) estimating the
degree of exploitation (by fishing and other activities), with priority given to commercially impor-
tant species, and (d) assessing the impact on population demographics. A key output from this ac-
tivity will be the formulation of a draft regional policy to control the exploitation of these sites.
This policy will form part of a broader Regional Fisheries Policy, which will focus on the har-
monization of closed seasons, minimum sizes, fishing techniques, and joint monitoring and sur-
veillance.
Institutional Strengthening. This activity will identify and test new approaches to the sustainable
management of fisheries that could be expanded and replicated in possible future Program phases.
These are:
Design and implementation of a regional fisheries data collection and management system.
This activity will review existing fisheries data collection systems in the region, determine the
feasibility of modifying them to suit MBRS needs, and produce a common fisheries data col-
lection and management system for the MBRS, in the form of software and a users manual.
This system will be compatible with the EIS. Copies of the software, users manual, computers
and printers will be provided, together with training, to the four countries respective fisheries'
agencies in an effort to promote immediate use of the new data collection system.
Training in and provision of existing computer-based management models (ECOPATH and
ECOSIM) to the four countries to support, on a pilot basis, the adoption of an ecosystem-
based approach to fisheries management.

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Regional and national training for fishers, government officials and members of NGOs in
fisheries co-management techniques.
A study addressing the socio-economic interrelationships between fishing and other user
groups (particularly tourism) within the coastal zone of the MBRS. This assessment will in-
clude a cost-benefit analysis of fisheries relative to other sectors; identify positive relation-
ships and conflicts between fishers and other user groups and will recommend guidelines for
enhancing positive relationships as well as conflict resolution measures between fishers and
competing sectors in the coastal zone; and identify opportunities for multiple use.
Support for professional peer exchange and hands-on training in specific skills for technicians
working in fisheries issues in the MBRS region. This activity will allow for the comparison
and joint analysis of fisheries data, as part of the basis upon which a Regional Fisheries Policy
will be developed.
Promotion of Sustainable Livelihoods. Training of fishers from the transboundary areas in alterna-
tive income generating activities will be conducted in PY2 and PY3. This activity will give fishers
the capacity needed to diversify from fishing into more sustainable income-generating activities,
based on other successful initiatives in the region. Training will include, but not be limited to,
kayaking, sport-fishing, SCUBA, leading nature tours, etc. After training, the equipment used for
training (kayaks, rods and reels, paddles, life-vests, fly kits, etc.) would be housed within the train-
ing institution and rented to trained fishers at a low cost.
Sub-component B - Facilitation of Sustainable Coastal and Marine Tourism ($.85 million)
20.
Tourism is the world's fastest growing industry. Tourist arrivals to the Central America sub-
region represented the highest average annual percentage growth increase within the Americas
region over the past 3 years. A large part of this growth is in nature-based tourism, relying on
the amenities or attractions of the Caribbean Basin's unique marine environment. The MBRS
still boasts some of the least spoiled coastal profiles and some of the most outstanding under-
water experiences in the Caribbean. However, in the absence of adequate environmental man-
agement guidelines or regulatory regimes, proliferation of traditional sea and sun tourism in
parts of the region has occurred, putting many of these amenities at risk. There is a critical
need to stimulate an on-going policy dialogue and take specific steps to ensure that sustainable
tourism principles and practices are implemented through regional cooperation in fast growing
tourism destinations within the MBRS.
21.
The objective of this sub-component is to formulate and apply policy guidelines and best prac-
tice models for sustainable coastal and marine tourism in the four countries of the MBRS. The
desired outcome is to provide and disseminate examples that demonstrate how to minimize the
adverse impacts of tourism and enhance its potential beneficial effects on coastal/marine habi-
tats and resources and on human communities located near tourism destinations. The follow-
ing activities are planned over the initial five-year phase of the Program:
Regional Policy Dialogue and Cooperative Action Forum. To facilitate a tourism policy that is
consistent with marine conservation objectives enshrined in the Tulum Declaration and other in-
ternational conventions, senior government officials, MPA managers and their tourism industry
counterparts need to be better informed about critical coastal and marine tourism issues and prob-
lems. Priority issues include support for rigorous environmental impact assessment, inspection and
enforcement systems for coastal resource development; guidance on the design of innovative re-
gional trip circuits which "package" and market marine parks and other tourist destinations; selec-

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Annex 2
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tion of at least one specific priority issue each year requiring regional cooperation and develop-
ment of an agreed action agenda to address it.
Catalogue of Exemplary Practices. Voluntary codes of conduct in critical segments of the coastal
and marine tourism industry need to be considered and adopted by tourism-related businesses.
This activity will support an extensive literature search and interviews with sustainable tourism
experts, from which "good practices" will be identified and adapted for use in the MBRS region.
A catalogue of "exemplary practices" for sustainable coastal tourism will be developed and dis-
seminated widely in the region through print and the Program's website.3
Regional Environmental Certification and Voluntary Compliance Program. Under this activ-
ity, a region-wide, independent environmental certification program will be established for
coastal and marine tourism operations in key sub-sectors (e.g., hotel/resort facilities, diving
operations, yachting and live aboard, ecolodges, cruise ship tours on land). This regional pro-
gram will include: (a) agreement on a strategy and road map for certification, including per-
formance based standards for environmental certification/ecolabeling; (b) formulation and
adoption of an independent certification and marketing system that positions the MBRS region
as one of the world's leading sustainable tourism destinations; (c) provision of resources for
establishment of the program on a pilot basis in high priority transboundary tourism destina-
tions linked to one or more MPAs; and (d) development and adoption of a plan for expanding
and financing the certification system (e.g., fee for service, cooperative marketing to the green
market). Efforts will be made to create cost effective linkages and cooperative activities with
other on-going certification programs (such as those sponsored by Caribbean Action for Sus-
tainable Tourism). Complementing this will be a study (e), toexplore with the private sector
and other non-public sector stakeholders, the efficiency of various tools in promoting volun-
tary compliance, such as negotiated sectoral compliance, performance rating mechanisms and
information disclosure.
Marine Tourism Exemplary Practices Study Tour. A two-week marine tourism exemplary prac-
tices study tour will be designed for "emerging" marine tour operators in the MBRS to network
and share ideas with 5 or 6 established and leading adventure travel, marine travel and ecotourism
operators in Central America. Throughout the Tour, experts will conduct seminars on a number of
topics, including product development, marketing strategies, partnering with the travel trade,
packaging, and market research. Materials will be prepared on environmental practices, commu-
nity involvement, conservation financing and interpretation. A technical report will also be drafted
and widely disseminated to the tourism industry, interested NGOs and government officials
through print and the Program website in order to share lessons learned, case examples and pitfalls
to avoid.
Marine Park and Tourism Resource Development Program. A marine park and tourism resource
development training program will be offered, based upon the model training program being de-
signed for the Honduras Sustainable Coastal Tourism Project. The following content will be cov-
ered: (a) setting objectives necessary for the successful future of the MPAs, (b) techniques for cre-
ating and developing a market position for the MPAs (individually and as a group) and establish-
ing this position in relevant marketplaces, such as with travel wholesalers and in tourism maga-
zines, (c) concessions and outsourcing mechanisms for managing ancillary services offered in and
around the MPAs, such as food, lodging, and guide services, as well as security, maintenance,
parking, transportation and a host of other services, (d) fund raising, accounting, financial man-
3 "Exemplary" refers to those practices that have been shown to produce superior results; are elected by a systematic process;
and judged as exemplary, good, or successfully demonstrated. The practices then need to be adapted to fit a particular organi-
zation and practiced by exemplary operators.

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Annex 2
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agement and reporting, to provide better accountability to donors and improve ability to negotiate
joint ventures and investment projects with tour operators, hoteliers and other tourism organiza-
tions; (e) environmental education in tourism and natural resources in order to meet the manage-
ment objectives for protected areas, (f) park interpretation to improve environmental outreach to
tourists and the general public; and (g) community participation, to encourage ownership of park
objectives and facilitate access to conservation and tourism-related benefits by communities living
in the buffer zones surrounding protected areas. Priority emphasis will be placed on identifying
economic instruments in the marine tourism industry that could be used to enhance compliance
with sustainable tourism policies and regulations, capitalize local trust funds for environmental
management in the coastal zone, and create social funds for community development and income
generation in areas impacted by tourism. A survey of tour operators, hotel owners and reef recrea-
tion-related businesses at selected MPAs and municipalities will be conducted to clarify their pref-
erences relative to economic instruments and revenue generating mechanisms. The results will be
used in the training program and disseminated widely in the region.
Component 4. Public Awareness and Environmental Education (US$1.5 million)
22.
A major underlying cause of threats identified in the Threat and Root Cause Analysis com-
pleted in support of MBRS Program preparation was the lack of public education on and
awareness of the significance of the System and the issues that need to be addressed to ensure
its sustainability. A critical element to developing the political will and policies required to
manage the MBRS will be building the necessary public support to catalyze change. The ob-
jective of the component is to increase environmental awareness among a variety of stake-
holders and develop the human capital necessary to plan and manage the diverse resources of
the MBRS within a proven framework of conservation and sustainable use. The component
consists of the following two sub-components: (a) development of an environmental aware-
ness campaign, and (b) formal and informal education.
Sub-component A - Development of an Environmental Awareness Campaign ($.93 million)
23.
Under this sub-component, the general public's awareness of the importance of the MBRS as
a "world class" resource and the need to promote its conservation and sustainable use will be
increased. This will be carried out through support for the development of a broad-based pub-
lic awareness campaign based on the use of printed and audio-visual materials. Specific activi-
ties supported under the campaign include:
Public Awareness Campaign Strategy. This will be developed through a series of meetings and
interviews with key stakeholders in the four MBRS countries. It will be implemented on a national
basis and focus on the value and need for conservation of the shared resources of the MBRS. The
strategy will include the following elements:
Establishment of a Database and Information Clearinghouse. MBRS-relevant materials and re-
sources located within and beyond the region will be entered into a database which will be
made accessible through the MBRS Program Website. A catalog of MBRS reference materi-
als, to include all printed and audio-visual materials produced by Program components, will be
compiled and made available to the public. This will also include information on environ-
mental regulations and emissions/water quality standards, EIA permitting, zoning for multiple
use, and environmental certification related to the MBRS to increase transparency and moni-
toring of compliance with these regulations
Development and Dissemination of Information Materials. In support of the campaign, printed
and audio-visual materials (e.g., best practices guides and public education teaching materi-

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Annex 2
Page 13 of 18
als), will also be reproduced and distributed to target audiences. All materials will be produced
in English, Spanish and, in some cases, Garífuna .
Two, one-day seminars for National Barrier Reef Committees and mass media representatives
will be held in each of the four countries to promote the Program and disseminate the printed
and audio-visual materials.
Sub-component B - Formal and Informal Education ($.55 million)
24.
The objective of this sub-component will be to increase knowledge and promote changes in
attitudes and behavior towards the conservation and sustainable use of the MBRS through the
strengthening of formal and informal environmental education programs, with particular focus
on the two MBRS transboundary areas. Specific activities which will be supported under this
sub-component are:
Production and Dissemination of Education Materials. Students at primary and secondary school
levels will be educated about the significance of MBRS and the need to promote sustainable man-
agement practices. Assistance will be provided through creation and/or adaptation of curriculum
materials for students, as well as teachers' guides and teacher training to ensure successful use.
Specifically, this activity will support the production of primary school level curriculum materials
for students and associated teaching guides, and two regional, 6-day training workshops for teach-
ers. Secondary school level curriculum materials for students and associated teaching guides will
also be produced. Two regional, 6-day training workshops for teachers of primary and secondary
schools will complement the development of educational materials. An annual coastal resources
fair and contest will be established for secondary school level students to exhibit and award pro-
jects that most successfully incorporate MBRS conservation and sustainable use themes.
Regional Workshops and Conferences. Non-formal education will be provided for professionals in
the industrial and tourism sectors which directly affect MBRS resources and for community lead-
ers who exert strong influence on MBRS stakeholders. These will be coordinated with workshops
and training materials developed under the sustainable tourism sub-component to expose partici-
pants to best practices in tourism and other sectors with direct impacts on MBRS resources.
Awards to publicly recognize those who demonstrate their commitments to conservation and sus-
tainable use of MBRS resources will also be supported.
Regional Coordination and Project Management (US$2.4 million)
25.
CCAD will be the implementing agency for the MBRS Program and will oversee execution by
the Program Coordination Unit of the five year Project proposed during Phase 1 (see below).
At the policy level, the Program will be coordinated by the MBRS Regional Steering Commit-
tee (RSC) made up of representatives of CCAD and each of the existing National Barrier Reef
Committees in the four MBRS countries; ex-officio members will include those representing
donor organizations and partner institutions working on related issues in the region. An MBRS
Liaison Officer will be contracted within CCAD to facilitate coordination and to expedite
feedback between CCAD in San Salvador and the PCU in Belize. The RSC will be supported
by a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) composed of internationally recognized experts in
the technical areas of project assistance. A regional Program Coordination Unit (PCU) based
in Belize will be responsible for direct implementation of the five year Project during the Pro-
gram's first phase. Technical support will be provided to the PCU by Regional Technical
Work Groups (TWG) made up of appropriately selected representatives from the National
Barrier Reef Committees complemented by regional/international consultants on an "as-

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Annex 2
Page 14 of 18
needed" basis.4 The TWGs will be supported by a Policy Working Group that will help ar-
ticulate and raise to appropriate levels for consideration, the priority policy objectives and ac-
tions required to harmonize frameworks governing the use of MBRS resources in the region.
Program activities under each of the four proposed components--Marine Protected Areas;
Regional Environmental Information System (EIS); Promotion of Sustainable Use of the
MBRS; and Public Awareness and Environmental Education--will be executed by a mix of
local and regional execution entities. A more detailed description of the organizational frame-
work and responsibilities at each level is provided below:
MBRS Regional Steering Committee. Membership of the RSC will be comprised of the Executive
Secretary of the CCAD5 or his delegate, and the National Coordinators of each of the four Na-
tional Barrier Reef Committees. The Director of the PCU will serve as a non-voting member and
act as secretary for the Steering Committee . The RSC will provide overall policy guidance within
the general and intermediate objectives of the Program, and will coordinate the participation of na-
tional, regional and international governmental and non-governmental counterpart organizations'
in the implementation of the Program. It will review and approve annual work plans and resolve
coordination issues that may arise between countries. The RSC will meet twice annually: (a) in
early December to evaluate Program activities for the outgoing year presented in the form of an
annual report, and to review and approve proposed activities for the subsequent year in the form of
an aggregated annual work plan; and (b) in mid July to monitor progress in the implementation of
activities proposed in annual work plans. Both of these meetings will also be used to analyze and
resolve any regional policy and coordination issues that may be affecting Program implementa-
tion.
Consultative Group. A Consultative Group consisting of .representatives from donor organiza-
tions and partner institutions working in the region on issues related to the MBRS will liase with
the RSC through the PCU to identify synergies for Program development and attract additional co-
financing over the long term. In this way, the RSC will facilitate coordination between the GEF
Regional Project and other efforts which, collectively, constitute the larger, sustained Program of
Actions in support of Conservation and Sustainable Use of the MBRS.
Program Coordination Unit. The PCU will coordinate day-to-day implementation of the Program
among each and all components. It will be responsible for contracting and logistical support of re-
spective component implementing entities and consultants, procurement of Program-related
equipment and supplies and overall planning, monitoring and evaluation of Program activities and
quality control of Program execution. In addition, the PCU will also be responsible for the estab-
lishment and maintenance of the MBRS Environmental Information System (EIS), including its
meta-database and webpage. CCAD and the RSC will delegate administrative authority to the
PCU to directly manage financial resources provided under the GEF grant. However, the PCU will
be accountable to CCAD, which will have ultimate responsibility for Project implementation and
which will be directly accountable to the four participating countries and to the Bank/GEF in
complying with the Grant Agreement for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Meso-
american Barrier Reef System Project. The PCU will consist of the following staff:
Director
Accountant/Finance Officer
4 Costs of consultants have been budgeted for under the respective components.
5 The Executive Director of the CCAD also acts as the Director General of the General Environmental Directorate (Dirección
General de Medio Ambiente, DGMA) of the Secretariat of Central American Integration (Sistema de Integración Cen-
troamericana, SICA), headquartered in El Salvador.

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Procurement Officer
Information Management Specialist
Environmental Monitoring Specialist
Natural Resources Management Specialist
Sociologist
Administrative Assistant
Driver/Office Assistant
Technical Advisory Committee. The TAC will be responsible for advising the PCU on technical
matters which may arise during the implementation of the Program. It will be composed of inter-
nationally-recognized experts in the fields relevant to MBRS Program objectives. Members will
provide technical input for the design and review of annual work programs and serve as informa-
tion gateways to state of the art management, good practice, and professional networks in the areas
of MPA management, sustainable coastal tourism, regional fisheries management, coral reef eco-
system monitoring and EIS, and environmental education and outreach. The Technical Advisory
Committee will also serve as an "honest-broker" to the PCU with respect to resolution of technical
issues under the Project that may be particularly contentious. The TAC will be consulted on an as
needed basis by the PCU, and will convene through an electronic forum to provide timely input to
the deliberations of the RSC in the review of annual workplans.
National Barrier Reef Commitees. The National Barrier Reef Committees will be multi-
sectoral in nature and will be made up of representatives of Government Institutions, local
Government, non-governmental organizations, sectoral groups (such as fishing and tour-
ism), academic institutions, indigenous groups living in the area of influence of the MBRS
Project, and by other representatives that may be deemed necessary by the respective
MBRS country. Among their tasks and responsibilities will be to: (i) assist their respec-
tive National Coordinators in defining policies for the national implementation of activi-
ties by the MBRS Project; .(ii) assist the National Coordinator in preparing National An-
nual Reports of MBRS Project activities in the respective countries; (iii) participate in ad-
hoc committees that may be formed to evaluate and pre-select consultants (individuals or
firms) that may be contracted by the MBRS Project to implement activities at the national
level; (iv) identify representative to participate in the sessions of the Technical Working
Groups (TWGs), in accordance with their technical expertise; (v) provide technical ad-
vice, via the National Coordinator, to the Project Coordinating Unit (PCU); and (vi) col-
laborate to the extent possible, with Officers of the PCU, consultants or groups of consult-
ants, who may visit the country on official business for the MBRS Project (see Project
Implementation Manual for further detail).
Regional Technical Working Groups. Regional Technical Working Groups (TWG) will be estab-
lished to support each of the Program's four components. Separate TWGs will be established for
sub-components dealing with fisheries and with tourism under the Sustainable Use Component,
and with ecosystem monitoring and environmental information systems under Component 2. The
TWGs will include two technical representatives from each National Barrier Reef Committee ap-
propriately selected based on their affiliation with the technical subject area, preferably one repre-
sentative from a government institution and one representative from a non-governmental or re-
source user organization. TWG composition will be complemented by consultants on an "as
needed" basis. Component specific tasks for each TWG would include:

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Page 16 of 18
TWG on Marine Protected Areas will be responsible for: (a) participating in and coordinating
development of a methodology for establishment of a baseline and monitoring program for
MBRS-supported MPAs, (b) promoting the use of this methodology in other non-participating
MPAs, (c) reviewing and commenting on MPA management and operational plans, (d) pro-
moting needed policy change/formulation identified in MPA specific management plans
through their respective governments to ensure future sustainability of the protected area sys-
tem, and (e) reviewing training course content and lists of participants to ensure sub-
component objectives are achieved.
TWG on Environmental Monitoring and Information System
o The sub-group for the environmental information system sub-component will be responsi-
ble for: (a) developing data-sharing agreements and other procedures required to ensure
the successful establishment and operation of the EIS, (b) coordinating and integrating na-
tional node agencies' efforts, and (c) promoting development of additional nodes and the
growth and broader use of the EIS.6
o The sub-group on the environmental monitoring sub-component will be responsible for
coordinating and implementing the monitoring program. Specifically, it will be responsi-
ble for: (a) reviewing and commenting on the draft baseline assessment document, (b) ad-
vising on the selection of sites and design of the monitoring program, (c) advising on the
ancillary studies in support of the monitoring program.
TWG on Sustainable Use of the MBRS
o The sub-group on sustainable fisheries will be responsible for: (a) coordinating and par-
ticipating in development of a methodology for establishment of a data baseline and moni-
toring program for fish aggregation sites; (b) participating in the drafting, promotion, and
adoption of a regional policy to conserve and manage the fishery resources at these sites;
(c) participating in the design and adoption of a standardized fisheries data collection sys-
tem; (d) introducing measures to harmonize policies regulating the exploitation of shared
stocks (e.g., through agreement on quotas, closed seasons, fishery no-take zones), and pro-
tection of threatened and endangered species; and (e) coordination of training and activi-
ties.
o The sub-group on sustainable coastal and marine tourism will be responsible for: (a) coor-
dinating and participating in the regional cooperative action forum, (b) monitoring the im-
plementation and follow-up of agreed actions stemming from forum meetings, and (c) co-
ordinating and participating in the development and promotion of the regional environ-
mental certification program.
TWG on Public Awareness and Environmental Education will be responsible for: (a) facilitat-
ing the identification and accessing of data and information in support of the component, (b)
providing input to, reviewing and commenting on the public awareness strategy, (c) promoting
the mass media campaign through available national channels, and (d) reviewing and com-
menting on educational materials in support of the formal and informal educational sub-
component.
6 In addition to representation from the National Coral Reef Committees, where representatives are not from the participating
national node agency, the latter will also participate in the EIS sub group.

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Annex 2
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26.
Supporting all of the TWGs will be a separate "Policy Working Group" composed of experts
in environmental law and natural resources management policy from the region. The role of
the Policy Working Group will be to assist the TWGs in the identification of priority policy
objectives and actions required to harmonize national frameworks governing the use of MBRS
resources in each country with agreed regional frameworks, e.g., for fisheries, water quality,
coastal tourism development, EIA and establishment of protected areas. The Policy Working
Group will liaise closely with CCAD and its legal office to ensure that policy objectives under
the MBRS are raised to the highest levels for consideration within the System for Central
American Integration (SICA), and to establish performance benchmarks for policy harmoniza-
tion during the near, medium and long term. These benchmarks will form the basis for the de-
sign of policy actions during Phases 2 and 3 of the Program. Complementing this, a scenario
analysis of different economic policies, development schemes and demographic trends in the
sub-region will be prepared in PY2 to create a strategic context for design of the longer term
MBRS Program and to identify the priority environmental policies and investments to be sup-
ported in subsequent phases of the Program.
27.
After the first year, TWGs will meet annually at the end of each calendar year, scheduled to
coincide with the RSC's meeting, in order to assess program progress related to each group's
technical interest area and provide input to the annual planning process for the ensuing year's
activities. Meetings of the TWGs will be structured such that cross-fertilization between the
Policy Working Group and the TWGs is maximized. This will ensure that actions included in
the Annual Work Plans are closely linked to specific policy objectives. These groups will also
communicate on a continuous basis via Internet, telephone, fax and/or informally during train-
ing events and seminars throughout the year to coordinate their respective National Commit-
tee's support for regional Program implementation.
Component Execution Entities. The PCU, with RSC approval and consistent with Bank procure-
ment policies and guidelines, will select a series of qualified national and international and non-
governmental organizations and consultants to carry out proposed Program activities. Selection of
these entities will be based on their unique geographic position in proximity to Program outreach
areas and/or technical areas of expertise to implement such activities under a competitive process.
The PCU will sign and manage cooperative agreements and/or contracts with these entities and
supervise their execution. Specific activities to be carried out by these entities are described under
the respective Program components and terms of the MBRS Program Implementation Manual
(PIM).
PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION
28.
Much of PY1 will be devoted to establishing the necessary institutional arrangements to en-
sure efficient Program implementation. Facilitated by the Project Implementation Manual
(PIM), these arrangements include: (a) staffing and equipping the PCU; and (b) forming the
Program's RSC, TAC and TWGs. A major milestone for the PCU will be to prepare an in-
terim work plan to be submitted to the RSC at the mid-point of PY1. Prior to that, the PCU
Coordinator and staff will be working under previously prepared TORs submitted and ap-
proved by the RSC as part of the PIM. Much of the remainder of PY1 will be devoted to plan-
ning and design of specific components and their respective activities and completing con-
tracting arrangements with the various executing entities.
29.
Under the MPA component, following the establishment of the TWG, MPA baseline assess-
ments will be phased in over the first three Program years beginning with an initial six as-
sessments proposed for PY1. These will "drive" the schedule of the subsequent steps of plan

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Annex 2
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development and implementation, which have been sequenced over PY2 - PY4. MPA moni-
toring activities will commence approximately one year after the completion of the baseline
and continued to the end of the Program's first phase. Training activities will begin in PY1 but
will be mostly concentrated in PY2 and PY3.
30.
Under the Regional EIS component, the design of the EIS, establishment of national data
nodes, and purchase of equipment are projected for PY1. These activities will be followed by
the establishment of the meta-database and production of the atlas in PY2 and PY4, respec-
tively. Under the environmental monitoring sub-component, the completion of the initial as-
sessment of baseline conditions and monitoring program design are scheduled for the end of
PY1. Equipment purchase and deployment and the initiation of field monitoring will com-
mence in PY 2.
31.
Under the Sustainable Fisheries Management sub-component, the initial assessment of aggre-
gations of fish populations is projected for the end of PY1, followed by a 3 year monitoring
program beginning in PY 2 and continuing through PY4. The design and purchase of equip-
ment related to the fishery data management system will also be completed in PY1 though
training will not commence until PY2. Most of the remaining activities under this sub-
component are scheduled to commence in PY2 and some will continue until the end of the
Program's first phase.
32.
Under the Tourism sub-component, the initiation of the action forum and the certification pro-
gram activities will commence in PY1 and continue through the life of the first phase. The
publication of the exemplary practices catalogue and support for the exemplary practices study
tour is scheduled for PY2 and PY3, respectively.
33.
Finally, under the Public Awareness and Environmental Education component, the establish-
ment of the clearing house, design of the public awareness campaign, and publication of mate-
rials are projected for PY1. The implementation of the campaign, distribution of materials, and
most of the workshops and conferences are scheduled for PY2-PY5.

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Annex 3
Page 1 of 173
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 3
Estimated Project Costs
Local
Foreign
Total
Project Cost By Component
US$million
US$million
US$million
1. Marine Protected Areas
2.1
2.5
4.6
2. Regional Environmental Information System (EIS)
1.6
2.5
4.1
3. Promotion of Sustainable Use of the MBRS
0.8
1.0
1.8
4. Public Awareness and Environmental Education
0.5
0.9
1.4
5. Regional Coordination and Project Management
0.8
1.4
2.2
1
1
Total Baseline Cost
5.8
8.3
14.1
Physical Contingencies
0.0
0.2
0.2
Price Contingencies
0.4
0.5
0.9
Total Project Costs
6.2
9.0
15.2
Total Financing Required
6.2
9.0
15.2
Local
Foreign
Total
Project Cost By Category
US$million
US$million
US$million
Goods
0.2
2.2
2.4
Works
0.2
0.2
0.4
Services
2.0
3.0
5.0
Training
1.5
1.0
2.5
Recurrent Costs
1.9
1.9
3.8
Contingencies
0.4
0.7
1.1
Total Project Costs
6.2
9.0
15.2
1

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Annex 4
Page 1 of 14
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 4
Incremental Costs and Global Environmental Benefits
Overview
1.
The global objectives of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System Project are to enhance protection
of ecologically unique and vulnerable marine ecosystems of the second longest barrier reef in the
world and to assist the countries of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras to strengthen and
coordinate national policies, regulations, and institutional arrangements for marine ecosystem
conservation and sustainable use of this global public good. The Project's specific objectives are
to: (a) strengthen existing and create new marine protected areas; (b) develop and implement a
standardized data management system of ecosystem monitoring and facilitate the dissemination
of its outputs throughout the region; (c) promote measures that will serve to reduce non-
sustainable patterns of economic exploitation of the MBRS, focusing initially on the fisheries and
tourism sectors; (d) increase local and national capacity for environmental management through
education, information sharing and training; and (e) facilitate the strengthening and coordinating
of national policies, regulations, and institutional arrangements for marine ecosystem conserva-
tion and sustainable use.
2.
The GEF Alternative intends to achieve these objectives at a total incremental cost of US$11.0
million through the implementation of components entailing improved planning, management,
and monitoring of marine protected areas; strengthening technical capacity of protected areas
staff; creation and implementation of a distributed, Web-based environmental information sys-
tem; establishment of a synoptic monitoring system; promotion of sustainable tourism and sus-
tainable fisheries management in coastal communities; development of an environmental aware-
ness campaign; support for formal and informal education; and Project management.
Context: Threats and Root Causes
3.
Coral reefs support the most diverse forms of life on earth. The framework built by corals and
algae supports a fantastic variety of flora and fauna, including invertebrates, such as hard and soft
corals, mollusks, sponges, anemones, sea whips, tube worms, shrimps, crabs, lobsters, clams,
starfish, sea urchins and tunicates. Megafauna inhabiting this underwater rain forest include over
4000 species of fish, marine reptiles, and an array of marine mammals that migrate through their
waters. The MBRS, extending from Mexico to Honduras in the Western Caribbean, is the second
longest barrier reef in the world, serving as a habitat for tremendous marine biodiversity. The
MBRS is unique in the Western Hemisphere on account of its size, its array of reef types, and the
luxuriance of corals that it contains. Unusual geophysical features include the complex maze of
patch reefs and faroes in a relatively deep shelf lagoon; the great diversity of reef types in a small
geographical area; and the large offshore mangrove cays that have a marine origin. In southern
Belize, the mangrove cays of Port Honduras-Payne Creek and the Sarstoon-Temash system along
the border with Guatemala constitute the largest stand of mangroves in all of Belize and the Car-
ibbean coast of Guatemala. They provide nutrients and critical habitat in the juvenile stages for
much of the invertebrate and vertebrate fauna that inhabit the southern portion of the MBRS in
the Gulf of Honduras. The MBRS is also unique in featuring three oceanic atolls, of which
Glovers Atoll is considered to be the best example of an atoll in the Caribbean basin.

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4.
Associated with the MBRS ecosystem are extensive areas of relatively pristine coastal wetlands,
lagoons, seagrass beds and mangrove forests that provide critical habitat for a number of threat-
ened species and many species of birds. The species diversity of plants within the Glovers Atoll
alone has been found to be higher, by a factor of two, than that of other Caribbean and Gulf of
Mexico reef island groups. The MBRS stabilizes and protects coastal landscapes, maintains
coastal water quality, sustains species of commercial importance, serving as breeding and feeding
grounds for fish and invertebrates, and offers employment alternatives and incomes to approxi-
mately one million people living in coastal zones facing the reefs. In view of its exceptional char-
acter, a number of sites in the MBRS have been designated as World Heritage sites. Five of these
lie within the Belize Barrier Reef.
5.
Despite its renown as an important habitat for coastal and marine biodiversity, the MBRS is under
severe threat. Particular threatened species include: N. American manatee; Loggerhead Turtle;
Green Turtle; Hawksbill Turtle; Olive Ridley Turtle; black corals; queen conch; and spotted spiny
lobster and Nassau Grouper in parts of their range. A Threat and Root Cause Analysis (TRCA)
carried out during Project preparation indicated that the principal threats to the MBRS include:
Coastal/Island Development and Unsustainable Tourism, which includes urban, hotel and resort de-
velopment and related infrastructure, together with all the direct and indirect impacts that these bring
to bear on the MBRS (e.g., pollution/contamination, nutrification, sedimentation, physical reef dam-
age, impacts to estuary and lagoons and mangrove destruction, beach erosion, habitat change, etc.).
Box 1. Existing Threats and Root Causes:
Coastal/Island Development and Unsustainable Tourism
The City of Chetumal discharges 200 cubic meters of untreated sewage into Chetumal Bay each day.
Volumes of raw or poorly treated sewage of similar or greater magnitude are discharged from urban cen-
ters directly into coastal waters of the MBRS coast from Belize City, Puerto Cortes, Tela, La Ceiba and
Trujillo. Excess nutrients can result in blue-green algal blooms that smother coral reefs. Repeated fish
kills in the vicinity of Belize City are attributed to effluent from an industrial galvanizing plant. Similarly,
ever-increasing cruise ship and live aboard tourism, which is predicted to add an additional 20 ships and
2,000,000 passengers to the Caribbean in the year 2000, can likewise produce serious impacts if not
regulated. Pulses of high numbers of tourists can overtax public services, reduce local food stocks, and
generate vast amounts of solid and liquid wastes that must be accommodated by municipalities in the
MBRS. If these ships visit offshore island and coral reef sites, waste management problems may be-
come acute, and inexperienced and/or unsupervised divers and snorkelers may lead to coral breakage,
predation and uncontrolled fishing.
The intermediate causes of threats from inappropriate coastal development and unsustainable tourism
are linked primarily to the inability, or lack of will, to enforce compliance of existing laws and regulations
regarding environmental impact assessment and land-use zoning. In some cases, regulations and land-
use plans are non-existent. There is a notable lack of land-use/integrated coastal management plans
and zoning related to basic environmental and engineering principles. Another intermediate cause is
failure to control settlement and inappropriate land use in marginal areas not environmentally fit for habi-
tation, especially national and municipal properties, including mangroves, beaches, wetlands and near
lagoons. Behind these intermediate causes stands a series of structural root causes, including a lack of
awareness of the impacts of development actions in the coastal environment at all levels, from local re-
source users up to national government policy makers. Likewise, weak land tenure policies favor large
landowners and restrict access of the poor to land needed, in most cases, for subsistence agriculture.
This is further complicated by poverty in rural areas due to lack of employment opportunities, the failing
natural resource base, and lack of basic social services. As these conditions worsen, the rural poor set
out in search of other opportunities, with an increasing number heading to coastal areas.
Inappropriate Inland Resource/Land Use and Industrial Development, encompassing a broad range
of agricultural, urban and industrial development in inland watersheds that drain into coastal areas;

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contamination of wetlands, lagoons and estuaries, whether directly or indirectly impacting the MBRS
(e.g., sedimentation, pollution/contamination, nutrification, habitat and species/abundance changes,
mass kills of organisms, etc.).
Box 2. Existing Threats and Root Causes:
Inappropriate Inland Resource/Land Use and Industrial Development
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) represent the two greatest pollutant
loads entering the Wider Caribbean Region and MBRS, with TSS loads from rivers being one order of
magnitude higher than loads from industrial and urban/domestic sources discharged directly into coastal
waters. It is estimated that approximately 90 percent of all pesticides applied in the region do not reach
their targeted species, much of this lost to runoff into streams and eventually manifested in marine biota in
coastal waters. Likewise, approximately 2,500 gallons of liquid wastes are discharged from sugar refining
and rum distilling operations on the New River in Belize, contributing large organic loads and spent lubri-
cants to the Chetumal Bay. Of the 380 industries registered in the Sula Valley, the most industrialized area
adjacent to the MBRS and drained primarily by the Río Chamelecón, 150 are reported to have environmen-
tally problematic effluents.
The intermediate and root causes of the threats associated with inappropriate resources and land use and
industrial development in areas inland from the coasts can be distributed into two principal groups: (a) lack
of land-use and watershed management plans to guide environmentally-sound development, compounded
by limited regulations and local capacity to assess environmental impacts of development projects, espe-
cially industrial enterprises and transport infrastructure, and subsidies favoring industrial development with-
out investments in environmental protection; and (b) lack of secure access to land, basic human services
and technical assistance to facilitate practice of appropriate land and resource-use techniques, leaving the
rural poor to migrate to upland watersheds and other areas incapable of supporting agricultural uses.
Overfishing and Aquaculture Development, including industrial, artisanal, subsistence and recrea-
tional fishing, and aquaculture in coastal areas and the real and potential impacts of species and abun-
dance change, local overfishing of selected species (e.g., grouper, jack, mackerel, snapper and snook);
and poaching of selected species (e.g., manatee and sea turtles); habitat change/symbiosis imbalances;
reduced subsistence and revenues from fisheries.

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Box 3. Existing Threats and Root Causes: Overfishing and Aquaculture Development
Based on the results of FAO's 1994 Survey of the Wider Caribbean, 70 percent of the pelagic stocks and 60
percent of the demersal stocks were considered over-exploited. The over-dimensioned fishing fleets, especially
in Honduras where the number of industrial ships was 360 in 1996, places great fishing pressure on the primary
commercial species, especially as the ships now use more advanced navigation and fish-finding equipment and
some pull as many as four trawling nets.1 Species under the greatest pressure are lobster, conch, shrimp and
certain species of finfish (esp. grouper and large grazers), for which overall harvests have been reduced by 60-
75 percent based on catch-per-unit-effort since 1979 in Honduras and Belize, with similar reductions noted in
the rest of the MBRS. Utilization of illegal equipment and fishing methods, including use of SCUBA for lobster
and conch fishing, has led to excessive local depredation and reduction in stocks of key commercial species.
Intermediate causes of the threats associated with overfishing can be found in large part in the lack of compli-
ance with existing national fisheries regulations and standards upheld in international conventions and treaties.
This can be attributed in part to lack of awareness of the impacts of overfishing and of the content of the law by
many artisanal fishers, and the zeal to increase catch and revenue of over-dimensioned industrial fleets. The
insufficient number and capability of government staff responsible for enforcement of fisheries regulations is
another intermediate cause. Furthermore, lack of valid data concerning abundance, reproduction habits, and
landings/harvest of species of fishes, mollusks and crustaceans, especially those under pressure, restricts de-
velopment of management plans and complicates enforcement of regulations. Regarding inappropriate aquacul-
ture, intermediate causes are primarily those resulting in poor siting, construction and operation of ponds, due to
the lack of capacity of local professionals to execute EIAs and recommend appropriate mitigating measures.
Likewise, there have been few regulations promulgated to ensure environmentally sound operation of aquacul-
ture operations. For all threats associated with overfishing and inappropriate aquaculture, the most important
root cause is the lack of integrated fisheries policies and management plans at the national level, and the MBRS
region as a whole.
Inappropriate Port, Shipping and Navigation Practices, including intentional and accidental con-
tamination of waters, reefs and beaches, physical reef damage, impacts to aquatic species and fisher-
ies (including mass kills), degradation of the tourism value of reefs and related coastal environments,
and related topics.
Box 4. Existing Threats and Root Causes:
Inappropriate Port, Shipping and Navigation Practices
More than 90 percent of commerce in the region is transported by oceangoing ships, making ports and navi-
gation of high economic development value, but also a focal point for real and potential threats to the ecologi-
cal health of the MBRS. Oil terminals in the area involve the transport of millions of gallons of petroleum and
derivatives through the MBRS region each month. Port and jetty construction and dredging associated with
channel and harbor maintenance results in increased sedimentation in seagrass beds and nearby coral reefs,
stressing and potentially smothering them. Redeposition of sediments may result in erosion of beaches and
accretion in navigation channels, estuaries and coastal lagoons, and may change flows in local currents and
flushing of bays and estuaries. Changes in coastal morphology may reduce defenses against storms and ac-
tually instigate more damage from storm surge and flooding.
Inappropriate waste management practices on ships and in ports can result in nutrification and/or chemical
contamination of estuaries, bays, wetlands, reefs and sea-grass beds. Most ports have limited facilities to re-
ceive solid and liquid wastes from ships, inducing many to dump their wastes directly into the sea. Wastes
dumped in inadequate landfills may make their way back to the coastal waters and beaches. Such spills can
cause fish kills as well as sublethal impacts. As solid and liquid wastes float ashore, they foul beaches, repre-
sent human health hazards and reduce aesthetics important to the tourism industry.
Intermediate causes of threats include lack of awareness of the impacts of ports, deficient regulations and
limited local capacity to assess environmental impacts of port projects. This is compounded by the lack of
baseline information on coastal resources and currents. The lack of overall integrated coastal and port-
specific management plans, contingency plans for rapid responses to shipping emergencies and spills and
1 The Honduras fleet consists of 128 shrimp trawlers, 181 lobster boats, 14 conch fishing boats and 37 finfish boats.

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equipment to handle them also poses threats to both shipping and the environment. The lack of waste man-
agement facilities in ports relegates ships to disposal at sea. Root causes include the lack of institutional ca-
pacity to properly manage port operations and shipping, as authority is distributed among various agencies
and too little investment provided to maintain and/or upgrade port facilities and train port personnel.
Natural Oceanographic and Climato-Meteorological Phenomena, with regard to the influence of cur-
rents and winds, El Niño/La Niña events, increased frequency and amplitude of tropical storms,
global warming, earthquakes and tsunamis, and their potential cumulative effect. The devastation at-
tributed to Hurricane Mitch, following massive bleaching of coral reefs associated with an intense El
Niño episode in the summer of 1998, is one such example. Bleaching affected all reefs in Belize, par-
ticularly in the lagoon area, where up to 90 percent mortality was detected.
Box 5. Existing Threats: Natural Oceanographic and Climato-Meteorological Phenomena
Oceanographic and climato-meteorological features are permanent phenomena in nature, however their in-
creased frequency and intensity, now thought to be associated with climate change, represent serious threats
to both human and biological coastal communities. Settlements and development infrastructure are exposed
to greater risk as a result of increased storm damage and flooding. More frequent and sustained increases in
sea surface temperatures like those associated with recent El Niño events, also puts coral reefs--already
near or at their critical thermal maxima--at much greater risk. The MBRS's increasing exposure to anthropo-
genic stress may lower the resilience of its communities to such "natural disturbance." Bleaching, reduced
calcification rates and increased vulnerability to diseases among corals are all potential outcomes of major
shifts in the periodicity and amplitude of atmospheric and oceanographic phenomena. Continuous monitoring
of these phenomena and of physical and biological indicators of coral reef health, with be essential to assess-
ing the long-term vulnerability of the MBRS to system-wide changes in oceanographic and atmospheric condi-
tions that exceed historic levels of variation in these states.
6.
The TRCA indicated that two transboundary subregions, the Chetumal Bay ­ in the border region
of Mexico and Belize ­ and the Gulf of Honduras ­ shared by Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras ­
are the principal foci of the majority of known and/or potential threats and their impacts to the
ecological health of the MBRS, with most of the intermediate and root causes of the threats oc-
curring therein. Unfortunately, not enough is known about the ecology of the reefs nor their re-
covery potential to adequately assess the long-term impact of these forms of stress on the viability
of the ecosystem nor the costs to human populations of the potential losses associated with them.
7.
The broad development goals of the four participating countries focus on economic growth, im-
proving the effectiveness of the public sector, poverty alleviation and improved natural resource
management. The Project supports these goals through promoting sustainable use of natural re-
sources and generation of sustained benefit flows from coastal and marine resources to poor, rural
communities, as well as training of government officials in improved methods for planning and
management of resources.
Baseline Scenario
8.
Scope. On June 5, 1997, the Presidents of Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras and the Prime Min-
ister of Belize signed the "Declaration of Tulum" in which they acknowledged the global biologi-
cal, economic and cultural importance of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef in relation to the re-
gion's future, the seriousness of the threats facing this unique system, and the urgent need to initi-
ate actions to counter these threats. The four nations' leaders committed themselves to initiate a
process of active collaboration between the four countries to prepare and implement an Action
Plan for the conservation of the MBRS.

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9.
In June 1997, the Central American Commission on Environment and Development (CCAD),
representing the three Central American countries bordering the MBRS, and which includes Mex-
ico as an observer, approached the World Bank requesting support for the design of strategies and
projects at the regional and national levels for conservation and sustainable use of the MBRS.
With financial support from the Global Environment Facility and technical support from the
World Bank, IUCN, and WWF, the four countries drafted an Action Plan for the management of
the MBRS. The Action Plan includes the following major elements: (a) integrated land use plan-
ning; (b) research/monitoring, education and information dissemination; (c) establishment of ma-
rine protected areas; (d) promotion of sustainable tourism efforts; (e) maintenance of water qual-
ity and pollution prevention; (f) capacity building: institutional strengthening, participatory man-
agement and financial sustainability; (g) harmonization and implementation of robust legal
frameworks; (h) fulfillment of international agreements; and (i) regional coordination in the im-
plementation of the Action Plan. The Action Plan provides the basis for a comprehensive pro-
gram of regional and national level activities aimed at safeguarding the integrity and productivity
of the MBRS and ensuring the social and environmental sustainability of benefits derived from it
now and in the future.
10.
In line with the 1997 Action Plan, concerns over increasing threats to biodiversity in particular
have prompted the four participating governments to carry out work on National Biodiversity and
Actions Plans (BSAPs) with assistance from UNDP/GEF. These BSAPs have identified chal-
lenges to the conservation and wise use of biological resources, including the effectiveness of
laws and institutions. Priority areas for work include identification of unsustainable natural re-
source use and the impacts of such practices on national and regional ecosystems and species
threatened with extinction. Solutions to address such problems include ­ among others ­ more ef-
fective enforcement of existing laws and regulations, strengthening of existing protected areas
and creation of new protected areas where necessary and resources permit, improved land man-
agement and broader participation of responsible governmental and non-governmental organiza-
tions in natural resource management.
11.
Accomplishing the above-mentioned development priorities and in particular those related to the
Action Plan in the four participating countries will require upgraded capacity and quality of gov-
ernment institutions addressing coastal and marine resource management, policy harmonization,
and programs targeted towards sustainable income generation, particularly for the rural poor. The
following discussion of the Baseline Scenario activities is divided as follows: (a) activities fi-
nanced strictly by government resources; (b) activities financed by multilateral institutions2; (c)
activities financed by bilateral donors; and (d) activities financed by NGOs.
12.
Nationally financed activities. Activities at the national level in the four participating countries
relating to policing of coastal and marine resources; enforcement of environmental laws; promul-
gation of policies regarding fisheries laws and water quality; physical sampling and monitoring of
water quality related to nutrient loads and coastal and marine pollution; as well as participation in
regional working groups relating to coral reef monitoring, fisheries management (e.g.,
CARICOM Fisheries Resource Assessment and Management Program), or other public sector ac-
tivities directly related to coastal and marine resources management in the MBRS region total ap-
proximately US$4.5 million over the next five years, including: Government of Mexico, US$1.5
2. Activities financed by the Global Environmental Facility are mentioned in this analysis to indicate the full extent of activities
underway in the region; nonetheless, they are not considered as part of financing of the Baseline Scenario. Furthermore, the four
participating countries are in the final stages of Enabling Activities for Biodiversity with the support from the Global Environ-
ment Facility and the United Nations Development Programme. Under the Baseline Scenario, it is expected that the four coun-
tries will complete national Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans, assessing the status of biological resources and identifying
options for managing important biodiversity.

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million; Government of Belize, US$1.5 million; Government of Guatemala, US$0.5 million; and
Government of Honduras, US$1.0 million.
13.
Internationally financed activities: Regional. GEF-financed activities in the four participating
countries are extensive. With assistance from the Global Environment Facility, the United Na-
tions Development Programme and the United Nations Environment Programme, and bilateral
donors, the Central American Commission on Environment and Development is executing the re-
gional program to consolidate the MBC. Additionally, the Inter-American Development Bank has
begun discussions with the Governments of Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras with respect to a
project to control transboundary pollution in the Gulf of Honduras.
14.
Internationally financed activities: Mexico. A project to conserve the Mesoamerican Biological
Corridor in Mexico has recently been approved by the Bank's Board. The aim of the Project is
to address terrestrial biodiversity concerns and to forge critical links between terrestrial and ma-
rine corridors through the protection of biological corridors linking natural habitats, increase en-
vironmental education and awareness, and improve land use in watersheds draining into the Car-
ibbean Sea. One of the proposed corridors links Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in Chiapas with
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a priority protected area along the coast of Quintana Roo.
15.
Internationally financed activities: Honduras. The Mexico MBC project is complemented by a
national initiative in Honduras to conserve biodiversity in protected areas. The World
Bank/UNDP/GEF/Government of Honduras: Biodiversity in Priority Areas Project is working to
protect the integrity of natural systems in priority protected areas; along Honduras' north coast
and southernmost region of the MBRS, the project is supporting protected areas management in
four protected areas: Punta Sal, Punta Izopo, Cuero y Salado, and Pico Bonito.
16.
The Government of Honduras/Inter-American Development Bank Bay Islands Project aims to
promote sustainable development in the Bay Islands of Honduras, a part of the MBRS, through
strengthening the capacity of local institutions responsible for natural resources management, es-
tablishing a large Marine Protected Area surrounding the Bay Islands, improving environmental
quality through waste management and water quality monitoring, and supporting environmental
education and outreach. The estimated contribution to the Baseline Scenario for project activities
totals US$24 million.
17.
Baseline activities within the Government of Honduras/World Bank Social Investment Fund and
the Government of Honduras/Inter-American Development Bank Secondary Cities Project will
promote improved resource management, improved access to social services (e.g., water and sani-
tation) and income generation for the poor in secondary cities along the Caribbean coast of Hon-
duras (e.g., La Ceiba, Tela, Trujillo). As part of significantly larger projects, the estimated contri-
bution to the Baseline Scenario for activities in the above-mentioned areas totals US$7.5 million.
18.
The proposed Government of Honduras/World Bank Sustainable Tourism Project is designed to
help Honduras lay the foundation for sustainable growth in the tourism sector over the next three
years by: (a) developing a national strategy for sustainable tourism along the North Coast, which
includes zoning and land use planning for development of sub-regional tourism development
plans; (b) strengthening capacity in coastal municipalities to discharge their responsibilities in the
area of environmental assessment and planning and managing the development of their coastal
and marine resources for tourism and other economic activities; (c) designing and delivering
training programs in good practice and international codes of conduct in the tourism industry, tai-
lored to the needs of NGOs, small business enterprises and commercial tourism operators, as well
as developing a voluntary environmental rating and certification program for private sector busi-
nesses, tourism destinations and private nature reserves; and (d) promoting and testing innovative

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public-private partnerships in line with principles of environmentally and socially sustainable
tourism in coastal communities throughout the project area. The latter will encourage the partici-
pation of indigenous and other economically disadvantaged groups as key beneficiaries under the
project. The estimated contribution to the Baseline Scenario for project activities totals US$4.0
million.
19.
Internationally financed activities: Belize. In Belize, the second phase of the Government of Be-
lize/UNDP/GEF Conservation of the Belize Barrier Reef Complex Project is focusing on national
priorities, including improving management of fisheries, marine environment and tourism sectors
through zoning and land use planning; consolidation of designated Marine Protected Areas; de-
velopment of environmental policies; establishment of environmental monitoring systems; pro-
motion of sustainable tourism and introduction of cost recovery mechanisms for marine conserva-
tion and management. While there are synergies between the national effort and the proposed
MBRS Regional Project, the latter will focus almost exclusively on transboundary issues. Three
mid-sized projects are serving to support terrestrial biodiversity conservation in the northern, cen-
tral, and southern portions of Belize. One of these, involving the protected area at Sarstoon-
Temash, will provide the basis for linking improved natural resource management in agricultural
productive activities with conservation efforts by indigenous communities. The MSP focus on
these terrestrial habitats will provide the opportunity to improve management of the coastal inter-
face in this highly sensitive transboundary area. Finally, several communities have received
grants through the UNDP/GEF Small Grants program to protect coastal and marine resources
(e.g., Laughing Bird Caye National Park Project; Slackchwe Habitat Enhancement Project).
20.
The Government of Belize/Inter-American Development Bank Tourism Development Project
aims to increase employment opportunities, foreign exchange earnings, and government revenues
in a manner that is environmentally and culturally sustainable. The project will develop and con-
serve major Mayan archaeological sites; improve access to key tourist areas; protect the barrier
reef by seeking solutions to growing problems with water supply and sewage treatment on Caye
Caulker; increase the quantity and quality of basic tourism services; and improve the effective-
ness of key institutions in the tourism sector through institutional strengthening. The estimated
contribution to the Baseline Scenario for project activities totals US$1.8 million.
21.
Additional national-level activities in the region financed with support from international finan-
cial institutions or bilateral assistance include:
USAID-financed activities supporting community-based management of coastal and marine resources
and capacity building of local NGOs include the Mexico Coastal Program in Quintana Roo (US$2.0
million) and the Regional Environment Program for Central America: PROARCA/COSTAS, imple-
mented with support from WWF, The Nature Conservancy, and the University of Rhode Island Cen-
ter for Coastal Resources (US$3.5 million). Within the MBRS region, the latter supports capacity
building and empowerment of local communities in the development of strategies for the sustainable
use of coastal resources focusing on pilot areas in Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Smaller bilateral initiatives include: EU financing of a CZM plan in Belize, including establishment
of a Coastal Advisory Committee (US$0.7 million); sustainable fisheries development in the Carib-
bean Basin, supported by the CARICOM nations, through the Caribbean Fisheries Resource Assess-
ment and Management Project (CFRAMP) (US$5.0 million).
22.
Activities financed by international NGOs include the WWF Mesoamerican Reef System Ecore-
gion Project. As part of its Global 200 Ecoregions Campaign, WWF is in the process of launching
a new effort for the Mesoamerican Caribbean Reef EcoRegion, which plans to focus on a biologi-
cal assessment of the broader marine ecosystem and to determine priority interventions for treat-

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ing root causes of resource degradation from a biodiversity conservation perspective. These ac-
tivities are being developed in close collaboration with the proposed GEF Project. WWF co-
financed activities include: mobilizing a constituency and tools for conservation at the regional
ecosystem level; mapping key habitats, ecosystems and biogeographic features of the ecoregion
to identify hotspots and priorities for conservation; protecting key sites and wildlife populations;
shaping regional development to support ecosystem conservation; and establishing long-term
conditions and strengthening human resource capacity needed to sustain conservation.
23.
There are numerous ongoing international and regional programs providing technical assistance
in coastal resources assessment, monitoring and capacity building. These include the Caribbean
Coastal Marine Productivity Programme (CARICOMP) and the UNEP-coordinated Caribbean
Environment Programme (CEP). The Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, a program of the
International Coral Reef Initiative, is operating in the Caribbean through several sub-nodes. Nas-
cent monitoring efforts along the coast of Central America have been initiated by government,
academic and NGO institutions. These could be significantly enhanced, however, by the GEF
supported Project under the monitoring and EIS component as a GCRMN sub-node for the West-
ern Caribbean. The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission/ Sub-commission for the Car-
ibbean is coordinating support to countries in the Wider Caribbean Region to ratify and adopt ac-
tions under the protocols of the Cartagena Convention and supports scientific research, training
and monitoring of oceanographic, fisheries and biological diversity parameters.
24.
Finally, the Nature Conservancy, FOCADES (the Environment Fund of Central America), RODA
(Red de Organizaciones de Derecho Ambiental, Guatemala), and IUCN's Wetlands program are
sponsoring an Ecoregional Study of Marine Biodiversity in an effort to set priorities for marine
conservation. The Wildlife Conservation Society is financing marine environmental education,
awareness, and dissemination as well as maintaining a research facility on Glovers Reef atoll in
Belize. The Canadian College Partnership Program is working with the University College of Be-
lize to develop capacity for watershed and water quality monitoring. The Mellon Foundation to-
gether with The Nature Conservancy is financing oceanographic and hydrological research to de-
termine water circulation and material dispersion in the Gulf of Honduras.
25.
Smaller, complementary initiatives which promote conservation, policy reform, public awareness
and community participation in the management of coastal and marine resources in the four
MBRS countries include activities carried out by: Amigos de Sian Ka'an (Southern Quintana Roo
Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project; Mexico); Amigos de Isla Contoy A.C. (Mexico);
Asociados Náuticos y Subacuáticos de Isla Mujeres A.C. (Mexico); communities surrounding
Bacalar Chico National Park/Marine Reserve; Belize Audubon Society with The Summit Founda-
tion (Belize); Friends of Laughing Bird Caye (Belize); FUNDAECO (Belize); Toledo Institute for
Environment and Development (Belize); La Alianza Trinacional del Golfo de Honduras (Guate-
mala); the Bay Islands Conservation Association (Honduras); Fundación Calentura Guaymoreto
(Honduras); Fundación Cuero Salado (Honduras); Fundación Parque Nacional Pico Bonito (Hon-
duras); Fundación Parque Lanatia, Punta Sal y Texigua (Honduras), and Coral Reef Fund for
Cayos Cochinos (Honduras). The total cost of activities financed by national and international
NGOs identified above is approximately US$10 million over the next five years.
26.
Costs. The cost of Baseline Scenario investments in the four participating countries totals US$63
million. Of these resources, approximately US$32.5 million is directed towards environmental
protection in coastal and marine areas; US$5.6 million for the establishment and/or strengthening
of marine protected areas; US$3.5 million for environmental information management; US$16.4
million for sustainable use activities; and US$5.0 million for environmental education and public
awareness of coastal- and marine-related issues.

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27.
Benefits. Implementation of the Baseline Scenario will result in increased environmental protec-
tion in select areas, improved wastewater treatment and concomitant improvement in water qual-
ity, introduction of safeguards in select municipalities to protect important resources from over-
development, increased capacity of public sector entities and NGOs to manage coastal and marine
resources, increased access by local communities for sustainable generation of incomes, and in-
creased awareness of threats to coastal and marine ecosystems in the four participating countries.
GEF Alternative
28.
Scope. There are many potential synergies between various national efforts identified in the Base-
line Scenario and this proposed regional effort. The GEF Alternative will build on the Baseline
Scenario specifically by: strengthening existing and creating new marine reserves in transbound-
ary areas which contain representative examples of coastal and/or marine ecosystems; developing
and implementing a regional MBRS monitoring and environmental information system involving
standardized protocols for collecting, analyzing and accessing data among the four participating
countries; identifying and disseminating international best practice in sustainable tourism and
shared fisheries management and promoting its adoption among the four countries to reduce non-
sustainable patterns of economic exploitation of environmental resources within the MBRS; in-
creasing local and national capacity for environmental management through education, informa-
tion sharing and training; and enhancing regional cooperation in the management of a regional
public good by creating an enabling environment for the harmonization of national policies and
regulations related to the management of coastal and marine resources and the institutional ar-
rangements to ensure coordination across the four countries in implementation of agreed meas-
ures for conservation and sustainable use of this transboundary marine ecosystem.
29.
With respect to the Marine Protected Areas component, site selection criteria for incremental fi-
nancing was based on the significance of the protected area with respect to contributing to MBRS
ecosystem characteristics, diversity and processes. The majority of the MPAs are located in the
two transboundary areas of the MBRS. In the transboundary areas themselves, there are several
MPAs that are separated by national boundaries and managed as separate units. Two of these bi-
national MPA complexes, situated in the Mexico-Belize and Belize-Guatemala transboundary ar-
eas respectively, will be assisted through the Project with the additional objective of promoting a
regional approach to their management. Selection of the remaining MPAs, in addition to the
aforementioned criteria, was made with the intent to ensure a spatially dispersed pattern of pro-
tected areas loosely connecting the Project's two transboundary areas.
30.
Through the Regional Environmental Information System (REIS) component, the GEF Alterna-
tive will provide the basic framework to guide the collection, processing, distribution and utiliza-
tion of data which will promote improved management of the MBRS, and supply incremental re-
sources to individuals and organizations carrying out data collection. The REIS will support a re-
liable database that can help to inform management decisions. For instance, ecological linkages
between reefs, other marine environments and coastal watersheds are mediated, partially or en-
tirely, by water flow. However, despite the importance of water currents in transporting nutrients,
pollutants, and reproductive products across ecosystem and national boundaries, there is a dearth
of data on the region's current regime and its influence on the status and processes of MBRS
reefs and other critical ecosystems. Nor is there sufficient information related to the complex pat-
terns of reproduction, larval dispersal, and recruitment of corals, fish, and other important reef
components; patterns which depend on the complex interaction of water flow and larval behavior.
These critical data needs will be supported through the MBRS Project.
31.
Furthermore, the GEF Alternative will support pilot activities, increase institutional capacity
through regional training activities, and interpret and disseminate information on status and trends

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Annex 4
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in the health of the MBRS to guide policymaking. Through greater awareness of downstream im-
pacts of development activities on the health of the MBRS, tools and mechanisms to support good
practice, and alternatives livelihood options based on sound use, the Project will help create in-
centives for stakeholders to shift toward more sustainable use of MBRS resources. The Threat
and Root Cause Analysis conducted during Project preparation indicated a lack of public aware-
ness of the significance of the MBRS and the issues that need to be addressed to ensure its sus-
tainability. A critical element to developing the political will and policies required to manage the
MBRS will be building the necessary public support to catalyze change. The GEF Alternative
will increase environmental awareness among a variety of stakeholders and promote the devel-
opment of human capacity to change practices that are detrimental to the MBRS. Finally, the
GEF Alternative will support regional coordination through a Project management structure that
includes a Regional Steering Committee made up of representatives of CCAD, the multi-
stakeholder National Barrier Reef Committees in each country and ex-officio members of donor
institutions; a Technical Advisory Group to support them; and Regional Technical Working
Groups that will design and oversee implementation of agreed interventions on the ground to pro-
tect the ecological integrity of the MBRS.
32.
Costs. The total cost of the GEF Alternative is estimated at US$78.2 million, detailed as follows:
(a) increased environmental management and protection - US$32.5 million (GEF financing:
US$0.0 million); (b) consolidation of a representative system of Marine Protected Areas through
support for planning, management and biodiversity monitoring ­ US$11.0 (GEF financing:
US$2.7 million); (c) development of a Regional Environmental Information System ­ US$7.8
million (GEF financing: US$2.8 million); (d) promotion of sustainable uses of the MBRS ­
US$18.2 million (GEF financing: US$1.7 million); (e) expansion of environmental education
programs and increased public awareness ­ US$6.6 million (GEF financing - US$1.4 million);
and (e) regional coordination and management ­ US$2.5 million (GEF financing - US$2.4 mil-
lion).
33.
Benefits. Implementation of the GEF Alternative would enhance protection of vulnerable and
unique marine ecosystems of the second longest barrier reef in the world and assist the four par-
ticipating countries to strengthen and coordinate national policies, regulations, and institutional
arrangements for marine ecosystem conservation and sustainable use. Benefits generated from
this comprehensive approach would include those classified as "national"--increased sustainabil-
ity of natural resource use, greater stability in long term revenues from enhanced natural capital,
and increased public awareness of environment and natural resource issues--as well as those
considered "global" in nature. Global benefits include the conservation of coastal and marine bio-
diversity; protection of the ecological integrity of critical marine ecosystems; a regional system of
marine/coastal protected areas which guarantees representation of all ecosystems present in the
region, as well as functionality and stability of the MBRS; and outreach to and involvement of lo-
cal communities and local governments in managing natural resources.
Incremental Costs
34.
The difference between the cost of the Baseline Scenario (US$63.0 million) and the cost of the
GEF Alternative (US$78.2 million) is estimated at US$15.2 million. This represents the incre-
mental cost for achieving global environmental benefits through developing integrated manage-
ment plans for the sustainable use of coastal and marine ecosystems and the diverse resources,
goods and services they provide; strengthening local and national capacity for environmental
management through education, information sharing and training; standardizing ecosystem moni-
toring and facilitating its execution and dissemination of results throughout the region; strength-
ening institutions and programs for maintenance of water quality and prevention of contamina-
tion, particularly in transboundary situations; and establishing transnational coordination and co-

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Annex 4
Page 12 of 14
operation mechanisms for harmonization of policies related to the conservation and sustainable
use of the MBRS. A GEF grant of US$11.0 million is proposed at this time; an additional US$4.2
million has been committed by participating governments, NGOs and local communities in sup-
port for the Project.

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Annex 4
Page 13 of 14
Incremental Cost Matrix
Component Sec-
Cost
US$
Domestic Benefit
Global Benefit
tor
Category
Million
A. Environmental
Baseline
32.5
Increased environmental protec-
Management and
tion in select areas. Improved
Protection
water quality and wastewater
treatment/sanitation in coastal
communities. Reduced water
pollution in coastal areas, allow-
ing for increased uses of coastal
and marine resources. Increased
public sector capacity to manage
natural resource base.
With GEF
32.5
Same as above.
Alternative
Incremental
0
B. Planning, Man-
Baseline
5.6
On-going management of coastal
Some MPAs exist but they are not suffi-
agement, and
and marine protected areas.
cient to conserve coastal and marine
Monitoring of
Limited support for co-
biodiversity, particularly in transbound-
Representative
management of MPAs.
ary areas.
MPAs
With GEF
11.0
Representative system of Marine Pro-
Alternative
tected Areas (MPAs) supported with
management plans and basic infra-
structure. Increased management ca-
pacity for MPAs. Increased support for
co-management of MPAs, allowing
meaningful contribution from civil soci-
ety. Increased transboundary coopera-
tion in policy, protection, and manage-
ment of MPAs.
Incremental
5.0
Note: Participating countries and stakeholders will provide an additional
US$2.3 million to this component beyond the US$2.7 million financed
by the GEF.
C. Regional Moni-
Baseline
3.5
Biophysical monitoring within
toring Program
select marine and coastal areas
and Environ-
of participating countries.
mental Informa-
tion System
With GEF
7.8
Establishment of coordinated informa-
Alternative
tion system to organize and manage
data in support of improved decision-
making. Increased collection and analy-
sis of information vital for conserving
coastal and marine biodiversity, includ-
ing monitoring of coral reef ecosystem
health and factors affecting it. Increased
pollution monitoring, including trans-
boundary aspects of point and non-
point source pollution.
Incremental
4.3
Note: Participating countries and stakeholders will provide an additional
US$1.5 million to this component beyond the US$2.8 million financed
by the GEF.

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Annex 4
Page 14 of 14
Component Sec-
Cost
US$
Domestic Benefit
Global Benefit
tor
Category
Million
D. Promotion of
Baseline
16.4
Support for activities targeted at
Sustainable Uses
promoting sustainable coastal
of the MBRS
and marine tourism in select
areas. Increased opportunity for
income generation for coastal
communities. Increased planning
and management capacity at
local level for sustainable coastal
and marine resource manage-
ment. Increased generation of
resources derived from sustain-
able management within tourism
sector.
With GEF
18.0
Increased opportunities for income
Alternative
generation and equitable benefit shar-
ing based upon sustainable uses of
coastal and marine resources. Best
practice guidelines for marine ecotour-
ism identified and promoted. Establish-
ment of a joint commission on regional
fisheries management. Increased local
involvement in transnational manage-
ment of fisheries resources.
Incremental
1.8
Note: Participating countries will provide an additional US$0.1 million to this
component beyond the US$1.7 million financed by the GEF.
E. Environmental
Baseline
5.0
Increased awareness of envi-
Education and
ronmental issues. Increased
Increased Public
capacity and empowerment of
Awareness
local communities regarding
management of local resources.
With GEF
6.6
Increased public awareness of issues
Alternative
related to coastal and marine ecosys-
tem conservation and management.
Meaningful participation of local stake-
holders and participatory schemes for
sustainable natural resource manage-
ment.
Incremental
1.6
Note: Participating countries and stakeholders will provide an additional
US$0.2 million to this component beyond the US$1.4 million financed
by the GEF.
F. Program
Baseline
0.0
Periodic regional consultations
Management
and coordination within the
framework of the Tulum Declara-
tion.
With GEF
2.5
Mechanism and institutional framework
Alternative
established for regional coordination.
Increased coordination of public and
private sector activities aimed at man-
aging marine and coastal areas and
globally significant biodiversity, particu-
larly in transboundary areas.
Effective management of investments
aimed at long-term conservation and
sustainable use of globally significant
biodiversity.
Incremental
2.5
Note: Participating countries and stakeholders will provide an additional
US$0.1 million to this component beyond the US$2.4 million financed by the
GEF.
Totals
Baseline
63.0
With GEF
78.2
Alternative
Total Incre-
15.2
ment
GEF Incre-
11.0
ment

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Annex 5
Page 1 of 1
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 5
Financial Summary
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
Total
Total Financing Required
Project Costs
Investment Costs
1.7
3.1
2.9
2.2
1.3
11.2
Recurrent Costs
0.1
0.9
1.0
1.0
1.0
4.0
Total Project Costs
1.8
4.0
3.9
3.2
2.3
15.2
Total Financing
1.8
4.0
3.9
3.2
2.3
15.2
Financing
GEF
1.5
3.0
2.8
2.3
1.4
11.0
1
Government of Mexico
0.06
0.18
0.17
0.17
0.17
0.75
Government of Belize
0.07
0.41
0.41
0.4
0.41
1.7
Government of Guatemala
0.07
0.16
0.16
0.11
0.09
0.59
Government of Honduras
0.07
0.16
0.16
0.11
0.09
0.59
Non-governmental Orgs.
0.00
0.13
0.14
0.13
0.13
0.53
Total Project Financing
1.77
4.04
3.84
3.22
2.29
15.19
Main assumptions:

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Annex 6
Page 1 of 12
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 6
Procurement and Disbursement Arrangements
Accounting, Financial Reporting, Auditing, and Disbursement Arrangements
I. Procurement
A. Procurement Arrangements
Procurement for the proposed project would be carried out in accordance with World Bank
"Guidelines: Procurement Under IBRD Loans and IDA Credits" published in January 1995 (re-
vised January/August 1996, September 1997 and January 1999); and "Guidelines: Selection and
Employment of Consultants by World Bank Borrowers," published in January 1997 (revised in
September 1999 and January 1999), and the provisions stipulated in the Credit Agreement.
(1) Procurement methods: The methods to be used for the procurement described below, and
the estimated amounts for each method, are summarized in Table A. The threshold contract val-
ues for the use of each method are fixed in Table B.
(a) Procurement of Works
The Project would finance small works for construction of warehouses, visitor's centers, living
quarters and trails, which will be scattered around the region, for an approximate total amount of
US$430,000 equivalent. Most of these works would be procured under lump-sum, fixed price
contracts awarded on the basis of quotations obtained from a minimum of three qualified con-
tractors in response to a written invitation. The invitation shall include a detailed description of
the works, including basic specifications, the required completion date, a basic form of agree-
ment acceptable to IBRD, and relevant drawings, where applicable. The award shall be made to
the contractor who offers the lowest price quotation for the required work, and who has the ex-
perience and resources to complete the contract successfully.
(b) Procurement of Goods
The Project would finance several contract packages for the purchase of boats, radio and com-
munication equipment, lab equipment, production of videos and printing materials, photocopiers,
faxes, computers and software, office furniture, and audio-visual and miscellaneous office
equipment estimated to cost approximately US$2.7 million equivalent. Contracts for the supply
of goods estimated to exceed US$100,000 equivalent shall be awarded on the basis of ICB pro-
cedures; contracts estimated to cost US$25,000 to US$100,000 equivalent (with an aggregate
amount of US$0.6 M ) may be awarded on the basis of NCB procedures, in accordance with ap-
plicable national laws; and contracts estimated to cost below US$25,000 equivalent (with an ag-
gregate amount of US$ 0.3 M) may be awarded on the basis of local or international quotations
from at least 3 firms, in accordance with paragraphs 3.5 and 3.6 of the Guidelines. Standard
documents for NCB and Shopping procedures would be agreed before the first invitation is is-
sued.

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Annex 6
Page 2 of 12
(c ) Consulting Services
The project would finance consulting services to prepare Marine Protected Areas (MPA) data
baselines and monitoring programs, to develop management plans for MPAs, to prepare strate-
gies for sustainable coastal tourism, regional fisheries management, coral reef ecosystem moni-
toring and EIS, to design information campaigns, design and provide training programs, design
and supervise civil works, etc.
Firms
About 15 contracts for firms estimated to cost $ 3.1 million in aggregate would be awarded fol-
lowing a Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) process, in accordance with Section II of the
Consultant Guidelines.
Sole Source Contract . It is anticipated that UNDP will be contracted directly by CCAD to as-
sist it with the management of project funds (check writing and disbursement), and with interna-
tional procurement, and the procurement of minor civil works in the three participating countries
outside of Belize This sole source contract is justified based on the history of UNDP involve-
ment in the implementation and execution of a number of GEF financed projects with both
CCAD and the Government of Belize-- the host country for the Project Coordination Unit--and
on UNDP's presence in all four of the participating countries. Unlike private firms which may
be available in Belize, UNDP has a close working relationship with governments in all four
countries. This will facilitate regional coordination by the PCU in terms of procurement and dis-
bursement of project funds, oversight of local procurement actions in each country and monitor-
ing of physical indicators of project performance. UNDP's current role as implementing agent
for a national, GEF financed project to Conserve the Biological Diversity of the Belize Barrier
Reef, now in its second phase, will allow close coordination between this project and the MBRS
regional Project, a concern specifically raised by the GEF. The director of the executing agency
for the UNDP project--the Coastal Zone Management Authority of Belize--is also the national
coordinator for the Regional MBRS Project, and the new office space to be provided by the GOB
to the MBRS PCU will be adjacent to that of the UNDP Project. This will ensure exchange of
technical information and facilitate training of Project procurement staff and creation of in-house
capacity within the Government of Belize to carry out procurement of international projects
based on best practice.
Individuals
Individual consultants, such as Fisheries Ecologists, Oceanographers and Marine Biologists will
be hired to carry out specific studies and provide technical assistance in connection with specific
project activities individuals would also be hired for specialized advisory services, on an as
needed basis, to the technical working groups, the Project Coordination Unit, or the Regional
Steering Committee. Hiring of those individuals shall be justified and carried out in accordance
with Chapter V of the Consultant Guidelines. Long-term service contracts with individuals for
project administration and other activities would be advertised, and signed for the overall dura-
tion of the assignment, with exit clauses for poor performance ; the total amount of service con-
tracts with individuals is US$2.1 equivalent. The competitive process followed to select individ-
ual consultants would be described in further detail in the Operational Manual.
2) Prior Review thresholds

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Annex 6
Page 3 of 12
The proposed thresholds for prior review are based on the procurement capacity assessment and
are summarized in Table B. All contracts awarded on a single-source basis, assignments of a
critical nature, and amendments raising contract values above the said thresholds would also be
subject to prior review. In addition, the plan and budget for Operating Costs under the Project
will be reviewed and approved by IBRD annually.
B. Assessment Of The Agency's Capacity To Implement Procurement
A procurement capacity assessment of the project office representing CCAD, was carried out in
Belize in September 2000 and a procurement action plan prepared. At the time, the Project Co-
ordination Unit had not yet been set up; only a small office to oversee project preparation and
coordination among the four countries was operational. As Project preparation (PDF Block B)
grants were Bank executed, procurement and accounting functions were housed within the Bank,
and facilitated by the Project Preparation Coordinator, based in Belmopan. Since that time, a
Project Coordination Unit consisting of a Director, an accountant and a procurement officer for
the implementation phase has been set up in interim space in Belize City, provided by the Gov-
ernment of Belize, pending completion of a new building to house the full complement of PCU
staff. The hiring of these staff notwithstanding, given the substantial procurement and training to
be carried out under the Project and the complexity of working in four different countries, the
procurement assessment and action plan recommended that a third party be hired to assist the
Project Coordination Unit in carrying out international procurement and minor civil works in the
four countries, as well as disbursement of Project funds. At the request of the four participating
governments and CCAD, UNDP has been identified to carry out these services on a sole source
basis (see justification above). The procurement officer within the PCU would be responsible for
local procurement and for overseeing procurement processes for the entire Project in accordance
with the procurement plan. He would work with the PCU accountant to prepare the PMRs and
see that annual reporting requirements, as described in the Project Implementation Manual, are
met. The PCU will also hire an assistant/secretary to help monitor procurement and disburse-
ment, assist with filing of documents, etc., no later than project effectiveness. Since his hiring,
the Project Procurement Officer has received training in Bank procurement. He will work
closely with UNDP to build capacity within the PCU and to ensure that that Bank procurement
procedures are met. A draft procurement plan has been prepared and a chapter dealing with pro-
curement will be included in the Project Implementation Manual and adopted prior to project ef-
fectiveness. The manual will describe, at a minimum:
Staffing of the procurement unit (PCU and UNDP).
Organization of the procurement function including a detailed description of individual
responsibilities and appropriate internal control procedures (PCU and UNDP).
Thresholds for different types of procurement of goods and works and for selection of
consultants.
Thresholds for prior review.
Procedural details of the various procurement methods which are going to be used for the
Project.
Procedures for planning and monitoring/supervising procurement actions.
Reporting requirements (internally and to IBRD).

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Annex 6
Page 4 of 12
The Project's filing system and procedures to ensure its control, security and confidenti-
ality (for instance, one file for each process, locked file cabinets, etc.).
Standard documents for NCB and shopping.
UNDP tasks and responsibilities
Under the MBRS Project, UNDP will not be hired to implement the Project, but rather to carry
out prescribed administrative services on behalf of the PCU. These include: (i) all international
procurement; (ii) procurement of minor civil works in Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico associ-
ated with the Marine Protected Areas component of the Project (civil works in Belize will be
handled locally by the PCU); and (iii) handling and disbursement of Project funds .Procurement
activities will be the responsibility of UNDP/Belize, while flow of funds and disbursement (and
financial reporting to the PCU), will be handled by UNDP's regional office in El Salvador. The
latter has extensive experience in handling funds and disbursement for Bank financed projects,
consistent with international best practice .
The MBRS Project Coordination Unit (PCU) based in Belize City will undertake all local pro-
curement for the Project, and be responsible for preparing terms of reference for consultant ser-
vices, and technical specifications for procurement of civil works and goods, as necessary, and
for coordinating all training activities The PCU will also be responsible for supervising imple-
mentation of all Project procurement, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality control at each
stage of the processes, and reporting to Bank Headquarters, as outlined in the PIM To enable the
PCU to carry out its responsibilities vis a vis procurement oversight and reporting to Bank Head-
quarters. ) To provide timely service to the PCU and prevent delays that might otherwise arise,
UNDP will carry out procurement services from their field office in Belize. The UNDP office in
Belmopan will maintain a dedicated Procurement Officer, a Procurement Assistant and a Secre-
tary on site to work on the Project. The UNDP procurement officer will be available to assist the
PCU in the preparation of bidding documents on a demand basis. Consistent with this, all bids in
response to RFPs will be opened and reviewed at the PCU office in Belize City.
UNDP will be responsible for further training of its own staff and that of the PCU to ensure that
the requisite skills and capacity to carry out procurement in line with the Bank's procedures and
international best practice, is created in house, within the PCU and locally in UNDP/Belize.
UNDP will do this by either seconding UNDP/El Salvador procurement staff to Belize to provide
continuous, hands on training for a prescribed period of time, or, through periodic training to
UNDP and MBRS PCU staff as needed to implement the Project procurement plan.
UNDP fees
UNDP will be reimbursed at a flat rate of 3.2% of total funds disbursed under the Project, up to
$11 million. Reimbursement at this rate will cover all services contracted for under the project,
including training and operating expenses. UNDP has agreed that all interest generated through
the management of project funds will revert to the MBRS Project. UNDP has also agreed to ad-
vance funds to the Project on a reimbursable (interest free basis) for the salary of PCU staff be-
tween the time of negotiations and project effectiveness, once project preparation funds are ex-
hausted. This is estimated not to exceed a period of 2-3 months. A contract between UNDP and
CCAD outlining the nature of the relationship between the Project and UNDP and the services
and reimbursement to be provided, will be drawn up by Project effectiveness.

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Annex 6
Page 5 of 12
D. Procurement
Plan
At appraisal, the Grantee developed a procurement plan for project implementation which pro-
vided the basis for the aggregate amounts for the procurement methods (per Table A). The Pro-
curement Officer for the PPU is making final adjustments to the Procurement Plan and it will be
reviewed and approved by the Bank before negotiations. At the beginning of each calendar
year, the Grantee will update the Procurement Plan with a detailed procurement schedule for the
coming year. The procurement plan will be kept in the project files.
E. Frequency of Procurement Supervision
Procurement supervision missions should be carried out every year by a Procurement Specialist
(PS) or Procurement Accredited Staff (PAS) An initial visit will be carried out during Project
launch, to assist with preparation of initial bidding documents, and to work with UNDP/Belize
procurement staff who will be assisting the PCU. Procurement supervisions missions should in-
clude a review of (i) the procurement plan for the project, including a timetable for procurement
actions anticipated during the next 12 months; : (ii) the Project Coordination Unit's capacity to
implement the procurement plan; (iii) the PCU monitoring system for the purposes of the Pro-
ject; and (iv) complete records for one in every five contracts (for goods, works, and consulting
services, respectively). The PS or PAS should perform selected physical inspections of the
goods received and meet with selected suppliers/contractors, whenever possible. A consultant is
working with the PCU in the preparation of a system for monitoring and reporting procurement
actions which is PMR compatible and LACI compliant. However it will not be ready in time for
negotiations. Consequently the PCU is INELIGIBLE for PMR-based disbursements on pro-
curement reporting grounds at this time. The situation will be re-assessed when the consultant's
work is completed nearer to the time of project effectiveness.
The hiring of UNDP as a procurement and disbursement agent is expected to mitigate the risk
associated with administration of this regional project. The UNDP office in Belize will be re-
assessed after the first year of implementation, and thereafter, UNDP's contract will be reviewed
annually to ensure that performance is consistent with the PCU's needs and Bank procedures as a
condition for contract renewal. In light of the arrangements outlined above to strengthen Project
procurement capacity both in-house, as well as through the services of UNDP, the Overall Pro-
curement Risk was assessed as "average." The Procurement Capacity/Action plan was approved
for negotiations by the Regional Procurement Advisor's Office on January 11, 2001.
II. Disbursement and Financial Management
A. Accounting and Financial Reporting
A financial management assessment was carried out in Belize in July 2000. It was identified that
a financial management system has not been implemented; therefore, an action plan was agreed
with the PCU to ensure that by project effectiveness an adequate financial management PMR
compliant system is in place. The necessary guidelines and technical assistance have been pro-
vided to ensure that an adequate financial management system, internal controls, monitoring sys-
tems, and staffing of the PCU, are in place to achieve the certification of the Project's financial

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Annex 6
Page 6 of 12
management system under the Bank's Loan Administration Change Initiative (LACI). The PCU
has initiated the process of implementing the action plan by organizing the unit, hiring the ac-
countant and procurement specialist, and contracting a consultant for the design and implementa-
tion of a Project Management Report (PMR) compliant financial management system. The ac-
tion plan agreed upon includes key actions to: (a) design and implement a financial management
system that meets PMR requirements; (b) hire the staff needed to establish the PCU; (c) develop
administrative procedures; and (d) hire external auditors.. Although the funds will be managed
by UNDP El Salvador, the PCU will be responsible for the recording and reporting on project
activities.
The PCU will implement an adequate integrated financial management system for the Project,
including internal control systems that: (i) are in accordance with international accounting stan-
dards; (ii) reliably record and report all assets, liabilities and financial transactions of the Project;
(iii) provide sufficient financial information for managing and monitoring Project activities; and
(iv) integrate financial information, disbursements, purchasing, physical and financial progress
of Project indicators, procurement, and control of contracts, to allow the generation of quarterly
programmatic financial reports on the financial and physical advance of each component, as well
as financial information by disbursement category. The detail of these procedures will be con-
tained in the Project Implementation Plan.
B. Auditing
Arrangements
An external auditor acceptable to the Bank will be contracted by the PCU to carry out an annual
financial audit of the Project, as required by OP/BP 10.02. The auditor will be selected according
to the Bank's Guidelines-Selection and Use of Consultants by World Bank Borrowers, dated
January 1997, revised September 1997 and January 1999. A short list of auditing firms accept-
able to the Bank has already been prepared, the TORs for the contracting of the auditors will be
submitted to the Bank by effectiveness. The auditors should be hired at Project inception, and
prior to commencement of each Project fiscal year thereafter, so that the interim audits can be
performed throughout each year of Project implementation. The Project financial statements, the
statement of transfer of funds to UNDP, SOEs (if applicable), and the PMRs will be audited at
the end of each fiscal year during Project implementation. An audited report of the Project finan-
cial statements will be submitted to the Bank within 120 days of the close of the Project's finan-
cial year. The Guidelines and Terms of Reference for Audits of Projects with Financing by the
World Bank in the Latin American and the Caribbean Region should be followed by the PCU
when preparing the terms of reference for the audit and these guidelines should be provided to
the selected auditors.
C. Disbursement
Procedures
The Bank and the Borrower have agreed that if by Project effectiveness, the PCU has not imple-
mented a PMR compliant system, but has in place a financial system that meets minimum Bank
requirements, the traditional disbursement procedures will be used for the first two quarters of
Project implementation, in accordance with the guidelines set in the Disbursement Procedures
Handbook. SOE documentation will be maintained by the PCU for post-review and audit pur-
poses. The authorized transfer(s) to UNDP, for Non-PMR disbursements will be set at a level
sufficient to cover approximately six months of estimated expenditures eligible for financing by

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Annex 6
Page 7 of 12
the Bank. Replenishments of funds will be made on evidence of satisfactory utilization of the
previous advance(s) as evidenced by the documentation submitted in support of disbursement
applications. Deposits into the UNDP project account and its replenishments, up to an amount of
6 months of eligible project needs, will be made on the basis of Applications for Withdrawals
(Form 1903) accompanied by the supporting and other documentation specified in the Disburse-
ment Handbook. Withdrawal applications will be fully documented, except for expenditures un-
der contracts costing less than US$ 100,000 for goods (except the 1st. and 2nd. contracts under
NCB and shopping procedures); US$100,000 for consulting firm; US$ 50,000 for individual
consultants; all training expenditures; and all operating costs.
D. Retroactive
Financing
UNDP has agreed to facilitate Project Coordnation unit expenditures on a retroactive financing
basis in the event that Project Preparation Grant (PDF) funds are inadequate to cover these costs
through the period to Project effectiveness.
E. Use of Project Management Report (PMRs):
By the end of the second quarter of Project implementation, or earlier if the PCU is compliant
and requests transition to a full PMR system, the PMRs would serve as disbursement requests.
Transition to PMR will be subject to the satisfactory results of new financial management and
procurement assessments. Once the borrower becomes PMR compliant, disbursements would be
in accordance with guidelines set in the Loan Administration Change Initiative (LACI) Imple-
mentation Handbook. Each application for withdrawal should separately identify the funds re-
quested from the GEF grant Account, and would be supported by a PMR or such other docu-
ments and evidence as the Bank may request. PMRs should be submitted within 45 days from
the preceding quarter. Upon receipt of each application for withdrawal, the Bank, on behalf of
the Borrower, shall withdraw from the GEF grant account and deposit into the UNDP project
account an amount equal to the lesser of: (a) the amount requested; and (b) the amount the Bank
has determined, based on the PMR accompanying the application, is required to be deposited in
order to finance eligible expenditures during the six month period following the date of the re-
port, but in no case should exceed 20% of the total grant funds, without prior authorization from
the Loan department. The PCU would be responsible for preparing withdrawal applications and
the related PMRs. All supporting documentation authenticating the expenditures reported in the
PMRs would be maintained by the PCU and made available for review by independent auditors
and by the Bank supervision missions. Direct Payments and Special Commitments should be
clearly identified in the PMRs and the PCU shall include the documentation required for these
types of payments.
F. Flow Of Funds
The Project funds will be transferred into a designated account by UNDP Headquarters, from
where funds will be transferred to UNDP /El Salvador into separate bank account in US Dollars.
The PCU will be responsible for submitting appropriate disbursement applications to request the
transfer of funds to UNDP. Replenishments of funds under SOEs will be made on evidence of
satisfactory utilization of the previous advance(s) as evidenced by the documentation submitted
in support of disbursement applications. A separate special account at a local bank in Belize will

---

Annex 6
Page 8 of 12
be maintained to cover operating costs of the PCU. This will be maintained through quarterly
advances from the Bank's grant account, based on SOEs from the prior quarter and PCU esti-
mates of costs for the upcoming quarter. Deposits into the Project account at UNDP Headquar-
ters and its replenishments, up to the Authorized amounts, will be made initially on the basis of
Applications for Withdrawals (Form 1903) accompanied with the supporting and other
documentation specified in the Disbursement Handbook. Once the PCU is PMR compliant, and
is certified as such by the Bank, and disbursements are PMR based, any subsequent disbursement
from the GEF grant account would be to cover estimated eligible expenditures for the next six-
months of cash forecast reported in the PMR, as described hereafter.

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Annex 6
Page 9 of 12
Table A: Project Costs by Procurement Arrangements1
(in US$ Million equivalent)
Expenditure Category
Procurement Method
Total Cost (in-
cluding
ICB
NCB
Other
N.B.F
Contingencies)
1. Works
0.43
0.43
( )
( )
( 0.43 )
( )
( 0.43 )
2. Goods
1.57
0.57
0.30
0.24
2.68
(1.57)
(0.57)
( 0.30)2
()
(2.44)
3. Services
4.70
0.46
5.16
( )
( )
(4.70)3
(4.70)
4. Training
2.30
0.65
2.95
( )
( )
(2.30)
(2.30)
5. Operating Costs
1.14
2.88
4.02
(1.14)
(1.14)
GEF Total
1.57
0.57
8.87
0.00
11.00
Project Total
1.57
0.57
8.87
4.23
15.24
()
Note: N.B.F. = Not Bank-financed (includes elements procured under parallel co-financing procedures, consultan-
cies under trust funds, any reserved procurement, and any other miscellaneous items). The procurement arrangement
for the items listed under "Other" and details of the items listed as "N.B.F." need to be explained in footnotes to the
table or in the text.
Figures in parenthesis are the amounts to be financed by the Bank loan/IDA credit
1 For details on presentation of Procurement Methods refer to OD11.02, "Procurement Arrange-
ments for Investment Operations." Details on Consultant Services can be shown more easily in
the Table A1 format (additional to Table A, where applicable).
2 Shopping.
3 QCBS and Chapter V of the Consultant Guidelines, as applicable.

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Annex 6
Page 10 of 12
Annex 6, Table A1: Consultant Selection Arrangements (optional)
(in US$ Million equivalent)
Consultant Services
Selection Method
Total Cost (in-
Expenditure Category
cluding contin-
gencies)
QCBS
QBS
SFB
LCS
CQ
Other*
N.B.F
.
A. Firms
3.1
0.352
3.452
(3.1)
( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
(3.1)
B. Individuals
0
2.1
2.1
(0.0)
( )
( )
( )
( )
(2.1)4
( )
(2.1)
Total
3.1
2.1
5.2
( 3.1 )
( )
( )
( )
( )
(2.1)
( )
(5.2)
Note:
QCBS = Quality- and Cost-Based Selection
QBS = Quality-based Selection
SFB = Selection under a Fixed Budget
LCS = Least-Cost Selection
CQ = Selection Based on Consultants' Qualifications
Other = Selection of individual consultants (per Section V of Consultants Guidelines), Commercial Practices, etc.
N.B.F. = Not Bank-financed.
Figures in parenthesis are the amounts to be financed by the Bank loan.
* Other: under firms refers to UNDP's fee of 3.2%
4 Selection according to Chapter V of the Consultant Guidelines. Competitive procedures de-
tailed in the Implementation Manual.

---

Annex 6
Page 11 of 12
Annex 6, Table B: Thresholds for Procurement Methods and Prior Review5
Expenditure
Contract Value
Procurement
Contracts Subject to
Category
(Threshold)
Method
Prior Review
US$ Thousands
US$ Millions
1. Works
Irrespective of amount
Price comparison
First 2 contracts
2. Goods
>100,000
ICB
All
(1.3)
100,000-25,000
NCB
First 2 contracts
(0.4)
<25,000
Shopping
First 2 contracts
(0.2)
3. Services
(a) Consulting Firms
Irrespective of amount
QCBS
All contract estimated to
cost more than
US$100,000
(3.2)
All TORs for contracts
below US$100,000
Sole source to UNDP
All
(b) Individuals
Irrespective of amount
Section V of the Consult-
All contracts estimated to
ant Guidelines
cost more than
US$50,000
(2.2)
All TORs for contracts
below US$50,000
Total value of contracts subject to prior review:
Overall Procurement Risk Assessment:
High
Average
X
Low
Frequency of procurement supervision missions proposed: One every 12 month(s) (includes special procurement
supervision for post-review/audits)
5 Thresholds generally differ by country and project. Consult OD 11.04 "Review of Procurement
Documentation" and contact the Regional Procurement Adviser for guidance.

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Annex 6
Page 12 of 12
Annex 6, Table C: Allocation of Credit Proceeds
Expenditure Category
Amount in US$ Million
Financing Percentage
1. Works
0.39 (=0.32 SDR)
100% if UNDP, 85% otherwise
2. Goods
2.20 (= 1.70 SDR)
100% if UNDP, 85% otherwise
3. Consulting Services
4.23 (= 3.25 SDR)
100
4. Training
2.07 (= 1.60 SDR)
100
5. Operating Costs
1.03 (= .80 SDR)
100% if UNDP, 85% otherwise
6. Unallocated
1.08 (= .83 SDR)
N.A.
Total
11.00 (= 8.50 SDR)

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Annex 7
Page1 of 1
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 7
Project Processing Schedule
Project Schedule
Planned
Actual
Time taken to prepare the project (months)
30 months
36 months
First Bank mission (identification)
November 1997
November 1997
Appraisal mission departure
September 2000
Negotiations
November 2000
Planned Date of Effectiveness
March 1, 2000
Bank staff who worked on the project included:
Name
Specialty
Marea Hatziolos, TTL
Coastal and Marine Resources Management
John Kellenberg
Natural Resource Economics
Arsenio Rodriguez
Environmental and Natural Resources Management
Juan Martinez
Social Science, Indigenous People
Luz Zeron
Financial Management
Irani Escolano
Procurement
Ferenc Molnar
Legal
Jeff Lecksell
Cartography
Katherin George Golitzen
Editing and Quality Control
Lourdes Guzzone
Contracting and SAP/Team Assistant
Bari Rabin
Operations Analyst

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Annex 8
Page1 of 1
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 8
Documents in the Project File*
Preliminary List
Studies Prepared under the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef Systems Project (MBRS) (Preparation
Phase)
1. Sale, P. et al. 1999. Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System ­
guidelines for Developing a Regional Environmental Information and Monitoring System. World
Bank/Government of Canada Trust Funds
2. University of Miami/RSMAS. 1999. Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA). Meso-
american Barrier Reef System Workshop, Final Report to the World Bank. World
Bank/Netherlands Environmental Partnership Fund.
3. Kramer, P. and Kramer P. 2000. Ecological Status of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System ­ Im-
pacts of Hurricane Mitch and 1998 Coral Bleaching. University of Miami-RSMAS/World Bank.
4. FAO. 2000. Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Threat
and Root Cause Analysis (+ 4 National Reports). Investment Centre, FAO/World Bank Coopera-
tive Program.
5. FAO. 2000. Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Institu-
tions Study. Investment Centre, FAO/World Bank Cooperative Program.
6. Dulin, P. 2000. Environmental Assessment of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System Project
(MBRS). World Bank/GEF PDF Block B.
7. IDEADS. 2000. Diagnóstico Sobre Armonización de Legislación, Políticas y Coordinación Institu-
cional para el Manejo del Sistema Arrecifal Mesoamericano (SAM) (+ 4 National Reports). World
Bank/GEF PDF Block B.
8. Silva, M. 2000. Análisis Social del Area de Influencia del Sistema de Arrecife Mesoamericano
(SAM) (+ 4 National Reports). World Bank/PDF Block B.
9. Barborak, J. 2000. in draft. Marine Protected Areas and Public Awareness and Education ­ Guide-
lines for the Development of MBRS Project Components.
*Including electronic files

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Annex 9
Page 1 of 5
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 9
Statement of Loans and Credits
Belize
Active Projects
Difference between
Original Amount in US$ Millions
Expected and Actual
Disbursements a/
Project ID Project Name
Fiscal Year IBRD IDA GRANT Cancel.Undisb.Orig.Frm Rev'd
P040150
ROADS AND MUNICIPAL DRAINAGE PROJECT
2001
13
0
0
0
13
0
0
P039292
SOCIAL INVEST. FUND
1997
7
0
0
0
3.4 2.6
0
Result
Result
20
0
0
0
16.4 2.6
0
Belize
Statement of IFC's
Held and Disbursed Portfolio
As of 8/31/00
(In US Dollars Millions)
Held
Disbursed
FY Approval
Company
Loan
Equity
Quasi
Partic
Loan
Equity
Quasi
Partic
1993 BECOL
5
0
0
0
5
0
0
0
1998 Nova/Ambergris
5.5
0
0
0
5.5
0
0
0
Total Portfolio:
10.5
0
0
0
10.5
0
0
0
Approvals Pending Commitment
Loan
Equity
Quasi
Partic
2000 BAL
10000
0
0
0
Total Pending Commitment:
10000
0
0
0

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Annex 9
Page 2 of 5
Statement of Loans and Credits
Guatemala
Active Projects
Original Amount in US$
Difference Between Ex-
Millions
pected and Actual Dis-
bursements
Project IDProject Name
Fiscal YearIBRD IDA Expected Cancel. Undisb.
Orig.
Frm
and Ac-
Rev'd
tual
P048657 GT INTEG FIN MGMT II
1998
15.7
0
0
0
5.3
5.3
0
P047039 GT JUDICIAL REFORM
1999
33
0
0
0
29.8
7.3
0
P048654 GT TAX ADMIN. TAL
1998
28.2
0
0
0
24.5
24.5
0
P007223 GT/BASIC EDUCATION REFORM
1997
33
0
0
0
10.3
-1
0
P040198 GT/FIS II
1999
50
0
0
0
8.2
-24.1
0
P049386 GT/RECONSTRUCTION & LOCAL DEV.
1999
30
0
0
0
27.3
8.9
0
P049616 LAND ADMINISTRATION
1999
31
0
0
0
26.4
7
0
P054462 LAND FUND
1999
23
0
0
0
22.8
7.2
0
P048756 PRIV PRTCPTN INFR TA
1997
13
0
0
0
9.8
8.9
0
P035737 RURAL & MAIN ROADS
1998
66.7
0
0
0
48.9
3.8
0
Result
Result
323.6
0
0
0
213.2
47.7
0
Guatemala
Statement of IFC's
Held and Disbursed Portfolio
As of 8/31/00
(In US Dollars Millions)
Held
Disbursed
FY ApprovalCompany
Loan
EquityQuasi Partic Loan
Equity
Quasi Partic
1997Aceros
13.5
0
0
9.33
13.5
0
0
9.33
1994Fabrigas
2.63
0
1
0
2.63
0
1
0
2000Frutera
7
0
0
0
7
0
0
0
1998La Fragua
20
0
0
0
20
0
0
0
1997Orzunil
12.91 1.17
0
14.7
12.91
1.17
0
14.7
1996Pantaleon
12.5
0
0
0
12.5
0
0
0
1993/96
Puerto Quetzal
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1993Vigua
4.13
0
0
0
4.13
0
0
0
Total Portfolio:
72.67 1.17
1 24.03
72.67
1.17
1
24.03
Approvals Pending Commitment
Loan
EquityQuasi Partic

---

Annex 9
Page 3 of 5
Statement of Loans and Credits
Honduras
Active Projects
Original Amount in US$ Millions Difference Between Expected and
Actual Disbursements a/
Project ID
Project Name
Fiscal Year IBRD IDA GRANT Cancel. Undisb.
Orig.
Frm Rev'd
P044343
BIODIVERSITY PROJ
1998
0
0
7
0
5.4
2.8
0
P007396
ENVIRON. DEVELOPMENT
1995
0 10.8
0
0
1
1.6
1.6
P060785
HN ECONOMIC & FIN.MANAGEMENT PROJECT
2001
0
19
0
0
18.6
0
0
P007387
HN PUB SEC MOD SAC
1996
0 115.7
0
0
26.7
1.1
36.8
P007399
HN/BASIC EDUCATION
1995
0
30
0
0
5.4
7.9
0
P048651
HN/FHIS IV
1999
0 67.5
0
0
22.9
-16.3
0
P007392
HN/NUTRITION/HEALTH
1993
0 35.4
0
0
3
-7.9
2.7
P057350
PROFUTURO
1999
0
8.3
0
0
6.4
1.1
0
P007398
RURAL LAND MGMT
1997
0
34
0
0
15.6
10
10
P007388
TRNSPRT SCTR RHB
1993
0
85
0
0
7.4
-12.9
7.3
Result
Result
0 405.7
7
0
112.3
-12.5
58.3
Honduras
Statement of IFC's
Held and Disbursed Portfolio
As of 8/31/00
(In US Dollars Millions)
Held
Disbursed
FY Approval
Company
Loan
Equity
Quasi
Partic
Loan
Equity
Quasi
Partic
1998 Camino Real Plaz
10
0
0
0
8
0
0
0
1995/98
Elcosa
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1986/99
Granjas Marinas
6
0
0
0
6
0
0
0
Total Portfolio:
16
0
0
0
14
0
0
0
Approvals Pending Commitment
Loan
Equity
Quasi
Partic
2000 Agropalma
7000
0
0
0
1999 Celtel Honduras
5000
0
5000
15000
Total Pending Commitment:
12000
0
5000
15000

---

Annex 9
Page 4 of 5
Statement of Loans and Credits
Mexico
Active Projects
Original Amount in US$ Millions
Difference Between Expected
and Actual Disbursements a
Project ID
Project Name
Fiscal Year
IBRD
IDA GRANT Cancel. Undisb.
Orig.
Frm
Rev'd
P048505
AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT
1999
444.4
0
0
0
266.3
20.3
0
P060718
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
2000
0
0
0
0
7.5
2.6
0
P007726
AQUACULTURE
1997
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
P067491
Bank Restructuring Facility
2000
505.1
0
0
0
150
144.9
0
P007700
COMMUNITY FORESTRY
1997
15
0
0
0
7.8
2.9
0
P043163
FEDERAL ROADS MODZTN
1997
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
P007610
FOVI RESTRUCTURING
1999
505
0
0
0
462
295.3
0
P007723
HWY RHB & SAFETY
1993
480
0
0
0
0
0
0
P044531
KNOWLEDGE & INNOV.
1998
300
0
0
0
251.2
31.9
0
P007648
MEDIUM CITIES TRANSP
1993
200
0
0
23
106.8
129.8
106.8
P066938
MX GENDER (LIL)
2000
3.1
0
0
0
3.1
0
0
P007720
MX: HEALTH SYSTEM REFORM - SAL
1998
700
0
0
0
350
350
0
P040199
MX: BASIC EDUC.DEVELOPMENT PHASE I
1998
115
0
0
0
68.1
30.9
0
P007689
MX: BASIC HEALTH II
1996
310
0
0
0
90.7
78
68
P055061
MX: HEALTH SYSTEM REFORM TA
1998
25
0
0
0
14.8
10.9
0
P049895
MX: HIGHER ED. FINANCING
1998
180.2
0
0
0
164.6
36.7
0
P007725
MX: PRIMARY EDUC.II
1994
412
0
0
40
63.5
103.5
63.5
P034490
MX: TECHNICAL EDUC/TRAINING
1995
265
0
0
30
120.5
150.5
5.5
P007710
N. BORDER I ENVIRONM
1994
368
0
0
301
36.2
323.8
47.1
P007701
ON-FARM & MINOR IRRI
1994
200
0
0
30
49.5
79.5
13.7
P050429
OZONE PROTECTION III
1998
0
0
13
0
10.1
-1.9
0
P007711
RURAL DEV. MARG.AREA
1998
47
0
0
0
33.2
13.6
0
P057530
RURAL DEV.MARG.ARII
2000
55
0
0
0
51.4
0.1
0
P007732
RURAL FIN. MKTS T.A.
1997
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
P007702
SECOND DECENTRALZTN
1995
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
P007612
SOLID WASTE II
1994
200
0
0
193.1
1.5
-4.5
1.5
P007713
WATER RESOURCES MANA
1996
186.5
0
0
0
132.6
67.5
12.8
Result
Result
5516.3
0
13
617.1 2441.7
1866.6
318.9

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Annex 9
Page 5 of 5
Mexico
Statement of IFC's
Held and Disbursed Portfolio
As of 8/31/00
(In US Dollars Millions)
Held
Disbursed
FY Approval
Company
Loan
Equity
Quasi
Partic
Loan
Equity Quasi Partic
1988/91/92/93/95
Apasco
12.6
0
0
50.4
12.6
0
0
50.4
1998Ayvi
10
0
0
0
10
0
0
0
1990/92/96
BANAMEX
96.21
0
0
45.18
96.21
0
0
45.18
1997Banco Bilbao MXC
70.59
0
30
0
70.59
0
30
0
1992Banorte-SABROZA
3
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
1995/96
Baring Mex. FMC
0
0.02
0
0
0
0.02
0
0
1995/99
Baring Venture
0
2.73
0
0
0
0
0
0
1998CIMA Mexico
0
4.8
0
0
0
4.8
0
0
1998CIMA Puebla
7
0
0
0
3.5
0
0
0
1994CTAPV
3.73
0
2.32
0
3.73
0
2.32
0
0Chiapas-Propalma
0
0.8
0
0
0
0.31
0
0
1997Comercializadora
3.06
0
2.19
6.25
3.06
0
2.19
6.25
1999Corsa
13
3
0
0
13
3
0
0
1993Derivados
2.2
0
0
0
2.2
0
0
0
1997Fondo Chiapas
0
4.2
0
0
0
0.43
0
0
1998Forja Monterrey
13
3
0
13
13
3
0
13
1991/96
GIBSA
21.64
0
10
72.76
21.64
0
10
72.76
1993GIDESA
6.25
8
0
4.25
6.25
8
0
4.25
1996/00
GIRSA
45
0
0
60
22.71
0
0
30.29
1993GOTM
0.82
0
0
0.22
0.82
0
0
0.22
1997/98
Gen. Hipotecaria
0
1.2
0
0
0
0
0
0
1998Grupo Calidra
12
6
0
10
12
6
0
10
1989Grupo FEMSA
0
9.43
0
0
0
9.43
0
0
1997Grupo Minsa
18
10
0
27
18
10
0
27
1992/93/95/96/99
Grupo Posadas
25
0
10
10
25
0
10
10
1992/96/97/98
Grupo Probursa
0
1.32
0
0
0
1.32
0
0
1998Grupo Sanfandila
9.58
0
0
4.7
6.25
0
0
3.03
1994/96/98/00
Heller Financial
0
0.32
0
0
0
0.32
0
0
2000ITR
14
0
0
4
10.9
0
0
3.1
1994Interceramic
8
0
6
3.5
8
0
6
3.5
2000InverCap
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
1993Masterpak
2.4
0
0
0
2.4
0
0
0
1998Merida III
30
0
0
73.95
27.36
0
0
67.44
1995/99
Mexplus Puertos
0
1.41
0
0
0
1.41
0
0
1996/99/00
NEMAK
0
0
0.83
0
0
0
0.83
0
1998Punta Langosta
2.63
1
0
4.55
2.63
1
0
4.55
2000Rio Bravo
50
0
0
59.5
22.83
0
0
27.17
2000Saltillo S.A.
35
0
0
43
0
0
0
0
1999Sudamerica
0
15
0
0
0
15
0
0
1997TMA
2.77
0
2.1
9.6
2.77
0
2.1
9.6
1992Toluca Toll Road
7.16
0
0
0
7.16
0
0
0
1991/92
Vitro
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1991Vitro Flotado
4.96
0
0
2.07
4.96
0
0
2.07
1998ZN Mxc Eqty Fund
0
25.3
0
0
0
9.81
0
0
Total Portfolio:
529.6
98.53
63.44
503.93
432.57 74.85 63.44
389.81
Approvals Pending Commitment
Loan
Equity
Quasi
Partic
2000Teksid Aluminio
25000
0
0
0
2000Teksid Hierro
15000
0
0
30000
1999BANAMEX LRF II
50000
0
0
0
1999Baring BMPEF FMC
0
60
0
0
1998Cima Hermosillo
7000
0
0
0
2000Educacion
9700
0
0
0
2000FCCM
10500
2000
0
17700
2000Hospital ABC
30000
0
0
14000
2000Innopack
15000
15000
0
0
Total Pending Commitment:
162200
17060
0
61700

---

Annex 10
Page1 of 5
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 10
Countries at a Glance
Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico

---

Belize at a glance
8/25/00

Latin
Lower-
POVERTY and SOCIAL

America
middle-
Belize
& Carib.
income
Development diamond*
1999
Population, mid-year (millions)
0.25
509
2,094
Life expectancy
GNP per capita (Atlas method, US$)
2,730
3,840
1,200
GNP (Atlas method, US$ billions)
0.67
1,955
2,513
Average annual growth, 1993-99
Population (%)
3.1
1.6
1.1
Labor force (%)
4.1
2.5
1.2
GNP
Gross
per
primary
Most recent estimate (latest year available, 1993-99)
capita
enrollment
Poverty (% of population below national poverty line)
..
..
..
Urban population (% of total population)
53
75
43
Life expectancy at birth (years)
75
70
69
Infant mortality (per 1,000 live births)
28
31
33
Child malnutrition (% of children under 5)
..
8
15
Access to safe water
Access to improved water source (% of population)
73
75
86
Illiteracy (% of population age 15+)
7
12
16
Gross primary enrollment (% of school-age population)
121
113
114
Belize
Male
123
..
114
Lower-middle-income group
Female
119
..
116
KEY ECONOMIC RATIOS and LONG-TERM TRENDS
1979
1989
1998
1999
Economic ratios*
GDP (US$ billions)
0.15
0.36
0.68
0.73
Gross domestic investment/GDP
..
30.3
23.0
24.2
Trade
Exports of goods and services/GDP
..
59.7
50.0
48.8
Gross domestic savings/GDP
..
20.9
15.9
14.5
Gross national savings/GDP
..
25.1
16.9
16.2
Current account balance/GDP
..
-5.0
-6.2
-8.0
Domestic
Interest payments/GDP
0.4
1.7
2.2
2.2
Investment
Savings
Total debt/GDP
47.2
39.9
50.0
49.4
Total debt service/exports
..
8.5
12.3
10.7
Present value of debt/GDP
..
..
45.0
..
Present value of debt/exports
..
..
82.2
..
Indebtedness
1979-89
1989-99
1998
1999
1999-03
(average annual growth)
GDP
3.9
4.1
4.5
4.5
5.2
Belize
GNP per capita
1.0
1.0
-0.2
1.1
2.1
Lower-middle-income group
Exports of goods and services
6.8
2.1
-0.6
6.9
4.8
STRUCTURE of the ECONOMY
1979
1989
1998
1999
Growth of investment and GDP (%)
(% of GDP)
40
Agriculture
30.8
20.4
18.9
18.6
Industry
21.9
26.5
25.5
25.0
20
Manufacturing
15.1
16.4
15.1
14.8
0
Services
47.3
53.1
55.6
56.3
94
95
96
97
98
99
-20
Private consumption
..
63.9
64.2
68.0
-40
General government consumption
..
15.2
19.9
17.5
GDI
GDP
Imports of goods and services
..
69.1
57.2
58.4
1979-89
1989-99
1998
1999
Growth of exports and imports (%)
(average annual growth)
Agriculture
2.2
6.4
-1.5
11.7
20
Industry
3.9
3.1
-1.0
4.6
10
Manufacturing
3.2
3.5
-2.9
4.8
Services
4.1
2.8
4.0
4.7
0
94
95
96
97
98
99
Private consumption
0.0
4.2
9.5
10.6
-10
General government consumption
0.9
7.7
4.6
-8.4
Gross domestic investment
6.6
0.1
1.6
9.7
-20
Imports of goods and services
2.2
1.7
3.9
11.5
Exports
Imports
Gross national product
3.7
3.9
3.8
4.6
Note: 1999 data are preliminary estimates.
* The diamonds show four key indicators in the country (in bold) compared with its income-group average. If data are missing, the diamond will
be incomplete.

---

Guatemala at a glance
9/12/00

Latin
Lower-
POVERTY and SOCIAL

America
middle-
Guatemala
& Carib.
income
Development diamond*
1999
Population, mid-year (millions)
11.1
509
2,094
Life expectancy
GNP per capita (Atlas method, US$)
1,660
3,840
1,200
GNP (Atlas method, US$ billions)
18.4
1,955
2,513
Average annual growth, 1993-99
Population (%)
2.6
1.6
1.1
Labor force (%)
3.6
2.5
1.2
GNP
Gross
per
primary
Most recent estimate (latest year available, 1993-99)
capita
enrollment
Poverty (% of population below national poverty line)
75
..
..
Urban population (% of total population)
39
75
43
Life expectancy at birth (years)
64
70
69
Infant mortality (per 1,000 live births)
37
31
33
Child malnutrition (% of children under 5)
27
8
15
Access to safe water
Access to improved water source (% of population)
67
75
86
Illiteracy (% of population age 15+)
32
12
16
Gross primary enrollment (% of school-age population)
88
113
114
Guatemala
Male
93
..
114
Lower-middle-income group
Female
83
..
116
KEY ECONOMIC RATIOS and LONG-TERM TRENDS
1979
1989
1998
1999
Economic ratios*
GDP (US$ billions)
6.9
8.4
18.9
18.0
Gross domestic investment/GDP
18.7
13.5
16.0
15.7
Trade
Exports of goods and services/GDP
21.3
17.3
18.6
18.8
Gross domestic savings/GDP
14.2
8.3
7.7
8.3
Gross national savings/GDP
16.1
8.0
10.5
11.5
Current account balance/GDP
-3.0
-5.4
-5.5
-5.3
Domestic
Interest payments/GDP
0.7
1.3
0.7
0.8
Investment
Savings
Total debt/GDP
15.2
31.5
20.9
22.6
Total debt service/exports
7.3
19.6
9.8
9.6
Present value of debt/GDP
..
..
22.6
..
Present value of debt/exports
..
..
105.2
..
Indebtedness
1979-89
1989-99
1998
1999
1999-03
(average annual growth)
GDP
0.4
4.1
5.1
3.5
5.0
Guatemala
GNP per capita
-2.3
1.5
2.8
0.6
2.4
Lower-middle-income group
Exports of goods and services
-3.7
6.5
6.0
4.8
7.9
STRUCTURE of the ECONOMY
1979
1989
1998
1999
Growth of investment and GDP (%)
(% of GDP)
30
Agriculture
25.4
25.6
23.4
23.1
Industry
21.5
20.1
20.0
20.1
15
Manufacturing
16.3
15.2
13.5
13.4
Services
53.1
54.3
56.6
56.8
0
94
95
96
97
98
99
Private consumption
78.7
83.8
86.8
85.9
-15
General government consumption
7.1
7.9
5.6
5.8
GDI
GDP
Imports of goods and services
25.9
22.5
26.9
26.2
1979-89
1989-99
1998
1999
Growth of exports and imports (%)
(average annual growth)
Agriculture
0.7
2.9
3.5
2.2
30
Industry
-0.6
4.2
5.2
4.1
20
Manufacturing
-0.3
2.8
3.6
2.6
Services
0.6
4.6
5.8
3.7
10
Private consumption
0.8
4.3
5.5
3.0
0
General government consumption
2.8
4.5
10.6
4.8
94
95
96
97
98
99
Gross domestic investment
-3.3
5.2
21.9
-4.0
-10
Imports of goods and services
-4.2
9.0
23.0
-1.7
Exports
Imports
Gross national product
0.1
4.2
5.5
3.2
Note: 1999 data are preliminary estimates.
* The diamonds show four key indicators in the country (in bold) compared with its income-group average. If data are missing, the diamond will
be incomplete.

---

Honduras at a glance
9/9/00

Latin
Lower-
POVERTY and SOCIAL

America
middle-
Honduras
& Carib.
income
Development diamond*
1999
Population, mid-year (millions)
6.3
509
2,094
Life expectancy
GNP per capita (Atlas method, US$)
760
3,840
1,200
GNP (Atlas method, US$ billions)
4.8
1,955
2,513
Average annual growth, 1993-99
Population (%)
2.8
1.6
1.1
Labor force (%)
3.8
2.5
1.2
GNP
Gross
per
primary
Most recent estimate (latest year available, 1993-99)
capita
enrollment
Poverty (% of population below national poverty line)
53
..
..
Urban population (% of total population)
52
75
43
Life expectancy at birth (years)
69
70
69
Infant mortality (per 1,000 live births)
36
31
33
Child malnutrition (% of children under 5)
25
8
15
Access to safe water
Access to improved water source (% of population)
65
75
86
Illiteracy (% of population age 15+)
26
12
16
Gross primary enrollment (% of school-age population)
111
113
114
Honduras
Male
110
..
114
Lower-middle-income group
Female
112
..
116
KEY ECONOMIC RATIOS and LONG-TERM TRENDS
1979
1989
1998
1999
Economic ratios*
GDP (US$ billions)
2.3
5.2
5.2
5.4
Gross domestic investment/GDP
26.8
19.1
30.8
32.9
Trade
Exports of goods and services/GDP
36.6
29.0
47.2
42.9
Gross domestic savings/GDP
22.0
13.7
24.6
19.1
Gross national savings/GDP
18.0
9.9
25.3
22.9
Current account balance/GDP
-8.8
-7.9
-5.5
-10.0
Interest payments/GDP
2.7
0.9
3.5
3.2
Domestic
Investment
Total debt/GDP
52.6
65.5
95.3
99.4
Savings
Total debt service/exports
20.5
12.6
18.2
13.4
Present value of debt/GDP
..
..
61.4
..
Present value of debt/exports
..
..
116.2
..
Indebtedness
1979-89
1989-99
1998
1999
1999-03
(average annual growth)
GDP
2.4
3.2
2.9
-1.9
5.3
Honduras
GNP per capita
-0.7
0.8
0.4
-3.9
2.8
Lower-middle-income group
Exports of goods and services
0.5
1.5
0.3
-9.4
9.8
STRUCTURE of the ECONOMY
1979
1989
1998
1999
Growth of investment and GDP (%)
(% of GDP)
30
Agriculture
25.6
21.1
19.2
16.2
Industry
24.4
24.7
30.4
31.9
20
Manufacturing
15.1
15.0
18.6
19.6
10
Services
50.0
54.2
50.4
51.9
0
Private consumption
67.0
72.0
65.3
69.4
94
95
96
97
98
99
-10
General government consumption
10.9
14.3
10.1
11.4
GDI
GDP
Imports of goods and services
41.4
34.4
53.3
56.7
1979-89
1989-99
1998
1999
Growth of exports and imports (%)
(average annual growth)
Agriculture
2.4
2.4
-2.9
-8.7
15
Industry
2.9
3.5
4.2
4.0
10
Manufacturing
3.0
3.8
3.4
2.6
5
Services
2.3
3.5
5.6
-0.2
0
Private consumption
2.8
3.0
3.4
0.8
94
95
96
97
98
99
-5
General government consumption
3.9
-0.6
21.7
10.9
Gross domestic investment
0.0
8.0
2.8
4.7
-10
Imports of goods and services
0.1
3.6
5.9
6.7
Exports
Imports
Gross national product
2.5
3.7
3.3
-1.3
Note: 1999 data are preliminary estimates.
* The diamonds show four key indicators in the country (in bold) compared with its income-group average. If data are missing, the diamond will
be incomplete.

---

Mexico at a glance
8/25/00

Latin
Upper-
POVERTY and SOCIAL

America
middle-
Mexico
& Carib.
income
Development diamond*
1999
Population, mid-year (millions)
97.4
509
573
Life expectancy
GNP per capita (Atlas method, US$)
4,410
3,840
4,900
GNP (Atlas method, US$ billions)
429.6
1,955
2,811
Average annual growth, 1993-99
Population (%)
1.7
1.6
1.4
Labor force (%)
3.0
2.5
2.1
GNP
Gross
per
primary
Most recent estimate (latest year available, 1993-99)
capita
enrollment
Poverty (% of population below national poverty line)
..
..
..
Urban population (% of total population)
74
75
76
Life expectancy at birth (years)
72
70
70
Infant mortality (per 1,000 live births)
30
31
27
Child malnutrition (% of children under 5)
..
8
7
Access to safe water
Access to improved water source (% of population)
83
75
78
Illiteracy (% of population age 15+)
9
12
10
Gross primary enrollment (% of school-age population)
114
113
109
Mexico
Male
116
..
..
Upper-middle-income group
Female
113
..
..
KEY ECONOMIC RATIOS and LONG-TERM TRENDS
1979
1989
1998
1999
Economic ratios*
GDP (US$ billions)
134.5
223.0
416.3
483.7
Gross domestic investment/GDP
26.0
22.9
24.3
23.2
Trade
Exports of goods and services/GDP
11.2
19.0
30.8
30.8
Gross domestic savings/GDP
24.7
22.9
22.3
21.9
Gross national savings/GDP
21.7
20.3
20.5
20.6
Current account balance/GDP
-4.1
-2.6
-3.9
-2.9
Domestic
Interest payments/GDP
2.5
3.5
2.4
1.7
Investment
Savings
Total debt/GDP
31.8
42.1
38.4
34.0
Total debt service/exports
72.4
32.9
19.2
24.6
Present value of debt/GDP
..
..
37.4
33.0
Present value of debt/exports
..
..
111.5
100.4
Indebtedness
1979-89
1989-99
1998
1999
1999-03
(average annual growth)
GDP
1.3
2.9
4.8
3.7
4.9
Mexico
GNP per capita
-0.9
1.1
3.1
2.5
3.2
Upper-middle-income group
Exports of goods and services
8.4
13.6
12.0
13.9
7.4
STRUCTURE of the ECONOMY
1979
1989
1998
1999
Growth of investment and GDP (%)
(% of GDP)
40
Agriculture
9.8
7.8
5.3
5.0
Industry
33.4
29.4
28.5
28.2
20
Manufacturing
22.7
21.9
21.3
21.1
0
Services
56.7
62.9
66.3
66.8
94
95
96
97
98
99
-20
Private consumption
64.4
68.9
67.3
68.0
-40
General government consumption
10.9
8.3
10.4
10.0
GDI
GDP
Imports of goods and services
12.5
19.1
32.8
32.0
1979-89
1989-99
1998
1999
Growth of exports and imports (%)
(average annual growth)
Agriculture
1.2
1.7
0.8
3.5
30
Industry
0.9
3.5
6.3
3.8
15
Manufacturing
1.1
4.0
7.3
4.1
Services
1.8
2.7
4.5
3.6
0
94
95
96
97
98
99
Private consumption
1.4
2.2
5.5
4.3
-15
General government consumption
3.1
1.7
2.2
1.0
Gross domestic investment
-4.3
4.3
9.5
1.5
-30
Imports of goods and services
-1.1
11.9
16.5
12.8
Exports
Imports
Gross national product
1.2
2.9
4.8
4.2
Note: 1999 data are preliminary estimates.
* The diamonds show four key indicators in the country (in bold) compared with its income-group average. If data are missing, the diamond will
be incomplete.

---

Annex 11
Page 1 of 34
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 11
Environmental Assessment1
I.
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
1.
The main goals of the regional MBRS project are to facilitate enhanced protection of vulner-
able and unique marine and coastal ecosystems and to assist the countries of Belize, Guate-
mala, Honduras and Mexico to strengthen and coordinate their national efforts for marine eco-
system conservation and sustainable use. The current draft Project Assistance Document
(PAD) includes support for the following: (i) promote the conservation and sustainable use of
the MBRS; (ii) expand environmental education and awareness; (iii) develop a regionally
compatible ecosystem/biodiversity monitoring program and information system; and (iv)
strengthen regional coordination. The MBRS project is envisioned as a 15-year program con-
sisting of three project phases. The current project is proposed as the program's first five-year
phase.
2.
The general MBRS project area stretches from Isla de Contoy Mexico south along the coasts
of Belize and Guatemala, including the barrier reef and offshore islands, to the Gulf of Hondu-
ras, and then east along the North Coast of Honduras, including the Bay Islands, to the mouth
of the Aguán River (see Map 1). The MBRS includes adjacent marine ecosystems and coastal
watersheds in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico. The inland boundaries of the study
area vary by country and specific locality, but are generally intended to encompass those land
and water resources within the coastal plains and adjacent coastal watersheds. However, as
numerous land and resource utilization and conservation activities are carried out in areas that
affect ecological functions of the MBRS upstream (including agricultural, industrial and resi-
dential/urban uses, wetlands and protected areas), a broader interpretation is used to suffi-
ciently encompass all "significant" threats and related underlying causes that could influence
reef health. The ocean extension of the study area approximates the limits defined by World
Wildlife Fund (WWF) for the Mesoamerican Caribbean Reef EcoRegion (Jorge,1999). These
limits vary from approximately 40 km off the northern coast of the State of Quintana Roo in
Mexico, extending out some 240 km from the apex of the Gulf of Honduras, to approximately
50 km off the North Coast of Honduras at the mouth of the Aguán River and include the Bay
Islands.
3.
In compliance with Global Environmental Facility and World Bank policies, probable and
potential positive and negative impacts of the proposed project should be assessed in order to
ensure the viability of the project interventions. The project has been designated within the
environmental risk category "B", implying potentially moderate risks depending on the design
of project components, for which mitigation measures are readily available and applicable to
control negative environmental impacts. The present document responds to GEF and World
Bank requirements in its analysis of the environmental and social viability of the project de-
sign.
4.
As an integral part of preparation of the project design, a threat and root cause analysis
(TRCA) was carried out to systematically ascertain the nature, location, magnitude and inter-
1 Prepared by Paul Dulin, Environmental Specialist, as consultant to the World Bank.

---

Annex 11
Page 2 of 34
mediate and root causes of current and potential problems affecting the ecological health of
the MBRS.2 The results of this study, including its assessment of transboundary threats, are
used as the principal basis for the EA of the project, along with the analysis of the viability of
project components included in the PAD as supported by relevant documentation.
II.
EXISTING STATUS AND THREATS TO THE MBRS
5.
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS), extending some 1,000 km from the Yucatan
Peninsula to the Bay Islands of Honduras, includes the second longest barrier reef in the
world. The MBRS is unique in the Western Hemisphere for its size, its array of reef types and
the luxuriance of corals. The MBRS stabilizes and protects coastal landscapes, maintains
coastal water quality, sustains species of commercial importance, serves as breeding and feed-
ing grounds for marine mammals, reptiles, fish and invertebrates, and offers employment al-
ternatives and incomes to approximately one million people living in coastal zones adjacent to
the reefs. Associated with the coral reefs of the MBRS are extensive areas of relatively pris-
tine coastal wetlands, lagoons, seagrass beds and mangrove forests that sustain exceptionally
high biodiversity and provide critical habitat for threatened species. The outstanding ecologi-
cal and cultural significance of the MBRS has resulted in the establishment of numerous na-
tional parks and equivalent reserves, with several of these being designated as World Heritage
sites. In the last 20 years, tourism development oriented around the MBRS, especially cruise
ship and diving operations, have dramatically increased foreign exchange contributions to the
four nations gross national products. Other reports commissioned as part of the design phase
for the MBRS project should be reviewed for more specific information concerning marine
and coastal ecology, fisheries and the existence and management of marine and coastal pro-
tected areas.
6.
In 1997, the Presidents of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras signed the Declaration of
Tulum, which recognizes the interrelated nature of the MBRS and the importance to conserve
and sustainably develop its biodiversity and natural resources, and proposes a regional strategy
for its management. In June of 1999, in response to the Declaration of Tulum, the Central
American Commission for Environment and Development (CCAD) approved the final draft of
the MBRS Action Plan. This plan proposes a series of initiatives to be carried out at regional
and national levels to facilitate and coordinate actions aimed at conservation and sustainable
use of MBRS resources, including: improved legislation and regulatory control, land-use
planning in coastal areas, protected areas management, sustainable tourism, institutional
strengthening, and investigation and monitoring.
A.
Ecological Status of the MBRS
7.
The ecological status and the extent of threats to the MBRS is restricted by the lack of infor-
mation across a range of themes. The ecological composition and condition of the principal es-
tuaries, mangroves and lagoons--which are the first-line repositories and buffers of contami-
nation entering the MBRS--are poorly understood. The same situation applies to the ecologi-
cal status of reefs and seagrass beds in proximity to principal drainage outlets to the MBRS.
The location of spawning aggregations and migratory and reproduction habits are poorly
known, as is the status of fish stocks in coastal and open-ocean waters of the MBRS, whether
territorial or international. Similarly, data on industrial, artisanal and sport fisheries catches are
disparate, discontinuous and of questionable validity, since in few cases do they include fish-
2 Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Meso-American Barrier Reef System. Working Paper 1: Threat and Root Cause
Analysis. FAO Investment Centre, FAO/World Bank Cooperative Programme, Rpt No. 00/008 CP-CAM, 10 Feb 2000.

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ing locations. Also, the number of fishing boats of all sizes can only be estimated, since the
permit/licensing process used in most countries is poorly controlled. Consequently, the status
and tendencies of fisheries productivity is poorly understood, and only quantified in reduced
harvests for selected species, especially lobster, conch, shrimp and selected finfish (especially
grouper).
8.
While general information is available on currents and winds in the MBRS, these are based on
scanty sampling and several discontinuous studies. As currents and winds are determinants in
the movement of sediments and organic and inorganic contaminants in the Caribbean, their
correlation with water quality data is a critical need in order to determine the location, magni-
tude and impacts of contaminants entering the MBRS. Some of the more glaring gaps are
those regarding water quality for principal drainages into rivers, bays, estuaries, lagoons and
coastal wetlands that make up the MBRS. It is difficult to assess the static levels of contami-
nation (baseline) to understand if the Western Caribbean is becoming more contaminated or
less with time, if contamination levels are seasonal, and how these relate to the ecological
health of varying elements of the MBRS (for example coral diseases and bleaching, fisheries
productivity and recruitment, algal infestations). Again, the capacity of coastal wetland fea-
tures, estuaries, lagoons and mangroves, as well as fringing, patch and barrier reefs, to absorb
sediments and contaminants needs to be correlated with the volume of inputs of these, as can
be associated with data on water quality.
9.
There have been isolated water quality monitoring activities in coastal areas in Mexico and
Belize, but these have restricted geographical range and are subject to interruptions depending
on the availability of "soft" money from projects. Another program is proposed for the Bay Is-
lands as part of the Environmental Management Program financed by the IDB. Also, while the
general location of industries, ports, industrial agricultural areas, petroleum exploitation areas
and terminals, aquaculture operations, solid waste disposal sites and sanitary sewage discharge
outfalls are known, little is understood about the volume and nature of their wastes and con-
tamination potential. Several land-use studies have been prepared for specific areas in the
MBRS, and at the national level in several of the countries in the region. These, however, are
outdated and are not continuously monitored to gauge changes--especially in regards to land
clearing on shorelines and in mangroves, and the dynamics of deforestation in coastal and
inland watersheds. The lack of a land-capability classification and zoning for terrestrial and
coastal-marine areas of concern in the MBRS restricts an assessment of land-use conflicts in
sensitive areas, inasmuch as their degradation may have an important influence on the health
of the MBRS resources. There are few instances of monitoring the number by sites of tourists
using the MBRS. While gross numbers may exist based on head-counts at airports, these are
only useful at a macro-planning scale and have little use in determining carrying capacities
and points of over-saturation and stress on sensitive sites in the MBRS.
10.
The TRCA study shows that the ecological health of the MBRS is influenced by a broad range
of phenomena, both natural and anthropogenic, and marine and land-based. However, the
dearth of scientific information on even the most basic of biophysical parameters forces re-
source managers, policy makers and international development assistance organizations make
decisions concerning the targeting of investments without an understanding of the real or po-
tential environmental, social and economic impacts on the MBRS. Without a firm foundation
for planning and monitoring of development actions--especially those embracing integrated
coastal resources management, land-use planning and zoning, and sustained resource utiliza-
tion strategies based on known carrying capacities--many of the national- and regional-scale
investments intended to promote conservation and sustainable use of the MBRS are missing
their mark.

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11.
The lack of quantitative information also restricts the present environmental impact assess-
ment, especially in terms of the status and dynamics of ecosystem functions within the MBRS,
as well as pinpointing the origin of certain threats and their manifestations on MBRS re-
sources. However, the proposed project is designed to specifically address these gaps of in-
formation on a regional scale, thus contributing the pool of knowledge needed to address envi-
ronmental problems affecting the MBRS at both national and regional levels.
B.
Threats to the Ecological Health of the MBRS
12.
While severely limited by the lack of scientifically-valid information, the TRCA identified a
series of actions and phenomena that pose current or potential threats to the ecological health
of the MBRS. The term threat is understood to be the agent or vehicle that represents the risk
to the MBRS. Threats were determined based on: (i) known or existing problems, inasmuch as
these represent an activity or phenomenon that is negatively impacting the ecological health
and integrity of the MBRS, whether these are qualitatively or quantitatively substantiated
and/or documented; and (ii) probable or potential problems, as activities or phenomena that
pose negative impacts (risks) to the ecological health and integrity of the MBRS, as these are
perceived based on best-available scientific judgment and the "worst-case scenario" principle.
In the following sections, an overview is presented of the principal categories of threats to the
ecological health and overall integrity of the MBRS, as determined under the TRCA. The in-
termediate and root causes of these threats are analyzed in the TRCA report, which should be
consulted for a more integral understanding of threats to the MBRS.
Inappropriate Coastal/Island Development and Unsustainable Tourism
13.
Land clearing and construction activities for urban, tourism and industrial developments in
coastal areas involve removal of natural vegetation, dredging, filling, channelization and
draining, and sand and coral rock mining in mangroves, dune communities, wetlands, shore-
lines and adjacent areas. These actions can cause changes in local currents and flushing in
bays, onshore and offshore erosion and sedimentation of sea-grass beds, adjacent reefs and
navigation channels, and result in a loss of protection from storms and hurricanes. Coral reefs
grow at slower rates in areas of high sedimentation, and species changes occur in response to
such conditions, with more tolerant coral species found in more highly-sedimented areas, es-
pecially on near-shore patch reefs (Hall, 1994). Similar problems occur with the disturbance of
the Zooxanthellae symbiotic algae, if light restricts their photosynthesis or if impacted by her-
bicides (even in low concentrations), that may die or leave its host corals, resulting in bleach-
ing or death of the latter. Construction can also result in fracturing and stress of terrestrial, ri-
parian, coastal, estuarine and nearby reef ecosystems resulting in changes in composition of
species. As the residential and tourist populations grow, increased consumption of water from
surface and ground water sources (especially on islands) can induce salt intrusion and changes
in ecosystem function, and decrease the availability of local and regional water supply.
14.
Disposal or spills of untreated liquid organic and chemical wastes, whether domestic, indus-
trial, agricultural runoff (including fertilizers and pesticides) or oil or formation waters from
petroleum drilling locations, can cause nutrification and/or chemical contamination of estuar-
ies, bays, wetlands, reefs and sea-grass beds, potentially causing massive kills of, and sub-
lethal impacts to, aquatic organisms in fresh, salt and brackish water environments, and further
affect related trophic chains. Pan American Health Organization reports that only about 10%
of the sewage generated in Central American and Caribbean countries is properly treated
(CEPNET, 1999). The City of Chetumal, for instance, discharges 200 cubic meters of un-
treated sewage into the Bahía de Chetumal each day (Bezaury, 1999). Volumes of raw or
poorly treated sewage of similar or greater magnitude are discharged from urban centers di-

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rectly into coastal waters of the MBRS coast from Belize City, Puerto Cortes, Tela, La Ceiba
and Trujillo. Excess nutrients can result in blue-green algal blooms that compete with symbi-
otic and coral-building alga, and smother coral reefs. Repeated fish kills in the vicinity of Be-
lize City are attributed to effluent from an industrial galvanizing plant (UNEP, 1992). The dis-
posal of solid wastes into coastal rivers, the sea, shorelines and estuaries, impacts fishes and
reef organisms and reduces the aesthetic value of the tourism resources. The combination of
nutrients and chemical contaminants is thought to exacerbate coral diseases and bleaching
and/or stress their recovery.
15.
Many tourist sites are over-saturated with visitors, beyond their carrying capacities, both from
biophysical and management perspectives. Punta Nizuc Reef in Quintana Roo, for example,
has an average of 1,500 snorklers per day arriving on 21 large tour boats and 650 two-seater
jet skis (J. Bezaury, 1999). Improper diving, fishing and recreational activities by tourists and
nearby residents has caused physical and biological damage to island environments, reefs and
beaches. Many of the coastal and marine protected areas are under-financed and exist more
"on paper" than in reality, as monitoring and enforcement actions are deficient. Immigration
induced by the growing tourism service sector and availability of employment opportunities
can lead to the proliferation of poorly planned residential neighborhoods without adequate ba-
sic human services. This can lead to sanitation and human disease problems, the exacerbation
of social problems, and pressure on adjacent natural resources as people of limited economic
means cut mangroves for fuel and building supplies and fish for subsistence and income.
16.
Ever-increasing cruise ship and live aboard tourism, which is predicted to add an additional 20
ships and 2,000,000 passengers to the Caribbean in the year 2000, can produce similar impacts
experienced in urban areas if not regulated. Belize has an average of 3,000 cruise ship and
live-aboard visitors per day (Belize Tourist Board, personal communication, 1999). Pulses of
high numbers of tourists can overtax public services, reduce local food stocks, and generate
vast amounts of solid and liquid wastes that must be accommodated by municipalities in the
MBRS, and present challenges for police. If these ships visit offshore island and coral reef
sites, waste management problems become more acute, and inexperienced and/or unsuper-
vised divers and snorklers may present problems of coral breakage and depredation and un-
controlled fishing.
Inappropriate Inland Resource and Land Use and Industrial Development
17.
Even where industrial and agricultural development may occur at a great distance from coastal
areas, induced sedimentation, especially from the expansion of agricultural activities in upland
watersheds, and contamination from agricultural runoff and the disposal of liquid and solid
wastes of industrial and urban origin, make there way down-river and empty into the MBRS.
The threats as manifested on the resources of the MBRS, including the impacts of sedimenta-
tion and organic and inorganic pollution, are similar to those of coastal development as indi-
cated above, with Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and
Total Suspended Solids (TSS) representing the greatest pollutant loads entering the MBRS.
The most important rivers contributing these contaminants are: the Río Hondo of Mexico;
New River and Belize River in Belize; the Río Motagua of Guatemala and parts of Honduras;
and the Chamelecón, Ulua, Lean and Aguán Rivers on the North Coast of Honduras. Ap-
proximately 2,500 gallons of liquid wastes are discharged from sugar refining and rum distill-
ing operations on the New River in Belize, contributing large organic loads and spent lubri-
cants to the Corozal Bay and Bahía de Chetumal (UNEP, 1992). Of the 380 industries regis-
tered in the Sula Valley, the most industrialized area adjacent to the MBRS and drained pri-
marily by the Río Chamelecón, 150 are reported to have environmentally problematic efflu-
ents (ESA Consultores, 1998), with 50% of these industries have a BOD concentration of

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more than 1,000 mg/l and a Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) in excess of 2,000 mg/l. In late
October 1998, Hurricane Mitch scoured huge quantities of sediment from rivers and sent them
into suspension into the MBRS. Chemical compounds, including chlorinated hydrocarbons
(DDT, aldrin), asphalt and heavy metals, buried after years of deposition in river beds of the
Chamelecón and Ulua Rivers, were washed into lagoons, estuaries and out to sea, adding to
the cumulative chemicals loading of coastal waters of the MBRS.
18.
Additional impacts of deforestation related to land clearing for agricultural expansion in up-
land watersheds, are those of induced changes in hydrological functions as these may relate to
the coast. Reduced infiltration to ground water aquifers can reduce the hydrostatic levels near
coasts and induce salt intrusion on a subregional scale. Also, with less vegetative cover, sur-
face water temperatures are increased and will contribute to warming of seawater, potentially
affecting movement of currents and inducing metabolic changes in aquatic organisms in the
MBRS. Construction of transport infrastructure, beyond the impacts related to land clearing
and disturbance of the hydrological functions in watersheds, also improve access to fragile
coastal areas, as well as upper watersheds and induce immigration, resulting in increased an-
thropogenic activities and spontaneous development, including land clearing, with the afore-
mentioned impacts of deforestation, increased erosion and sedimentation, agricultural runoff
and waste disposal.
Overfishing and Inappropriate Aquaculture Development
19.
Overfishing occurs when artisanal, sport and especially industrial fishers fish in disregard of
regulations pertaining to closed-seasons, closed and protected areas, fishing of spawning ag-
gregations, and with a lack of respect for size and limit/number limitations. These actions in-
terrupt reproductive processes, gradually reducing stocks available for subsequent fisheries,
with resulting reductions in fisheries revenue for local and national economies. Based on the
results of FAO's 1994 Survey of the Wider Caribbean, just over 35% of stocks in the region
were regarded as over-exploited; however 70% of the pelagic stocks and 60% of the demersal
stocks were considered over-exploited. The over-dimensioned fishing fleets, especially in
Honduras where the number of industrial ships was 360 in 1996, places great fishing pressure
on the primary commercial species, especially as these now use more advanced navigation and
fish-finding equipment and some pull as many as four trawling nets. Species under the greatest
pressure are lobster, conch, shrimp and certain species of finfish (esp. grouper and large graz-
ers), for which overall harvests has been reduced by 60-75% based on catch-per-unit-effort, or
CPUE, since 1979 in Honduras and Belize (ESA Consultores, 1998; Rodríguez and Winde-
voxhel, 1998), with similar reductions noted in the rest of the MBRS. Utilization of illegal
equipment and fishing methods, including the use of SCUBA for lobster and conch fishing,
has led to excessive local depredation and reduction in stocks of key commercial species.
Sport fishers and divers glean "trophy" fish from reefs and lagoons, especially jewfish, grou-
pers, kingfish and snook. By-catch of fishing activities, especially with small-sieve nets and
drift-lines, of both marketable and non-marketable species is estimated in the Caribbean at 60-
70% of industrial catches, resulting in important reductions in overall fisheries biomass in the
MBRS. In 1986, unutilized by-catch from the shrimping industry of Honduras was estimated
at 67 million pounds (Foer and Olsen, 1992). The Wider Caribbean region has the highest per-
centage of discards than any other major fishing area world-wide, with shrimp fishing produc-
ing the greater volume of discards (CEPNET, 1999). Shrimp trawlers also disrupt or destroy
important quantities of sea-grass beds and corals.
20.
The burgeoning shrimp farming industry is gaining impetus in Belize and Guatemala. Poor
siting and construction of ponds in areas exposed to storms and floods can introduce exotic
species and diseases into lagoons and other habitats in coastal ecosystems. Similarly, exotic ti-

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lapia species can be accidentally or intentionally introduced in local streams, lagoons and wet-
land areas and compete and/or reduce indigenous fish populations. If shrimp larvae are col-
lected from local beaches, estuaries and lagoons, this could result in reductions in nurseries of
natural stocks, in turn impacting open water shrimp fisheries in the MBRS. Effluent dis-
charged from ponds into coastal waters can induce local nutrification and introduce exotic dis-
eases into local estuarine and reef ecosystems; or the antibiotics used to control diseases may
destroy beneficial bacteria in natural settings. Finally, depending on methods of bio-
prospecting and capture/harvest, certain species of interest could be over-harvested, poten-
tially reducing their populations beyond recovery thresholds, and/or cause interruption to eco-
system functions and trophic chains in localized locations.
Inappropriate Port Management, Shipping and Navigation Practices
21.
More than 90% of commerce in the region is transported by ocean-going ships, making ports
and navigation of high economic development value, but also a focal point for real and poten-
tial threats to the ecological health of the MBRS (Rodríguez and Windevoxhel, 1998). Oil
terminals at Puerto Santo Tomás de Castilla in Guatemala (export and import) and Puerto Cor-
tes and Tela Honduras (import) involve the transport of millions of gallons of petroleum and
derivatives through the MBRS region each month. Two oil tankers carrying a total of 55,000
barrels of fuel visit Belize each month (Foer and Olsen, 1992), while approximately 400,000
metric tons of crude oil are shipped out of Guatemala each month. Ports and jetties construc-
tion and dredging associated with channel and harbor maintenance results in increased suspen-
sion of sedimentation in sea-grass beds and nearby coral reefs stressing and potentially smoth-
ering these, and interrupting photosynthetic processes of corals' symbiotic and other alga. Re-
deposition of sediments may induce changes in coastal morphologic processes resulting in
erosion of beaches, accretion of sediments in navigation channels, estuaries and coastal la-
goons, and may change flows in local currents and flushing of bays and estuaries. Changes in
coastal morphology may reduce defenses against storms and actually instigate more damage
from storm surge and flooding.
22.
Inadequate port management can lead to spills of organic, inorganic and toxic cargoes, includ-
ing fuel, lubricants and bilge waters, which can contaminate coastal waters, potentially
impacting nearby reefs, beaches, bays and estuaries and their resident living organisms. With
the operation of oil terminals (Puerto Santo Tomás de Castilla in Guatemala, Tela and Puerto
Cortés in Honduras), improper transfer of cargoes lead to contamination. Where these involve
offshore transfer docks (Tela), conduits lying on the sea floor may break or leak.
23.
Inappropriate waste management practices on ships and ports, including accidental or inten-
tional dumping of sewage, oily bilge waters, waste oil and solid wastes into open seas, harbors
and bays, can result in nutrification and/or chemical contamination of estuaries, bays, wet-
lands, reefs and sea-grass beds. Most ports have limited facilities to receive solid and liquid
wastes from ships, inducing many to dump their wastes directly into the sea. Puerto Santo
Tomás de Castilla in Guatemala, for instance, receives nearly 5,000 metric tons of solid wastes
annually from ships, even as it has inadequate waste landfill facilities (Fernandez, 1995).
Much of these wastes are dumped in the open air and some making their way back to the
coastal waters and beaches. Such spills can cause fish kills as well as cause sublethal impacts
to aquatic organisms residing in fresh, salt and brackish water, and their related trophic chains.
As solid and liquid wastes float ashore, they foul beaches, represent human health hazards and
reduce aesthetics important to the tourism industry. Finally, accidents such as collisions,
groundings and founder of ships can cause physical damage to reefs, and potentially lead to
complete loss overboard of cargoes and leakage of fuels and lubricants into the sea. Hazardous
cargoes, such as petroleum, chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides, palm oil, radioactive materials

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and similar toxic substances could cause local and subregional catastrophic damage to most all
aspects of coastal ecosystems.
Natural Oceanographic and Climato-Meteorological Phenomena
24.
Oceanographic and climato-meteorological features are permanent phenomena in nature and
only represent threats inasmuch as improperly executed anthropogenic development activities
expose humans and their infrastructure to greater risk. Hence, the intermediate and root causes
do not apply here. Rather, if these phenomena are not considered in planning and implement-
ing development activities, the threats and causes described above can be more acute and
bring about much more negative consequences for the human and natural environments. As
described in Matrix 1, predominating currents and winds tend to influence the transport and
concentration of sediments and contaminants entering the MBRS. The damaging effects of
tropical storms, hurricanes and El Niño/La Niña events (especially floods and storm surges)
are exacerbated through improper development actions practiced in coastal areas and inland
locations. The MBRS receives more than 60 tropical storms per century, with various hurri-
canes hitting Honduras, Belize and Quintana Roo, including Mitch in 1998, Gilbert in 1988,
Greta in 1978, Fifi in 1974 and Hattie in 1961 among the most damaging (Heyman and Kjer-
fve, unpublished).
25.
Coral diseases and bleaching are believed aggravated in areas of high sedimentation and con-
tamination brought about by anthropogenic activities on shore. The bleaching event of 1997-
1998 was perhaps the most damaging to date for the MBRS, with corals from the southern
coast of Quintana Roo through Belize and into the Bay Islands suffering extensive mortality
(Kramer and Kramer, 2000). The same study found that coral diseases were also widespread
in the MBRS, with the highest levels of infestation occurring in back reef areas and patch reefs
in Belize and off the leeward coasts of Cayos Cochinos and the Bay Islands of Honduras.
Also, the rising sea level brought about by global warming will have much greater impacts on
infrastructure built in areas reclaimed from shorelines, wetlands, mangroves and low islands.
Principal Transboundary Issues
26.
The TRCA study yielded an analysis of the principal transboundary issues affecting the eco-
logical health of the MBRS, due primarily to predominating currents and winds found in the
Western Caribbean (see Map 1). There are several major ocean current features affecting the
MBRS: (i) the gyre is strongest during the dry-season months of January to April; (ii) the
principal southeasterly-to-northwesterly Caribbean current generally moves waters off the
northeast coast of Honduras toward the Yucatan Straight east of the counter-clockwise rotat-
ing gyre that roughly encompasses the Gulf of Honduras, from the Bay Islands to Glover's
Reef in Belize; and (iii) seasonal close-shore currents move east to west off the North Coast of
Honduras and the Bay Islands and in to the Gulf of Honduras, until they meet currents flowing
south along the Belizean Coast and tend to mix in the Gulf. The Bahía de Amatique, located at
the westernmost extreme of the Gulf of Honduras, has a semi-closed clockwise circulation in-
fluenced by the meeting of the coastal currents from Honduras and Belize. The Bahía de
Chetumal drains into the border area of Belize and Mexico and near the bifurcation of the Car-
ibbean current, where it mixes with the current flowing south along the Belizean Coast. East-
erly trade winds predominate in the MBRS region, tending to push surface currents into the
Gulf of Honduras and into the coast of Belize. Coastal drainage from the inland and coastal
watersheds of the North Coast of Honduras generally appear to flow toward the Gulf bringing
any suspended sediments and contaminants (and for that matter floating solid wastes). A simi-
lar phenomenon occurs with drainage from the interior and coasts, including drainage from the
Bahía de Chetumal in Mexico and the Corozal Bay in Belize, wherein contaminants flow

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along-shore into the coral lagoon leeward of the barrier reefs and islands of Belize, picking up
drainage from the resort town of San Pedro, then on toward Belize City. Of particular concern
is the Bahía de Amatique wherein sediments and pollutants have a greater residence time and
can adversely affect aquatic organisms. Hence, the Gulf of Honduras and Bahía de Chetumal
are the regional foci for the collection of sediments and contaminants entering the MBRS, as
these are induced by the previously identified threats.
27.
Other transboundary problems include that of uncontrolled cross-border fishing by industrial
and artisanal fishers in restricted areas, during closed season, in spawning aggregations, and
with destructive fishing equipment and practices. The species most at risk are ocean and la-
goon shrimp, lobster, conch and selected finfishes (especially grouper), but depredation also
occurs with manatee and sea turtles. Also, the lack of control of dumping of liquid and solid
wastes by ships at sea and at port facilities has led to degradation of open waters, reefs,
beaches seagrass beds, estuaries and tidal wetlands. The impacts of these activities are espe-
cially noticeable on the leeward sides of the barrier islands of Belize and Bay Islands of Hon-
duras, as well as the Gulf of Honduras. Finally, uncontrolled coastal development and the lack
of contingency planning on the part of all governments in the MBRS region has increased the
damage inflicted by tropical storms and hurricanes, with Hurricane Mitch being the most em-
phatic lesson. These storms destroy coastal infrastructure and buildings, spilling into the sea
vast quantities of solid and liquid wastes, including hazardous chemicals, and organic materi-
als and sediments, contaminating resources throughout the MBRS. The increased exposure
and vulnerability of the coasts due to inappropriate land clearing, dredging and filling has re-
sulted in important losses in the natural coastal defenses that offered better protection against
such storms. Also, the rapid deforestation of inland watersheds has led to increased erosion,
flash flooding and sedimentation.
C.
Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
28.
Each of the countries comprising the MBRS have fairly comprehensive legal frameworks for
protecting the environment and coastal resources, although their application is disparate de-
pending on the productive subsector involved and country. Each of the countries has legisla-
tion requiring environmental impact assessments of development projects in coastal areas,
whether these are urban, residential, industrial, ports or tourism projects. In isolated cases, es-
pecially for Mexico in Cozumel, Chetumal and the Cancun-Tulum Corridor, land-use planning
and zoning has been carried out in coastal areas as means to guide environmentally sound de-
velopment. Compliance with these plans, however, has been irregular with developers varying
from stipulations generating local pressure on coastal resources and presenting new localities
of environmental damage and contamination. Land-use planning is almost non-existent in
Guatemala and Honduras, although programs have been proposed for coastal Guatemala and
the Bay Islands, the latter being financed under the Bay Islands Environmental Management
Program by IDB.
29.
Also, each of the countries is signatory to many of the international and regional conventions
and treaties which were ratified to encourage and facilitate the countries' adherence to interna-
tional standards of environmental protection of marine and coastal resources. The lack of ac-
tion of the countries comprising the MBRS on many, if not most, of these conventions and
treaties complicates regional efforts to conserve and promote sustainable use of the MBRS.
Both the international conventions and national legal/regulatory frameworks provide a basis
for qualifying many of the root and intermediate causes. That is, the lack of compliance with
existing international and regional protocols, and national and municipal regulations, norms
and standards is, in itself, an intermediate cause of many of the impacts manifested in the
MBRS by the specific anthropogenic actions associated with the threats. Comprehensive list

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of national laws and regulations, as well as international and regional conventions and treaties,
are provided in the TRCA report.
D.
Regional and National-Level Projects and Programs
30.
Of direct importance to the current MBRS project design are several regional and national ini-
tiatives dealing with the MBRS and coastal and reef resources (comprehensive lists of projects
and programs are provided in the TRCA report). The coastal resources management compo-
nent of the Regional Environmental Project for Central America, PROARCA-COSTAS, is co-
financed by USAID with matching funds provided by international NGOs The Nature Con-
servancy (TNC), Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the University of Rhode Is-
land/Coastal Resources Center (URI/CRC). The project supports capacity building and em-
powerment of local communities in the development of strategies for the sustainable use of
coastal resources focusing on pilot areas in Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. A new regional
initiative, Conservation of the Mesoamerican Caribbean Reef Ecoregion, is being coordinated
by WWF and focuses on the biological assessment of the MBRS region and determining pri-
ority interventions for treating root causes to resource degradation from a bio-diversity con-
servation perspective. Both of these projects complement the Mesoamerican Biological Corri-
dor Initiative spearheaded by CCAD. There are numerous ongoing international and regional
programs providing technical assistance in coastal resources assessment, monitoring and ca-
pacity building. These include the Caribbean Coastal Marine Productivity Program
(CARICOMP) and the UNEP-coordinated Caribbean Environment Program (CEP). Also, the
Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, operating through its Caribbean Sub-node is sup-
ported by various international and regional organizations with local coral reef monitoring car-
ried out with GO and NGO staffs in all four MBRS countries. The Intergovernmental Oceano-
graphic Commission/Subcommission for the Caribbean is coordinating support to countries in
the Wider Caribbean Region to ratify and adopt actions under the protocols of the Cartagena
Convention and supports scientific research, training and monitoring of oceanographic, fisher-
ies and biological diversity parameters. There are also various projects under preparation with
financing from the GEF, World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, UNDP, GTZ,
USAID, DANIDA and other bi- and multilaterals directed to objectives of conservation of
coastal and marine resources. There is currently a GEF Block B grant to develop the Gulf of
Honduras Maritime Pollution Control Project with IDB support.
31.
At the national level, several projects stand out due to their direct relevance to the MBRS (see
Annex 3 for the lists of projects and programs in each of the participating countries). There are
various small projects related to protected areas (PAs) management of both marine and coastal
and near-coastal protected areas, supported by local and international NGOs and private enti-
ties, national and state governments, and bilateral and multilateral funding, including GEF,
World Bank, IDB and USAID. Particular projects of interest are: the Southern Quintana Roo
Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (Amigos de Sian Ka'an, University of Quintana
Roo, USAID); Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Barrier Reef Complex of Belize
(Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute, UNDP/GEF); the Trinational Alliance for
Conservation of the Gulf of Honduras (currently developing new project initiatives) supported
by PROARCA/COSTAS; and the Bay Islands Environmental Program (Honduran Tourism
Institute, IDB) and Sustainable Coastal Tourism Planning and Management Project (Honduran
Tourism Institute, FUNDEMUN, GEF/World Bank, currently in design), both in Honduras.

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E.
Public Participation in the Design of the Project and Assessment of Potential Impacts of
Project Implementation
32.
During the design phase of the project, stakeholders were consulted across employing a vari-
ety of approaches. Three regional project-planning workshops brought together members of
the National Barrier Reef Committees of each country. These committees are comprised of
representatives of government agencies responsible for themes related to the MBRS (including
natural resources management, environmental protection, protected areas management and
fisheries), NGOs active in coastal and marine areas, and representatives or private industry
(especially tourism). These same workshops included invitees from community-based organi-
zations, including Garífuna fishing villages from Honduras, Guatemala and Belize. Work-
shops permitted interchange of ideas and interests concerning the values placed on MBRS re-
sources and current economic and cultural uses. Wide participation of stakeholders in work
groups and plenary sessions enriched the design process and helped focus regional priorities.
33.
The TRCA study, which is used as the principal basis for this EA, involved numerous consul-
tations with members of the National Barrier Reef Committees within their own countries in
order to assess national priorities and comprehend the outreach and activities of projects and
programs being implemented within each country. Similarly, contact made with representa-
tives of regional and international projects provided a basis for avoiding duplication and pro-
motion of synergistic approaches for regional cooperation with existing projects. The results
of the study were used in the preparation of the final project design and current EA. It should
be mentioned here that all stakeholders consulted opined that the MBRS project would have
important positive environmental and social impacts for the MBRS region.
Iii.
Mbrs Project Description
34.
The project design proposes four principal components to treat many of the aforementioned
threats to the ecological health of the MBRS. A brief description of each component is pre-
sented below.
A.
Marine Protected Areas Management Component
35.
This component will be limited to a total of 15 marine protected areas (MPAs)3, nine of which
already have some legal protection, and six others which are in different stages of the process
of legal creation. Criteria for selection of the MPAs included in the project were based on the
significance of the protected area with respect to contributing to MBRS ecosystem characteris-
tics, diversity and processes. The majority of the MPAs (9) are located in the two priority
transboundary areas of the MBRS identified during the TRCA study--the Chetumal Bay area
(Mexico/Belize), and the Gulf of Honduras (Belize/Guatemala/Honduras). The remaining
MPAs included were selected to ensure a spatially dispersed pattern of MPAs loosely connect-
ing the two transboundary areas. By the end of the project, the MBRS will have established a
minimally-acceptable number and geographic coverage of well managed MPAs in the MBRS
region, which will serve as regional models from which expansion and replication could occur
in the program's possible future phases. The component consists of two sub-components: (i)
planning, management, and monitoring of marine protected areas; and (ii) institutional
strengthening.
3 MPAs include coastal and marine extensions.

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Sub-component A: Planning, Management, and Monitoring of Marine Protected Areas (MPA)
36.
The objective of this sub-component is to strengthen conservation measures in existing inter-
nationally-significant MPAs and to support the creation, planning, and initial development of
a limited number of new MPAs in the MBRS region. Emphasis will be placed on supporting
investments that should result in immediate improvements in MPA protection and manage-
ment while increasing the probability of achieving long-term sustainability of management ef-
forts. Specific activities to be supported through this sub-component of the project are indi-
cated below.
Establishment of ecological and socioeconomic MPA data baselines and monitoring
37.
In anticipation of the preparation of MPA management and operational plans, rapid evalua-
tions of basic ecological and socioeconomic factors and conditions, including legal and policy
analyses and land tenure issues, will be carried out for each MPA included in the project's first
phase. In addition to providing the necessary information to prepare the aforementioned man-
agement and operational plans, selected indicators reflecting baseline conditions will be moni-
tored over time using simple methods that can be applied by MPA staff. An international con-
sultant, working with the staff of the respective MPA management agency together with local
scientists, will assist in carrying out rapid assessments and in the establishment of baseline
conditions for each MPA. A regional expert meeting will be held to review the initial results
of these assessments and to devise a monitoring methodology appropriate for park staff to pe-
riodically assess the "health" of MPA ecosystems and gauge the effectiveness of project-
supported management efforts. This activity will help determine to what extent MPAs are
meeting their expressed goal of contributing to the maintenance and recovery of the health, di-
versity, and productivity of the marine and coastal ecosystems of the MBRS area.
Development of management plans and financial strategies for MPAs
38.
For four MPAs (Corozal Bay, Gladden Spit, Sarstoon-Temash, and Omoa-Baracoa), new
long-term (10-year) management plans will be prepared. In each management plan, financial
strategies will be formulated specifying existing and potential revenue generation alternatives
and include the identification of local and international funding sources. In addition, two-year
operational plans, providing greater detail and specific budgets, will be prepared for each
MPA and updated annually. Under this activity, funds will be provided for local and interna-
tional consultants, participatory workshops, preparation, publication and dissemination of
management and operational plans, as well as for posters including MPA maps and plan ex-
ecutive summaries. For the eleven remaining existing and proposed MPAs, long-term man-
agement plans either exist or are currently in preparation. Short-term technical assistance will
be provided to evaluate the success to date of plan implementation, review and harmonize
planning methodologies, and periodically evaluate the efficacy of plan implementation. Where
needed, two-year operational plans will also be prepared and updated annually.
Provision of basic equipment and infrastructure
39.
This activity supports the purchase of the basic equipment and infrastructure in each MPA
needed to facilitate the planning process, enhance administrative capacity, and allow MPA
staff to rapidly implement the priority measures outlined in the aforementioned operational
plans. While specific investments will be finalized according to priority needs identified in
each operational plan, likely equipment and infrastructure for the two regional MPA com-
plexes (the Xcalak/Bacalar Chico, and Sarstoon-Temash/Sarstún) situated in the Mexico-
Belize and Belize-Guatemala transboundary areas, respectively and Utila Island (Honduras)

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will include: boats, motors, and motorcycles; dive equipment; mooring and marker buoys;
ranger stations; and public use facilities (visitor centers, signage, trails, and composting toi-
lets). For the remaining 10 MPAs, a basic package of computer hardware, software and pe-
ripherals as well as communications equipment (base and mobile radios, batteries and charg-
ers), GPS units, and basic office furniture will be provided.
Transboundary cooperation in policy, protection, and management of MPAs
40.
Most of the MPAs selected to receive support under the project are located on or in proximity
to international borders. Many of the threats and root causes faced by these MPAs cannot be
resolved through unilateral national efforts. Current issues in need of effective bi- and tri-
national management responses include management of migratory fish and wildlife stocks,
addressing cross-border infractions of existing laws, and the conservation and management of
trans-frontier parks. Under this activity, funds will be reserved to facilitate regular meetings of
the field and supervisory staff of MPA management agencies in the Bay of Chetumal and Gulf
of Honduras transboundary areas, respectively. It is expected that these meetings and the re-
sulting dialogue and decisions will provide the eventual basis for formalizing the process lead-
ing to the joint co-management of relevant MPAs in these and other transboundary areas.
Sub-component B: Institutional Strengthening
41.
To address the substantial institutional building needs in the region, training courses and
workshops for protected area directors, technical staff, rangers, and key collaborators from lo-
cal and national government agencies, collaborating NGOs, and local communities, will be
supported under this sub-component. Courses will be from two to three weeks in duration, and
will be held preferably at or in proximity to MPAs selected to receive management and plan-
ning assistance through the project. Training libraries providing basic information on all as-
pects of marine protected area management will be established or improved in all MPAs with
sufficient staff infrastructure in the MBRS area. Specific activities to be supported through
this sub-component of the project include the following activities.
Training courses and workshops
42.
Training events to be supported through the project include the following:
Management planning for MPAs (two events @ three weeks each, for MPA managerial staff and
senior government, university, and NGO staff)
Basic training for MPA rangers (two events @ three weeks each)
Principles of MPA management (two events @ three weeks each, for midlevel and para-
professional staff of MPA management agencies and collaborators)
Development of MPA financial strategies (two events @ two weeks each, for supervisory staff at
MPAs and responsible government agencies and NGOs)
Administration of MPAs (two events @ two weeks each, for mid-level and senior staff of MPAs
and management agencies)
Community relations (two events @ two weeks each, for mid-level and supervisory MPA staff
and community leaders, collaborating NGOs and municipal representatives)
MPA public use and tourism programs (two events @ three weeks each, for MPA public use pro-
gram personnel, tourism institute staff, and local entrepreneurs and community association repre-
sentatives)

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Training library development
43.
In addition to supporting regional training events, the project will also provide a basic stan-
dardized training library to all MPA headquarters and ranger stations throughout the MBRS
region (approximately fifty offices). This would facilitate continual professional improvement
for MPA field staff who often lack even minimal access to training manuals, natural history
publications, best-practices/management guides and other books on themes relevant to MPA
management programs.
B.
Regional Environmental Information System Component
44.
Developing and providing access to relevant environmental data from the region is a critical
element toward promoting the regional perspective and consensus required for management of
the MBRS as an integrated ecological system. The establishment of a regional environmental
information system (EIS) will provide an essential tool required for organized data manage-
ment and decision support. Moreover, a regional EIS can be used interactively with other pro-
ject components serving both as a recipient of and source for data with the MPA, Sustainable
Use, and Public Education and Awareness project components.
45.
In the program's initial phase, the objective of the EIS component will be to provide the basic
framework to guide data collection, processing, distribution and utilization in support of pro-
moting improved management of the MBRS. Specifically, the component will provide support
for the design and implementation of a bi-lingual EIS whose architecture will allow broad ac-
cess to policy makers, technicians, and the public at large. While the establishment of an EIS
will be a major product of the initial phase of the MBRS program, it nevertheless should be
viewed as a "living" system that will grow in complexity and value as new data are developed
and are made accessible. The component consists of the following two sub-components: (i)
creation and implementation of an MBRS regional environmental information system; and ii)
establishment of an integrated synoptic MBRS monitoring program.
Sub-component A: Creation and Implementation of a Distributed, Web-based EIS
46.
Under this sub-component, a web-based EIS will be established which will include basic envi-
ronmental data for reefs and adjacent waters in the MBRS region, outflows for selected water-
sheds, and accessible local and regional monitoring data, including data that form part of
broader-scale programs such as CARICOMP and CPACC. Specific activities to be supported
through this sub-component of the project are described below.
Equipment support
47.
Through this activity, the project will support the purchase of equipment, software, and the
costs associated with gaining access to the Web required to implement a distributed, web-
based, bilingual EIS. The EIS will consist of two tiers: a primary technical tier accessible to all
participating data nodes, and a secondary, publicly accessible tier providing information on
the MBRS--the latter in support of the project's public education and other components. The
provision of equipment and training will be conditional on a commitment by each national
node agency to participate fully in the EIS by providing staff resources to maintain data and
links to the EIS, and by making data available through the system according to previously
agreed procedures.

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Meta-database establishment
48.
This activity will support the construction of a comprehensive meta-database, a regional bibli-
ography, and a core of legacy databases which will be maintained by a component-supported
regional office which will also be responsible for maintaining the web-based EIS structure and
the publicly accessible information tier. At minimum, baseline geo-referenced maps, and first-
cut distributions of major watersheds, coastal water masses, and broad habitat types in shallow
waters will be included in the EIS. Much of these data will have to be generated by appropri-
ate node agencies at the national level and/or the regional office. The meta-database will also
be designed with hyperlinks to other relevant national, regional and international scientific re-
search, training and technical project websites to facilitate further more specific searches and
research by theme and geographic location.
Information dissemination
49.
The dissemination of information (electronically and in print) on the results stemming from
monitoring and other activities being undertaken to gauge and manage the environmental
"health" of the MBRS will be supported through the distribution of hard and digital copies of
tabular and georeferenced data, research and monitoring reports, training opportunities and
relevant archival information. The project will maintain a E-mailing list of interested and rele-
vant organizations and institutions, as well as offer periodic bibliographies and reports in
hardcopy to be made available at national node agencies and the regional project office in Be-
lize.
Training
50.
The activity will support a coordinated series of intensive, in-country training workshops de-
signed to build node agency skills in GIS and data management. Participant skills will also be
strengthened in: (i) the design of monitoring programs that will support improved decision-
making; (ii) the interpretation of remotely sensed data; and (iii) the statistical analysis of
monitoring data including "reference condition" and other advanced techniques. All participat-
ing agencies will have a role in the development of the training program to target their respec-
tive institutional needs.
Technical support
51.
In support of the creation and implementation of the EIS, a small regional office composed of
2 technical specialists (an environmental monitoring specialist and an information technolo-
gist) and a set of national node agencies (at least one per country) will be established through
this activity. The regional office will coordinate the development and operation of the EIS,
maintain baseline and legacy data, and manage the publicly accessible information database.
Sub-component B: Establishment of an Integrated Synoptic MBRS Monitoring Program
52.
The MBRS can be viewed as consisting of a number local reef structures surrounded by water
and embedded in a mosaic of inter-linked ecosystems. The ecological linkages between reefs,
other marine environments, and coastal watersheds, are mediated, partially or entirely, by wa-
ter flow. However, despite the importance of water currents in transporting nutrients, pollut-
ants, and reproductive products across ecosystem and national boundaries, there is a dearth of
data on the region's current regime and its influence on the status and processes of MBRS
reefs and other critical ecosystems. Nor is there sufficient information related to the complex
patterns of reproduction, larval dispersal, and recruitment of corals, fish, and other important

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reef components; patterns which depend on the complex interaction of water flow and larval
behavior.
53.
Under this sub-component, a regional monitoring program for the collection of synoptic data
on physical oceanography (surface currents) and ecological connections among and between
reefs and adjacent ecosystems (including coastal watersheds) will be implemented. In the ini-
tial phase of the program, the geographic emphasis of the monitoring activities will be in the
two transboundary areas of the MBRS. Criteria for the identification of specific monitoring
locations will include: presence of biodiversity-rich ecosystems; importance of the areas as
sources or sinks for recruitment of corals, fish, or other important community components;
and presence and degree of threat associated with pollution stemming from onshore activities.
In addition to the sites in the two transboundary areas, an additional 5 or 6 sites will be sup-
ported at strategic locations selected for their value in contributing to a more complete under-
standing of the ecological processes that characterize the MBRS. Monitoring activities will be
planned and designed in association with the MBRS MPA monitoring activity described
above, to ensure technical coherence and operational efficiency between the two activities.
Specific activities to be supported under this sub-component are described below.
Baseline assessment and monitoring program
54.
This activity will support the preparation of an MBRS environmental baseline. In order to ini-
tiate the preparation of the baseline at the project inception, an integrated summary of present
knowledge will be assimilated concerning the ecology of the MBRS based on currently avail-
able information on current regime, patterns of pollution risk, interconnection of locations and
habitats within the region, and ecosystem state and dynamics. The results of the assessment
will be presented at an initial planning workshop of the sub-component's Technical Working
Group (TWG) in PY 1. Based on the results of the study, it will be the task of the TWG to de-
velop a detailed proposal for a regional monitoring study of surface current patterns, water
quality, and reef community dynamics to include coral and fish recruitment.
55.
The monitoring study will be supported by ancillary field studies designed to characterize the
biotic communities and laboratory analyses. Annual coral reef assessments, using the field
survey carried out in association with the current MBRS project design as a baseline4, will be
instituted beginning in PY1 and continue through the life of project. This site-specific moni-
toring will provide latitudinal data concerning the ecological health of the reefs, especially in
reference to coral diseases, bleaching, recovery rates and mortality. A key input into the moni-
toring program will be flow and water quality monitoring at Rio Hondo and New River, and at
Motagua, Chamelecón, and Ulúa rivers and an assessment of their importance as outlets for
sediments and agro-chemicals and other bioactive compounds that may affect the "health" of
the reefs, as correlated with annual reef assessments. An additional input will be the comple-
tion of a risk analysis using satellite imagery of river flood plumes, and/or analysis of off-
shore sediments derived from terrigenous materials, to identify those reef communities that are
most at risk to river-borne pollutants. A key output will be the development of a hydrody-
namic model of surface currents near the end of the first phase of the project. In addition to
equipment and logistical support, this activity will support the contracting of highly-technical
specialists to assist in the identification of sources of recruited larvae, the collection and con-
duct of sensitive chemical analyses of water quality, and developing a hydrodynamic surface
flow model for the region.
4 Kramer and Kramer. Ecological Status of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System: Impacts of Hurricane Mitch and 1998
Coral Bleaching. Final Report to the World Bank. University of Miami/RSMAS. January 2000.

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Targeted research
56.
Water quality issues are likely to be monitored more effectively if a simple but reliable set of
bio-monitors could be identified for water quality. While a number of simple bio-monitors
have been tried in coral reef systems in the past, none have yet gained widespread acceptance
and use. This activity would support the development of one or more simple, inexpensive bio-
monitoring indicators for water quality that could be applied routinely to monitor coral reef
habitat in the region. By using identified variations in water quality at monitored sites, it will
be possible to use field experiments to evaluate the precision and reliability of different bio-
monitoring techniques. Once a technique has been developed and verified in the field, it would
be integrated into the MPA monitoring activity.
C.
Promotion of Sustainable Uses of the MBRS Component
57.
The objective of the component is to provide relevant information and assistance to decision-
makers and managers of productive sectors dependent on the MBRS so that adverse impacts
of their activities are minimized and productivity is enhanced. The component seeks to facili-
tate necessary incentives to stakeholders contributing to the sustainability of resources and the
economic activities that depend on them. The component is designed to identify those techni-
cal, social and institutional interventions that will enhance the conditions and opportunities for
rational use of the resources of the MBRS. Component activities will initially focus on the two
most significantly important and potentially harmful economic sectors dependent on the
MBRS, fishing and tourism, under the following sub-components.
Sub-component A: Promote Sustainable Fisheries Management.
58.
There are strong indications that several commercial species of finfish, crustacea and mollusks
are either fully or over-exploited throughout the MBRS region. These species represent an im-
portant source of income for thousands of families throughout the MBRS region and popula-
tion levels need to be maintained to reduce the risk of possible economic and social loss.
59.
Many of these same species play key functional roles in the reef ecosystem and their popula-
tions must be maintained at reproductively viable threshold levels. Despite the importance of
the resource, sustainable management objectives for most of these species have rarely been
achieved in the region; a situation attributed largely to a lack of awareness (among policy
makers, resource managers and fishers), poor education, conflicts among user groups in the
coastal zone, and minimum research capacity in the MBRS region. This sub-component will
address this issue by supporting the following activities.
Determination of spawning aggregation sites
60.
This activity will present clear scientific bases and recommendations to be considered in the
formulation of a regional policy promoting the sustainable use and management of these sites
which will be developed through the appropriate fora. This activity will facilitate the collec-
tion and analysis of scientific and anecdotal information documenting the location of these
sites, their ecological and socioeconomic importance, and the production of a regional map in-
dicating exact geographical location, dimension, and status of exploitation (by fishing and
other activities). In this assessment, priority shall be given to the following commercially im-
portant species: Nassau grouper, the mutton snapper, the yellowtail snapper and the hogfish.
This activity will be conducted in PY1, and will require the services of two specialists with
expertise in the ecology of spawning aggregations and in the development of marine fisheries

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policy, respectively, with emphasis given to the establishment of conservation areas (MPAs)
to protect selected species during annual spawning events.
Monitoring
61.
This is a follow-up activity to the mapping of fish aggregation sites with the objective of
monitoring the status of aggregation sites in the MBRS region over a three-year period (PY2 -
PY4). Visual surveys using underwater video will be used to estimate changes in aggregation
size, sex ratios, species composition and social behavior. Exact geographical location and the
physical extent of the aggregation will be monitored using GPS. Support in the form of
equipment needed for the monitoring of basic fisheries activities (cameras, GPS units, nets,
calipers, balances, snorkling gear, microscopes, etc.) will be provided to national project part-
ners in PY2.
Sustainable fisheries management
62.
Assistance in building regional research capacity will be provided in the form of training,
technical assistance and equipment. The design and establishment of a regional fisheries data
collection and management system will be completed in PY2. This activity will review exist-
ing fisheries data collection systems in the region, determine the feasibility of modifying them
to suit MBRS needs, and produce a suitable regional fisheries data collection and management
system for the MBRS, using customized software and development of a users' manual. This
system must be compatible with the MBRS EIS to be established under the project. A 3-day
regional workshop will be held in PY2 to obtain country endorsement of the data collection
system as well as training in its use. Copies of the software, users' manual, computers and
printers will be provided to the four countries in an effort to initiate immediate use of the new
data collection system. In addition to training in traditional data collection system approaches
and on a pilot basis, this activity will support an 8-day training workshop, during PY2, to fa-
cilitate application in all four countries of ECOPATH and ECOSIM data modeling programs.
These programs employ an ecosystems approach, as opposed to traditional species-specific
methods.
63.
An assessment of the socioeconomic interrelationships between fishing and other user groups
within the coastal zone of the MBRS will be conducted in PY2. This assessment will identify
positive relationships as well as conflicts between fishers and other user groups, and will rec-
ommend guidelines for enhancing positive and mutually-beneficial relationships as well as
conflict resolution measures.
64.
Regional and follow-up national training for fishers, government officials and members of
NGOs in co-management techniques will be conducted in PY2 and PY3. This activity will in-
troduce the topic of co-management and will lay the groundwork for the involvement of
stakeholders in the management of coastal resources. Professional peer exchange and hands-
on training in specific skills will be provided to technicians working in fisheries management
within the MBRS. These training will be conducted in PY2, PY3, PY4, PY5 and will make
available trained technicians to the region at a faster rate than long-term degree programs.
Promotion of sustainable livelihoods
65.
During PY2 and PY3, this activity will support vocational training of fishers located in the
two priority transboundary areas in alternative economic activities. Training should impart to
fishers the capacity needed to diversify from fishing into more sustainable income-generating

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activities including, but not limited to, kayaking, sport-fishing, tour-guiding, dive mastering,
naturalist and similar vocations.
Sub-component B: Facilitation of Sustainable Coastal and Marine Tourism
66.
Tourism is the world's fastest growing industry. Tourist arrivals to the Central America sub-
region represented the highest average annual percentage growth increase within the Americas
region over the past three years. A large part of this growth is in nature-based tourism, relying
on the amenities or attractions of the Caribbean Basin's unique marine environment. The
MBRS still boasts some of the least spoiled coastal profiles and some of the most outstanding
underwater experiences in the Caribbean. However, in the absence of adequate environmental
management guidelines or regulatory regimes, proliferation of traditional sea and sun tourism
in parts of the region (Cancun, in particular) has occurred often at a significant ecological and
socioeconomic cost. There is a critical need to stimulate an on-going policy dialogue and fa-
cilitate specific actions necessary to ensure sustainable tourism principles and practices are
implemented through regional cooperation.
67.
The objective of this sub-component is to formulate and facilitate application of policy guide-
lines and best practice models for sustainable coastal and marine tourism in the four countries
of the MBRS. The desired outcome is to provide and disseminate examples which demon-
strate how to minimize the adverse impacts of tourism and enhance its potential beneficial ef-
fects on coastal/marine habitats and resources and on human communities located near tour-
ism destinations. Actions proposed are integrally-linked to the objectives and activities pro-
posed under the other three components of the MBRS project. The following activities are
planned over the initial five-year phase of the project.
Regional policy dialogue and cooperative action forum
68.
To facilitate a tourism policy that provides helpful direction for local MPA protection, senior
government officials and their tourism industry counterparts need to be better informed about
critical coastal and marine tourism issues and problems. Initially, this activity will focus on
obtaining tourism industry commitment and NGO support for the government to implement
workable environmental impact assessment, inspection and enforcement systems for coastal
land and marine uses. Planning guidance will also be provided to develop innovative tour/trip
circuits which "package" and market marine parks together nationally and regionally (e.g.,
Wildlife Conservation Society's Regional Trails Project or marine ecotourism associated with
an MPA in a priority transboundary area such as the Xcalak/Bacalar Chico or Sarstoon-
Temash/Sarstún). This activity will also provide support for an annual forum to facilitate: (i)
developing consensus on a regional strategy and priority actions; (ii) selection of at least one
specific priority regional cooperation issue and action agenda to address each year; (iii) draft-
ing, adoption and dissemination of achievable action plans; (iv) implementation and follow-up
through technical assistance, training and/or collaborative activities; and (v) monitoring and
evaluation of outcomes.
Catalogue of exemplary practices
69.
Voluntary codes of conduct in critical segments of the coastal and marine tourism industry
need to be considered and adopted by tourism-related businesses. International and regional
organizations have invested considerable resources in developing sustainable tourism guide-
lines and codes of conduct (for example USAID-supported sustainable tourism efforts in
Quintana Roo and the UNEP's Caribbean Environment Program). This activity will support
an extensive literature search and interviews with sustainable tourism experts, from which

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"good practices" will be identified and adapted for use in the MBRS region. A catalogue of
"exemplary practices" for sustainable coastal tourism will be developed and disseminated
widely in the region through print and the project's website.
Regional environmental certification program
70.
Under this activity, a region-wide, independent environmental certification program will be
established for coastal and marine tourism operations in key sub-sectors (e.g., hotel/resort fa-
cilities, diving operations, yachting and live-aboards, ecolodges, cruise ship tours on land).
This program will include: (i) agreement on a strategy and steps for certification, including
performance based standards for environmental certification/ecolabeling; (ii) formulation and
adoption of an independent certification and marketing system that positions the MBRS region
as one of the world's leading sustainable tourism destinations; (iii) provision of resources for
establishment of the program on a pilot basis in high priority transboundary tourism destina-
tions linked to one or more MPAs; and (iv) development and adoption of a plan for expanding
and financing the certification system (for instance, fee for service, cooperative marketing to
the green market). Efforts will be made to create cost-effective linkages and cooperative ac-
tivities with other on-going certification (for example, programs sponsored by the Caribbean
Action for Sustainable Tourism).
Marine tourism exemplary practices study tour
71.
This tour will be designed to provide an opportunity for a number of "emerging" marine-
focused travel and ecotourism operators (those who are not fully market-ready, or are just
starting to market their product) to learn, exchange information, and network with successful
businesses in their field. A two week marine tourism exemplary practices study tour will be
designed to network and share ideas with 5 or 6 established and leading adventure travel, ma-
rine travel and ecotourism operators in Central America. Throughout the tour, experts will
conduct seminars on a number of topics, including product development, marketing strategies,
environmental conservation and management, partnering with the travel trade, packaging, and
market research. Materials will be prepared on environmental practices, community involve-
ment, conservation financing and interpretation. A technical report will also be drafted and
widely disseminated to the tourism industry, interested NGOs and government officials
through print and the project website in order to share lessons learned, case examples and pit-
falls to avoid.
D.
Environmental Education and Public Awareness Component
72.
A major cause underlying threats to the MBRS as identified in the threat and root cause analy-
sis in support of MBRS project preparation was the lack of public education and awareness
concerning the environmental, social and economic significance of the MBRS, and issues that
need to be addressed to ensure its sustainability. A critical element to developing the political
will and policies required to manage the MBRS is building sufficient public support to cata-
lyze change. The objective of the environmental education and public awareness component is
to increase environmental awareness among a variety of stakeholders and promote the devel-
opment of human capacity to change practices that are detrimental to the MBRS.
Sub-component A: Development of an Environmental Awareness Campaign
73.
Under this sub-component, the general public's awareness of the importance of the MBRS as a
"world class" resource and the need to promote its conservation and sustainable use will be
enhanced. This will be carried out by supporting development of a broad-based public aware-

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ness campaign using printed and audio-visual messages that will be disseminated through
general media and at public gatherings. Activities under the sub-component include the fol-
lowing.
Establishment of a database and information "clearinghouse"
74.
MBRS project staff and consultants will gather published and unpublished materials and me-
dia resources located within and beyond the region with relevance o MBRS objectives. These
will be entered into a database and made available through the MBRS project website. A cata-
log of MBRS reference materials will be promoted via all printed and audio-visual materials
produced by the project. Also, relevant materials in support of the environmental education
sub-component will be reproduced and distributed to target users/audiences.
Public awareness campaign strategy
75.
A public awareness campaign strategy will be developed through a series of meetings and in-
terviews with key stakeholders in the four MBRS countries. It will be implemented on a na-
tional basis and will focus on the value and need for conservation of the shared resources of
the MBRS.
Development and dissemination of information materials
76.
In support of the campaign, printed and audio-visual materials will be produced and dissemi-
nated by project staff and associated stakeholders. Materials will be produced in English,
Spanish and, in some cases, Garífuna and will include: brochures, posters, and comic books
(five of each); videos (three, each of which can be excerpted for television spots); and radio
spots (four). A graphic designer will create a logo to be identified with MBRS conservation
and sustainable use, and other materials to be used to generate public awareness. Two one-day
seminars for National Barrier Reef Committees and mass media representatives will be held in
each of the four countries to promote the project and disseminate printed and audio-visual ma-
terials
Sub-component B: Formal and Informal Education
77.
The objective of this sub-component is to increase knowledge and promote changes in atti-
tudes and behavior towards the conservation and sustainable use of the MBRS, with particular
focus in the transboundary areas, through the strengthening of formal and informal environ-
mental education programs. Students at primary and secondary school levels will be educated
about the significance of MBRS and the need to promote sustainable management practices.
Assistance will be provided through creation and/or adaptation of curriculum materials for
students, as well as teachers' guides and teacher training to ensure successful use. The sub-
component will contribute to non-formal education of professionals in industry and tourism
sectors that directly affect MBRS resources, and/or for community leaders who maintain
strong influence on MBRS stakeholders. This will be carried out through a series of work-
shops in which participants will be exposed to examples of "best practices" in the sector and
learn how to improve their respective patterns of resource utilization. An awards program will
provide public recognition for those community-based, industrial, governmental and non-
governmental entities that demonstrate their commitment to improving the quality of MBRS
resources. Specific activities supported under the sub-component are described below.

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Production and dissemination of education materials
78.
This activity will support the production of primary school level curriculum materials for stu-
dents and associated teaching guides, and support for two regional 6-day training workshops
for teachers. Secondary school level curriculum materials for students and associated teaching
guides will also be produced, and their use supported through the implementation of two re-
gional 6-day training workshops for teachers. An annual coastal resources fair and contest will
be established for secondary school level students to exhibit and award projects that most suc-
cessfully support MBRS conservation and sustainable use.
Regional workshops
79.
Six 4-day regional workshops will be conducted to educate and train the following target
groups: (i) leading industrialists about best practices for conservation and sustainable use of
the MBRS; (ii) tourism professionals about best practices for conservation and sustainable use
of the MBRS; and (iii) influential community leaders (e.g., religious, local government, social
organizations) about conservation and sustainable use of the MBRS.
Regional conferences
80.
Two 2-day regional conferences will be held for members of the business and tourism sectors
and community leaders to present the activities/projects they have implemented and to and
give awards for those subprojects and activities which most successfully support MBRS con-
servation and sustainable use objectives. These activities will be coordinated especially with
those under the MPA and Sustainable Uses project components.
IV.
ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACTS OF THE PROJECT, AND PROPOSED MEASURES
TO ENHANCE POSITIVE AND AVOID OR MITIGATE POTENTIALLY
NEGATIVE IMPACTS
81.
As can be perceived from the objectives and description of activities under each of the four
components, the MBRS project is designed to treat many of the fundamental threats to the
ecological health of the MBRS, as well as contribute to the sustainable utilization of resources
found therein. The environmental and social impact of the project will be overwhelmingly
positive, directly and indirectly. The project will make important contributions to the body of
knowledge concerning the status of the MBRS and its resources, and the real and potential
negative impacts of anthropogenic activities as these are manifested on the MBRS. The pro-
ject seeks synergistic linkages with ongoing local, national, regional and international projects
and programs that deal with conservation and sustainable use of MBRS resources. By design,
the project should complement both ongoing and future projects and programs, especially in
areas where these programs lack a regional perspective in terms of conservation and sustain-
able use of the shared resources of the MBRS.
82.
The proposed project will provide assistance and support to both governmental and non-
governmental entities, as well as contribute to sustainable use initiatives with resource users at
the local/community level. The MBRS project places emphasis on the two priority trans-
boundary areas that have been identified as those most at risk of unsustainable depredation of
resources. These areas have traditionally been ignored by national governments and/or ex-
cluded from project outreach as they are in many cases regarded as "lawless" and outside of
regulatory outreach. Because of natural conditions created by prevailing ocean currents and
winds, these same transboundary areas are the principal receptors of sediments and contami-

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nants that emanate from land- and marine-based sources, and are most at risk of ecological
degradation.
83.
There is a risk of minor negative environmental and social impacts related to project imple-
mentation. Financing of infrastructure construction and improvements could present tempo-
rary and localized impacts in the form of sedimentation or contamination if proper safeguards
are not employed to avoid or mitigate these. Also, related to the establishment or development
of MPAs and fisheries conservation efforts is the potential for disrupting traditionally-
practiced economic activities (fishing), although these have been found to be, in turn, degrad-
ing the resources leading to self-elimination of these activities in certain areas. In both cases,
the project includes mitigation strategies and measures to avoid or dissipate any such potential
impacts.
84.
An analysis of the probable and potential positive and negative environmental and social im-
pacts is presented below for each of the project components. As necessary and appropriate,
measures to enhance the positive impacts of the project and avoid or mitigate potentially nega-
tive impacts are indicated.
A.
Marine Protected Areas Management Component
85.
Activities under this component will have immediate and positive impacts on efforts to con-
serve marine and coastal ecological complexes. Investments are targeted at consolidating
management of 9 existing MPAs, and facilitating the establishment of 6 new MPAs currently
in differing processes of legal designation. The creation and/or consolidation of 15 MPAs
should advance objectives of the establishment of a Mesoamerican marine and coastal corridor
to complement the terrestrial Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. The project will complement
ongoing and planned national-level biological conservation projects and several regional ef-
forts (for instance PROARCA/COSTAS financed by USAID), contributing to the effective
management of legally-protected areas that, up to the present, have been regarded as "paper
parks". MPAs to be funded under the MBRS project have been selected based on regional
conservation criteria and funding will be facilitated for the preparation of management plans
and effective on-site management.
86.
Proposed training, facilitation of equipment and transboundary cooperation activities proposed
under the component should significantly improve the on-site management of MPAs. As
MPAs are consolidated and become better managed, their social and economic significance
will increase with greater visitation of residents and tourists. Efforts under the MPA compo-
nent will be coordinated with activities proposed under the Promotion of Sustainable Uses
component. Synergies among these components will facilitate mutual objectives of enhanced
biological conservation and sustainable utilization of marine and coastal resources, especially
coral reefs (diving, kayaking and other ecotourism activities ) and fisheries (as populations of
species currently overexploited recover). Furthermore, an increase in the area under effective
conservation management and increased tourism activity associated with MPAs should bring
about added value of economic opportunities to local communities.
87.
There exists the potential for some minor negative impacts associated with construction of
ranger stations and public use facilities in the two transboundary areas of Xcalak/Bacalar
Chico and Sarstoon-Temash/Sarstún , and Utila Island in the Gulf of Honduras. Land clearing,
limited excavation and soil movement associated with establishment of these facilities may re-
sult in increased erosion and sedimentation. Depending on the siting of structures, they could
interfere with natural coastal processes and defenses from tropical storms. Also, operation of
these facilities could lead to contamination of the surrounding environment with liquid and

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solid wastes if these are not properly contained and disposed of. In order to avoid or mitigate
potentially negative consequences of these activities, a simple environmental impact assess-
ment will be carried out for each structure proposed. This assessment will comply with all EA
regulations found in each respective country and World Bank policies and guidelines. To
complement this effort a set of guidelines will be developed to incorporate the environmental
dimension into the siting and construction of protected areas management infrastructure and
avoid contamination of fragile ecosystems in and adjacent to the MPAs. An MBRS regional
project staff member will develop these instruments, train local MPA staff in their application
and monitor compliance.
88.
In some cases, local communities have traditionally used waters and reefs of the MPAs (both
existing and several slated for legal declaration) for their fishing activities. Some of these fish-
ers have constructed and used temporary shelters as fishing camps on several of the islands
and coastal locations found within the MPAs. Depending on the frequency of fishing and spe-
cies fished, these fishers could be impacted should their access to fisheries resources be lim-
ited or restricted altogether. The location and importance of these locations has not yet been
determined, nor which communities or individuals depend on them. It should also be men-
tioned, however, that many of then traditional fishing locations within the MBRS have been
abandoned due to diminishing stocks, especially for grouper, sardines, conch and lobster. In
essence, the fishers have degraded their own resource and impacted their own livelihoods by
not respecting basic fishing regulations (fishing out of season, overfishing species beyond set
catch limits, harvesting undersized individuals ).
89.
In order to respond to the potential for adversely impacting local fisher communities, as part
of the proposed rapid ecological assessments for each of the MPAs to be supported by the pro-
ject, local fisher communities will be consulted in order to determine the significance of local
fisheries within the MPAs. Depending on the results of these assessments, strategies and poli-
cies for mitigation or compensation of any perceived impacts would be adopted. The project,
with activities proposed under the Promotion of Sustainable Uses Component, already envi-
sions vocational training to transform fishers into tour and sport-fishing guides and divemas-
ters. These fishers, already possessing good knowledge of the waters and reefs within many of
the MPAs could also become park rangers within the MPAs and/or para-investigators in sup-
port of research and monitoring activities proposed under the EIS and Sustainable Uses com-
ponents.
B.
Regional Environmental Information System Component
90.
The TRCA found that the lack of basic scientific information on the status and dynamics of
the MBRS is the single most pervasive limitation to environmentally-sound management of
MBRS resources. This situation is compounded by the multiplicity of procedures and formats
for what little data are collected in each of the countries and by several regional and interna-
tional entities. This component will respond directly to these deficiencies in its establishment
of a bilingual EIS with outreach in each and among the four countries that make up the
MBRS.
91.
The creation of a web-based EIS with a complementary meta-database will enable scientists,
students, resource managers and decision-makers ready access to information pertinent to the
conservation and sustainable use of the MBRS. Better-informed decisions should lead to bet-
ter management of MBRS resources. Establishment of the EIS will also necessitate consolida-
tion of parameters, procedures, protocols and formats for the collection of information rele-
vant to the monitoring of the ecological health of the MBRS and the impacts of natural phe-
nomena and anthropogenic activities. As part of the EIS, a regional integrated synoptic envi-

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ronmental monitoring program will contribute both baseline and longitudinal information on
the dynamics of the MBRS, including such aspects as water quality, surface currents, recruit-
ment areas, impacts of principal river discharges, coral reef health and tendencies, and bio-
monitors. Over time, the EIS and environmental monitoring program should facilitate a better
understanding of MBRS ecological processes, the importance of certain geographical areas
(such as MPAs and spawning aggregation sites), and sources of contamination and causes of
degradation of MBRS resources.
92.
Establishment of the regional EIS, with both central and national nodes, will have very posi-
tive environmental impact within each country and the region as a whole, as development
planning and conservation efforts will be facilitated with an improved knowledge base con-
cerning the potential for impacts, both positive and negative. Capacity building in each of the
countries, to be brought about through the provision of equipment, training and sustained
technical assistance, should contribute to the sustainability of environmental monitoring ef-
forts as these relate to MBRS resources. The EIS will support all other components by serving
as receptor and disseminator of information concerning basic ecology, fisheries, tourism re-
sources and the need for proper management of MBRS resources. The monitoring program
will be supplemented by, and feed back information to, data management activities to be han-
dled under the MPA and Sustainable Uses components. Information from the EIS will also be
made available for inclusion in materials to be promoted under the Environmental Education
and Awareness component.
C.
Promotion of Sustainable Uses of the MBRS Component
93.
This component focuses on the most important economic activities utilizing resources in the
MBRS--fisheries and tourism--seeking to make both more sustainable. Activities under the
Sustainable Fisheries sub-component are oriented primarily to improving scientific knowledge
regarding the reproduction dynamics and viability of populations of selected economically-
important marine finfishes which are currently believed overexploited. The delimitation and
monitoring of spawning aggregation sites will lead to a better understanding of the status of
Nassau grouper, mutton snapper, yellowtail snapper and the hogfish. Modeling of this infor-
mation and other data available in each of the countries and at a regional level will permit bet-
ter assessment of ecosystem conditions and tendencies, which will, in turn, lead to the devel-
opment of strategies and policies of improved fisheries management in the MBRS. One inter-
mediate objective of the sub-component is to consider establishment of spawning aggregation
sites as MPAs as a strategy to protect at-risk species. This strategy would also serve to coun-
teract any conflicting efforts to use information concerning the location of spawning aggrega-
tion sites for out-of-season depredation of these fish species.
94.
The sub-component also includes an assessment of the interrelationships of different groups of
users of MBRS resources (primarily tour operators and fishers) with the intent of developing
mutually-sustainable utilization strategies that balance resource use with objectives of conser-
vation. Also included are activities for the vocational retraining of fishers located in the two
priority transboundary areas in alternative economic activities more consistent with the objec-
tives of sustainable use of the MBRS. The conversion of fishers to tour and sport-fishing
guides, divemasters, park rangers and naturalists will have both positive social and environ-
mental impacts. Also, as fisheries stocking rates improve, strategies for sustainable fisheries of
selected species can be developed with possible redeployment of fishers from affected com-
munities.
95.
The Facilitation of Sustainable Coastal and Marine Tourism sub-component will provide
guidance to tour operators, government authorities and NGOs on environmentally-sound tour-

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ism practices, including "green" certification. The proposed regional forum among representa-
tives of the tourism and national regulatory agencies of the MBRS is designed to bring re-
gional tourism issues and policies into dialogue and facilitate adoption of uniform environ-
mental impact assessment procedures and tourism "best practices" for the industry. The same
forum will promote packaging of regional tours within the MBRS, itself a strategy to promote
sustainable use of this shared resource. Tourism best-practices guides will be prepared based
on lessons learned in the region and widely distributed throughout the region. Among the best
practices to be embraced by the project are: policies of social inclusion, participation of local
communities (community-based tourism), consideration and respect of local social and cul-
tural features (esp. Garífuna), and utilization of locally-available services. This will be fol-
lowed up with a marine tourism exemplary practices tour and a regional environmental certifi-
cation program designed to encourage tour operators to adopt best practices and promote envi-
ronmental protection and conservation objectives of the project. Sustainable tourism under this
sub-component will be directly linked with activities under the MPA component in an attempt
to bring added economic value to the objectives of protected areas management.
D.
Environmental Education and Awareness Component
96.
Activities proposed under this component will enhance the understanding of the environ-
mental, social and economic value of the MBRS, its fragility and needs to conserve its shared
resources. The component is intended to complement all three other components in raising the
awareness with a clearinghouse function, through the packaging and dissemination of infor-
mation in printed and audio-visual media within each of the countries. The component will
target relevant stakeholders and convene media events to present information on the MBRS
and extol the need for its conservation.
97.
The formal and informal education activities are targeted primarily within the two priority
transboundary areas. While formal education media will be made available throughout the
MBRS region, it will be complemented with training of primary and secondary teachers in
schools within the transboundary areas in order to enhance the positive impact of environ-
mental education efforts. Similarly, informal education events will target representatives of
industries determined to present the greatest risk to the integrity of the MBRS, as well as tour
operators (the latter in direct coordination with the Sustainable Tourism sub-component) and
groups of community leaders. Non-formal education will focus on the dissemination of envi-
ronmentally-sound best practices. Annual "green" awards programs are designed to engender
a sense of competitiveness among educators (through coastal resources fairs) and industrialists
(clean industry).
V.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN: INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK,
COSTS AND TIMETABLE
98.
As indicated above, the MBRS project will produce overwhelmingly positive environmental
and social impacts in the region. The MBRS project, as designed, constitutes in itself an envi-
ronmental management plan (EMP). The most important effort at environmental and social
impact mitigation and management will be to implement the project as designed with the
greatest level of efficiency and coordination with national partners. For this reason, the re-
gional office Natural Resources Management Specialist will monitor annual work plans and
evaluations, and effect field visits, to ensure compliance with project's intermediate objectives
of effective environmental and social management. The only additional activities that need to
be included in the project to avoid potentially negative environmental impacts are those re-
lated to the construction of protected areas management infrastructure in five MPAs, four of

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which are in transboundary areas. The following activities are proposed to avoid or mitigate
potential impacts.
A.
Simplified Environmental Impact Assessment
99.
As described under the section dealing with the MPA component, a simple environmental im-
pact assessment procedure, such as an annotated checklist (Ficha Ambiental), should be used
for siting and design of each structure. This checklist should be applied in the field by person-
nel of each respective MPA, or the organization charged with management of the MPA. The
checklist is based on a best practice model and modified to reflect local conditions and risks,
by the Natural Resources Management Specialist assigned to the project's regional office in
Belize. MPA personnel will be trained in the use of the checklist in a two-day workshop to be
organized by the Specialist, who will then also monitor compliance with the procedure. The
procedure should be compliant with any and all applicable regulations and norms in each of
the respective countries as may be stipulated in local or national laws and codes. As appropri-
ate, the procedure and checklist should be adapted to local environmental and socioeconomic
conditions.
B.
Environmental Management Guidelines for Construction and Operation of MPA Infra-
structure
100.
In addition to the environmental impact assessment procedure, it will be necessary to follow a
number of environmental management guidelines designed to avoid or at least ameliorate any
possible on-site impacts associated with construction and operation of MPA infrastructure.
Once the sites and general environmental conditions in each of the MPAs proposed for infra-
structure construction are better understood, the regional Natural Resources Management Spe-
cialist will apply a series of environmental management guidelines for the construction and
operation of all MPA infrastructure. Where and when appropriate, these guidelines should be
supplemented with any and all applicable regulations, norms and conditions as may be stipu-
lated in local or national laws and codes. As appropriate, these guidelines should be adapted to
local environmental and socioeconomic conditions. The following items, among others, were
considered for inclusion in the guidelines to be prepared by the Specialist:
Construction Phase
Construction should take place during the dry season to reduce potential for rain and storm-related
erosion/sedimentation and contamination;
The designs for infrastructure should mimic local architecture and employ local building materials
when available and appropriate; structures should blend in with the local natural and/or cultural
settings;
Avoid siting structures near or within high tide or annual storm surge levels;
Avoid clearing and/or draining of mangroves or wetland areas;
Avoid excavation/dredging or quarrying of coral rocks and sand, especially along coastal head-
lands, reefs and seagrass areas;

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If cultural or archaeological evidence is discovered during construction, cease activities and pro-
ceed with a rapid investigation, valuation and, if necessary relocation of infrastructure and/or res-
cue of cultural resources;
Construction techniques should include silt barriers and berms to control accelerated erosion and
sedimentation of nearby wetland, riparian or coastal areas;
A solid waste management plan should be in place at the time of initiation of construction, with
necessary receptacles for storage, and transport (for removal from area) and/or incineration facili-
ties maintained in good working order;
Any oil, grease or fuel should be stored in containers and protected from storms (rain and tides);
the contractor should have in place a contingency plan for oil and fuel spills, including equipment
to contain and dispose of spilled substances;
All areas cleared should be returned to their original (or better) condition, with any re-vegetation
employing native species.
Operational Phase
A solid waste management plan should be developed and in place, with necessary storage recepta-
cles and transport and/or incineration or sanitary landfill facilities maintained in good working or-
der;
Unless connection with an established septic treatment system is available, MPAs should be
equipped with composting toilets (Clivus multrium) to avoid contamination of surrounding soil
and nearby wetland, riparian or coastal areas;
The MPA should have contingency plans for all types of accidents, spills and evacuations for
tropical storms;
All fuel, lubricants and potentially-hazardous substances should be stored in storm-proof contain-
ers and storage facilities.
101.
These general guidelines will be complemented with particular impact mitigation and/or envi-
ronmental mitigation and management specifications that may be stipulated on the basis of the
environmental impact assessment procedure described above as it is applied on a case by case
basis. These mitigation measures and environmental management guidelines will be incorpo-
rated in applicable construction contracts with compliance monitored by MPA personnel
trained by the Specialist. In complement, guidelines for environmental management required
during the operation of MPA infrastructure will be implemented by MPA personnel with
technical assistance, as required, provided by the Specialist.
C.
Costs and Timetable
102.
Costs for the training activity have already been included in the budget for the MPA compo-
nent; hence the implementation of actions indicated above require no additional financing un-
der the project. The training will be combined with other planned MPA training events. The
timetable for preparation of the environmental impact assessment procedure and checklist, and
environmental management guidelines will coincide with the execution schedule for design

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and construction of MPA infrastructure. It is expected that these instruments will be prepared
in PY1.
VI. RISKS
103.
The project design recognizes the interconnectedness of ecological processes within the
MBRS, and the transboundary nature of the environmental impacts of improper designed or
executed anthropogenic activities. These transboundary impacts can only be dealt with inte-
grally with coordinated national and regional responses. Obviously, a regional project or pro-
gram can only be as strong as the sum of its parts. This is especially true in relation to the
number of existing and proposed projects within each of the four countries that make up the
MBRS. With so many national and regional initiatives, it is not surprising that the level of co-
ordination among these projects has been very limited. In some cases, project managers do not
know of the existence of other projects; while in other cases, financial aid institutions and/or
project management agencies do not want to complicate their own efforts with collaborations
with other projects. Coordination among bilateral and multilateral organizations, whether at
the country or regional level, has been poor, resulting in various instances of duplication of ac-
tivities, several with the same counterpart institutions. While many of these national and re-
gional projects support activities that coincide thematically with the proposed MBRS project,
they do not have uniform geographical coverage throughout the MBRS region. They also dif-
fer strategically and methodologically, in some areas, from those of the MBRS initiative, es-
pecially in terms of their treatment, or no, of threats to the MBRS and their causes and in pro-
cedures and protocols for environmental monitoring and information formats. These tradi-
tional deficiencies also represent a risk to the present regional project effort.
104.
The MBRS project should facilitate coordination on technical, methodological and operational
levels among regional and national projects and programs related to conservation and sustain-
able use objectives of the project achieving technical synergies as well as financial and im-
plementation efficiencies of scale. While the regional project should add value to activities
implemented under the array of national and local initiatives, these same national and local
projects must also make accommodations for achieving greater impact on a regional scale, es-
pecially for those resources shared within the MBRS. Thus, it will be incumbent on managers
of the regional MBRS project to forge collaborations in order to create operational synergies
and make best use of the limited resources available for financing activities to be proposed
under project components. Areas of opportunity for collaboration in activities can be found for
each MBRS component, including aspects of: policy and regulatory strengthening, training,
environmental education and public outreach campaigns and media development, planning re-
sponses for contingencies, and in areas of inventory, monitoring and the development of the
proposed environmental information system.
105.
Another important risk is presented by the extremely limited technical and managerial capac-
ity of the four countries' national government institutions in MBRS countries responsible for
managing MBRS resources. Personnel are either too few, ill prepared professionally and/or
are constantly changed limiting agencies ability to successfully execute complex integrated
marine and coastal resources management projects; or they lack absorptive capacity for still
more resources, even where these are needed. These same countries are also weak in their
promotion of policies that favor implementation of projects promoting conservation and sus-
tainable use of marine and coastal resources, especially where special economic interests tend
to exert greater influence to maintain the status quo of overexploitation.

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106.
The MBRS project seeks to democratize its outreach and work with private industry, NGOs
and, potentially, selected community-based organizations, in addition to governmental agen-
cies in the four countries. This diversification of partners should alleviate the impacts of policy
and personnel changes in a particular country, as well as ensure continuity of activities and
flow of project resources.

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London.
Heyman, W.D. and B. Kjerfve. 1999 (unpublished).The Gulf of Honduras. Punta Gorda, Belize.
Jorge, M. 1999. Report of the Preliminary Meeting of Experts on the Mesoamerican Caribbean
Reef Ecoregion. Meeting held April 12-14, 1999 in Belize City. World Wide Fund for Nature.
Washington.
Kramer, P. and P. Kramer. 2000. Ecological Status of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System: Impacts
of Hurricane Mitch and 1998 Coral Bleaching. Final Report to the World Bank. University of Mi-
ami/RSMAS (January 2000).
Rodríguez, J. J. y N. J. Windevoxhel. 1998. Análisis regional de la situación de la zona marina
costera centroamericana. Informe Técnico No. ENV-121. BID. Washington.
UNEP/CEP. 1999. Environmental Issues in the Caribbean: An Overview of Land Based Sources of
Marine Pollution (LBSMP). AMEP Programme for the Assessment and Management of Environ-
mental Pollution. www.cep.unep.org/issues/lbsp.
UNEP/CEP. 1994. Regional Overview of Land-based Sources of Pollution in the Wider Carib-
bean. CEP Technical Report # 33. Caribbean Environment Programme. Kingston.

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UNEP. 1992. Environmental Problems Affecting the Marine and Coastal Environment in the
Wider Caribbean Region (Draft). Tenth Meeting of the Monitoring Committee on the Action
Plan for the Caribbean Environment Programme and Special Meeting of the Bureau of Contract-
ing Parties to the Convention for the Protection and Development of the Marine Environment of
the Wider Caribbean Region. 11-13 November 1992, Kingston.

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Environmental Data Sheet for Projects
in the IBRD/IDA Lending Program
Country:
Regional (Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras)
Project Id: GE-P0
53349
Project:
Conservation And Sustainable Use of the
Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS)
Appraisal Date: 12/10/01-12-15/01
IBRD (GEF)/Total Cost: US$11.0 / US$24.2
Board Date:
Proposed: July 5, 2001
IDA Amount (US$M): US${Cost}: 0
Managing Division: LCC2C
Sector:
Environment
Lending Instruments: No
Status:
Negotiated
EA Category: "B"
Date Assigned: May 22, 2001
DATE DATA SHEET UPDATED: April 25, 2001
MAJOR PROJECT COMPONENTS: Goals are to facilitate enhanced protection of vulnerable coastal and marine ecosystems and
assist governments of Mexico, Belize, Honduras and Guatemala, NGOs and private efforts to promote sustainable use of MBRS
resources. Project will have the following components:
1.
Marine Protected Areas: Support for consolidation of 15 MPAs through rapid ecological assessments, drafting of management
plans, equipment, training and technical assistance. Support for establishment of three transboundary MPAs in the Bay of Chetumal
and Gulf of Honduras.
2.
Regional Environmental Information System: Development of a web-based integrated environmental information system (EIS)
with a regional node and a minimum of four national nodes. Equipment, training and technical assistance to establish operational EIS
in each country, with outreach/access provided to government, NGOs, universities and private users of information. EIS will function
as a meta-database site. Development of an integrated synoptic environmental monitoring program, focusing water quality,
oceanographic parameters and selected biological indicators. Data will be integrated into EIS and made available to users.
3.
Promotion of Sustainable Uses of the MBRS: Support for delimitation, mapping and monitoring/control of spawning aggregation
sites for selected at-risk species, introduction of regional protocols for collection and processing of data to be used in development of
management strategies and policies. Counterparts in national fisheries authorities will be trained in use of ecosystem modeling as a
fisheries management tool. Proposes an assessment of relationship between fishers and other groups of resource users (esp. tourism) to
ascertain strategies and programs for mutually-beneficial management of fisheries resources and vocational retraining of fishers in
other economic activities. Sustainable tourism sub-component will promote adoption of best practices in siting, design, construction
and operation of tourism infrastructure and ecotourism packaging and operations, including regional environmental certification
program. This will be supplemented with regional seminars to promote dialogue and adoption of uniform environmental assessment
and management standards, and regional exemplary practice tours. Model regional tour packages will be promoted.
4.
Environmental Education and Public Awareness: Development of media for public awareness campaigns and formal and non-
formal education. A clearinghouse will collect, classify, repackage and distribute relevant information to further goals of the project.
Formal education activities consist of production of curriculum guides for dissemination throughout the region, with teacher training
concentrated in transboundary areas. Non-formal education targets selected industries presenting environmental risks to MBRS.
PROJECT LOCATION: The MBRS project area stretches about 1,000km from Isla de Contoy, Mexico south along the coasts of
Belize and Guatemala, including the barrier reef and offshore islands, to the Gulf of Honduras, and then east along the North Coast of
Honduras, including the Bay Islands, to the mouth of the Aguán River, and includes adjacent marine ecosystems and coastal
watersheds in these countries. The inland boundaries of the study area vary by country and specific locality, but are generally intended
to encompass those land and water resources within the coastal plains and adjacent coastal watersheds. The ocean extension of the
study area varies from approximately 40 km off the northern coast of Quintana Roo in Mexico, extending out some 240 km from the
apex of the Gulf of Honduras, to approximately 50 km off the North Coast of Honduras.
The MBRS includes the second longest barrier reef in the world, and is unique in the Western Hemisphere for its size, its array of
reef types and the luxuriance of corals. The MBRS stabilizes and protects coastal landscapes, maintains coastal water quality, sustains
species of commercial importance, serves as breeding and feeding grounds for marine mammals, reptiles, fish and invertebrates, and
offers employment alternatives and incomes to approximately one million people living in coastal zones adjacent to the reefs. Several
national parks and reserves have been designated as World Heritage sites.
MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: A Threat and Root Causes/Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis was carried out during the
design process. The following threats are considered the background under which the project will be implemented:
Coastal/Island Development and Unsustainable Tourism, which includes urban, hotel and resort development and related infra-
structure (pollution/contamination, nutrification, sedimentation, physical reef damage, impacts to estuary and lagoons and mangrove
destruction, beach erosion, habitat change, etc.);
Inappropriate Inland Resource and Land Use and Industrial Development, encompassing a broad range of agricultural, urban and
industrial development in inland watersheds with direct or indirect impacts on the MBRS (sedimentation, pollution/contamination,
eutrophication, habitat and species/abundance changes, mass kills of organisms, etc.);
Overfishing and Aquaculture, in relation to industrial, artisanal, subsistence and recreational fishing, and aquaculture in coastal
areas, which pose real and potential impacts of species and abundance change, local extinction of selected species, habitat
change/symbiosis imbalances, reduced subsistence and revenues from fisheries, etc.
Inappropriate Port, Shipping and Navigation Practices, including water, reef and beach contamination, reef damage, impacts to
aquatic species and fisheries (including mass kills), degradation of the tourism values, etc.
Natural Geomorphological and Climato-Meteorological Phenomena, with immediate relevance to recent coral bleaching events
associated with El Niño, impacts of hurricanes (with emphasis on Hurricane Mitch) and predominant ocean currents; environmental

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and socioeconomic impacts from anthropogenic activities (see above) are exacerbated by these natural phenomena.
The MBRS project is designed to address many ecological threats to the MBRS, as well as contribute to sustainable use of its
resources. The environmental and social impact of the project will be overwhelmingly positive, directly and indirectly. It will
contribute to knowledge concerning the status of the MBRS and its resources, and the real and potential negative impacts of
anthropogenic activities. The project seeks synergistic linkages with ongoing local, national, regional and international projects and
programs that deal with conservation and sustainable use of MBRS resources. By design, the project should complement ongoing and
future projects and programs for the MBRS, especially where these programs lack a regional perspective.
OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: The potential for negative environmental impacts under this project is practically nil. The
only real risk posed by the project as designed is related to the siting and construction of MPA infrastructure (ranger stations and public
use facilities in the two transboundary areas of Xcalak/Bacalar Chico and Sarstoon-Temash/Sarstún , and Utila Island). Land clearing
and excavations could pose some risks of accelerated erosion and sedimentation in fragile coastal areas, and loss of mangrove or other
species at risk. Depending on the operation of the ranger stations and visitors' centers, environmental contamination could occur as
tourism pressure is increased, bringing about generation of greater volume of liquid and solid wastes.
In some cases, local communities have traditionally used waters and reefs of the MPAs (both existing and proposed) for fishing
activities. Some fishers have constructed temporary shelters as fishing camps on several of the islands and coastal locations found
within the MPAs. Depending on the frequency of fishing and species fished, these fishers could be impacted should their access to
fisheries resources be limited or restricted altogether. The location and importance of traditionally used fishing sites in MPAs have not
yet been determined, nor which communities or individuals depend on them. It should also be mentioned, however, that many tradi-
tional fishing locations within the MBRS have been abandoned due to diminishing stocks, especially for grouper, sardines, conch and
lobster, because of fishing out of season, overfishing species beyond set catch limits, etc.
PROPOSED ACTIONS: To avoid or mitigate potentially negative consequences of MPA infrastructure construction under the
project, a simple environmental impact assessment will be carried out and environmental impact mitigation measures will be
incorporated into MPA management plans at each site. The assessment and mitigation measures will comply with all environmental
assessment regulations found in each respective country and World Bank policies and guidelines. The Project Coordination Unit (PCU)
will ensure that management plans include environmental review and mitigation measures where infrastructure and other civil works
are involved. It will also monitor compliance and help set up a monitoring program for local MPA staff.
To respond to the potential for adversely impacting local fisher communities, as part of the proposed rapid ecological assessments
for each of the MPAs to be supported by the project, local fisher communities will be consulted in order to determine the significance
of local fisheries within the MPAs. Depending on the results of these assessments, strategies and policies for mitigation or
compensation of any perceived impacts would be adopted. The project, with activities proposed under the Promotion of Sustainable
Uses Component, already envisions vocational training to transform fishers into tour and sport-fishing guides and dive-masters. These
fishers, who have good knowledge of the waters and reefs within many of the MPAs, could also become park rangers and/or para-
investigators in support of research and monitoring activities proposed under the EIS and Sustainable Uses components.
JUSTIFICATION/RATIONALE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CATEGORY: Although the project is expected to have
overwhelmingly positive environmental impacts, the potential for some negative impacts exists, thus justifying the B category rating.
REPORTING SCHEDULE: Category B: is there a separate environmental analysis? An environmental analysis of the project has
been appended to the PAD. Separate environmental reviews will be performed for sub-activities, such as minor civil works associated
with MPA management plans that will be prepared under the project. These will be done on an as-needed basis.
REMARKS: During the design phase of the project, stakeholders were consulted through a variety of approaches. Three regional
project-planning workshops brought together members of the National Barrier Reef Committees of each country. These committees are
comprised of representatives of government agencies responsible for themes related to MBRS, NGOs active in coastal and marine
areas, and representatives or private industry. The workshops also included invitees from community-based organizations, including
Garífuna fishing villages from Honduras, Guatemala and Belize. Workshops permitted interchange of ideas and interests concerning
the values placed on MBRS resources and current economic and cultural uses. Wide participation of stakeholders in work groups and
plenary sessions enriched the design process and helped focus regional priorities.
The TRCA study, which was used as the principal basis for the EA, involved numerous consultations with members of the
National Barrier Reef Committees to assess national priorities and comprehend the outreach and activities of projects and programs
being implemented within each country. Similarly, representatives of regional and international projects provided information to avoid
duplication and promote synergistic approaches for regional cooperation with existing projects. The TRCA study was used in the final
project design and current EA. All stakeholders were of the opinion that the MBRS project would have important positive
environmental and social impacts for the MBRS region.
Signature
Signature
and Date:
__________________________________
and Date:
__________________________________
Name
John
Redwood
Director
Director, LCSES
Initials
Initials
and Date:
__________________________________
and Date:
__________________________________
Task Manger's Initials
Walter Vergara, EA Review Coordinator

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Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 12
Social Assessment of the Meso-American Barrier Reef System (MBRS) Area of Influence
Executive Summary
I.
Introduction
1.
As part of the project preparation for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Meso-
American Barrier Reef System (MBRS) Project (the Project), a social assessment (SA) with the fol-
lowing specific objectives was conducted: (i) Identify ecosystem users and their activities, especially
fisheries and tourism, and the impact these have on the reef. (ii) Identify key stakeholders, especially
the ethnic groups residing in these zones, to ensure that their recommendations are taken into account
in Project design. (iii) Identify possible negative impacts of the Project, if any, especially on the
MBRS, archeological sites, Marine Protected Areas (MPA) and coastal conservation areas. (iv) Pro-
pose mechanisms and strategies arising from local groups for their participation in the Project. (v)
Identify best opportunities for strengthening the technical and institutional ability of community or-
ganizations to contribute to the Project objective and achieve an improved gender and ethnic balance.
2.
This document summarizes the main results of this social assessment. The first part describes
the ethnic and indigenous groups, with a special section assessing the status of women. The second
part analyzes recent regional development, since it significantly influences risks, capabilities and the
local population's perceptions. Then the risks, perceptions and potential conflict areas are described.
The last section describes recommended actions.
3.
The SA results include an Indigenous People's Participation and development Plan, prepared
in order to support indigenous peoples' and ethnic groups' (Garífuna , mestizos, blacks, Creoles, Ma-
yas) participation in MBRS conservation and the Project and to target actions to them and, in particu-
lar, to lower income groups and women. The Plan includes a matrix that identifies, in the Project cost
tables, activities and costs related to participation and development of ethnic and indigenous groups.
II. Methodology
4.
The SA was done for each of the four countries in the Project impact areas, after agreeing
upon the methodology to be used. It was agreed to limit the SA to the areas of the transboundary limits
of Chetumal Bay and the Gulf of Honduras and to focus on the fishing and tourism industries, since
these are the main geographic foci of the project and activities to be supported under sustainable use.
The results of these four reports (which are available as national reports) are consolidated in the main
report, summarized in this section. The SA consisted of: (i) a literature review; (ii) identification of
ethnic and indigenous groups in the Project impact areas and field visits; (iii) surveys and open-ended
interviews (205) with representatives from all key groups; and (iv) focus groups and discussions with
experts (8).
III.
Social Assessment Results
III.1
Ethnic and Indigenous Groups in the Project Area
5.
For purposes of this Project an attempt was made to identify the population that lives in the
impact area, defined as those who live along the coast, on the islands and within six miles inland of the
areas bordering on Chetumal Bay and the Gulf of Honduras.

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6.
In Belize, these people are primarily Creoles and Garífuna who live in Corozal, Stann Creek
District and Punta Gorda. This is a population of about 64,000 people. It is important to point out the
high growth rate reflected in national census figures for these districts, primarily due to immigration to
Belize from both its northern and southern borders. This growth is occurring in rural areas, except for
Toledo District. The majority of immigrants engage in subsistence agriculture, farming hillsides or
working as laborers on large plantations.
7.
In Mexico there are two ethnic groups: Mestizos and Mayans. The area of the project, the
South, is isolated with mainly a commercial activity that is declining and with a population of about a
1000, settled in two small villages Majahual and Xcalak. These two villages have a population of
about 600. Social indicators are not good for the area, illiteracy is 13%, 53% of the population is un-
employed, 28% works in agriculture and only 33% have running water in their homes.
8.
Beneficiaries of the project in Guatemala are about 9,000; however, data on the area is not
reliable. The Quiche and the Queweche are about 3,000. They have great mobility and are settled in
the villages of Sarstún , Sarstún Creek, San Juan Cocoli, Guaira and in Livingston in Plan Grande and
Plan Grande Tatin.
9.
The Garífuna are about 3,500, and are in the villages of Quewehe and some in Livingston and
Puerto Barrios. The Ladinos are about 500 in Sarstún and some 1,500 in Livingston.
10.
In the project area in Honduras the indigenous and ethnic population belong to the Garífuna
and Ladino communities in Cortes and Atlántida. The areas described for both countries are ones of
the fasting growing, specially because of migration which occurs in Guatemala because of the possi-
bility of having access to land, mainly municipal or state land; and in Honduras because of employ-
ment opportunities.
11.
Women in the ethnic groups studied mainly play traditional roles, with their social indicators
reflecting inequalities, with high responsibilities in the economy and at home and very open to change.
12.
Women are key actors, very knowledgeable, consumer and user of their natural resources, and
thus, they are very interested in its conservation and resent its degradation. They define the demand
coming from house consumption (including those products that contaminated), they select the home
energy sources, determine the methods for family health and for garbage disposal. Any environmental
educational program must have them as a primary target.
13.
Women are hard workers, more responsible in managing the family budget and usually take
car of the home farms. However, the roles society assign them are the traditional ones. Most of those
consulted assigned them the roles of wives, mothers, and sometimes, house managers. Clearly they do
not decide, but participate, in community and government matters.
14.
There is a clear division of labor among gender groups, with women usually taking the ones
with lower salaries such as maids, teachers, secretaries, etc. Fishing is a male activity in which women
participate through the cleaning, drying and selling of the fish. Some of the new jobs created by the
Ecotourism industry, such as rangers, researchers, guides, boat operators, etc., are not open to women,
but they are very willing to enter that market.

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III.2 Regional
Development
15.
In general the impact area's population has deep roots in the land and lifestyles have been
greatly influenced by the geography and environment. The land is very diverse, with many fragile eco-
systems. Some have little agricultural potential and yet are the last agricultural frontier. All possess
great beauty, and are centers of unique ecological processes, full of cultural richness and diversity with
multiethnic characteristics. Due to this, in all the countries many areas in or around the Project area
have been declared specially protected areas or ecological reserves. This zone is experiencing pro-
found changes which have affected the region's natural environment and its inhabitants, particularly
ethnic groups.
16.
The vast majority of local groups have lived on and worked the land without benefit of legal
titles; their claim comes from the long-standing nature of their settlements. This causes great uncer-
tainty among the inhabitants, particularly in recent years due to land pressure produced by tourism and
real estate development. The inhabitants' movements do not obey political-administrative divisions;
they constantly move across borders. Cultures and traditions reflect ethnic identity and history, not
borders. Nevertheless, no information and knowledge exists, nor is research being done or information
being gathered about local cultures, history or ecosystems.
17.
Traditional economic activities- fisheries and agriculture- have stagnated or declined in all the
countries. This is due to factors that impact negatively on these economic activities, such as inappro-
priate practices, and to factors which lure the population towards other activities such as tourism and
urban development. Socio-economic development has been very inequitable, reflected in the poverty
rates for the zone, which are even higher for the ethnic groups. This has stimulated large portions of
the local population to migrate, mainly towards the United States, resulting in their remittances
becoming an important source for the local economy.
18.
Disorganized and uncontrolled growth of human settlements along the coast and coastal cays
has served as a magnet for the economically active population (EAP) and has negatively affected the
environment and the MBRS. Wastewater and garbage are not properly treated, except in Belize. There
have been several natural or man-made disasters in the zone, but none of the countries has prevention
or response policies or plans available to deal with them.
19.
Fisheries continues to be the means of subsistence for several of the local populations, the ma-
jority of which use traditional methods. But this has been affected by inappropriate practices, water
pollution, natural disasters and climatic changes. Fishing is men's work, although women perform
several of the activities which are indispensable and complementary to the industry.
20.
The development that has most affected the zone is that of the tourism industry. This sector
has undergone accelerated development in an uneven, unsustainable and dependent manner. Tourism
is unsustainable due to the pressure it puts on the environment, as well as the social problems it causes.
The mass tourism that has developed in zones adjacent to those in the Project, especially in the Yuca-
tan and Bay Islands, has upset the ecological balance. The clients and investors of the tourism industry
are foreigners; this creates dependency, and on top of migration, affects local cultures.
21.
Although currently proposed tourism is low-impact, the local population has created fears that
this tourist development, together with environmental protection measures, will deprive them of, or at
least reduce, their traditional means of subsistence and affect their culture. These perceptions and the
interests of the local population towards tourism vary according to social class; higher income and
more educated groups are more open to it.

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III.3
Capabilities, Risks and Potential Conflict Areas
22.
The poverty the great majority of the population lives in leads them to a life of subsistence in
which the fundamental concern is meeting basic needs, even at the expense of their environment.
Given the lack of more environmentally suitable alternatives, which basic infrastructure and alterna-
tive employment opportunities could provide, the local residents are compelled to damage their eco-
system.
23.
Lack of education and information about environmental issues, cultural values and history of
the region's ethnic groups leads to low awareness about the importance of the environment and limits
the possibilities for alternative employment. Prejudice and fear against the tourism industry also exists,
because of the negative impacts it has had on local populations, from the way it has been developed up
until now (mass tourism). The local population does not distinguish between this tourism and the al-
ternative of ecotourism and the Project, therefore their prejudices and fears extend to these. There is,
therefore, a need for education about the Project and ecotourism. This awareness-raising and educa-
tional process should happen as soon as possible to avoid negative feelings and gain support for the
Project.
24.
The ways in which the tourist industry is developing, or is planned to be developed in some
cases, does not reflect the goals of preservation and harmony with the environment. So that this unsus-
tainable brand of tourism does not happen, or does not continue in some cases, regulatory and operat-
ing mechanisms for ecotourism need to be defined along with incentives for compliance, as well as the
institutional means to enforce these regulations.
25.
For the educational campaign and Project implementation to be effective appropriate interme-
diaries need to be used. For the ethnic groups and indigenous population these are the traditional ones
with a presence in the region. Many times these are ethnic or professional organizations, which should
join forces with other, more formal or more eminent institutions.
26.
Area urban and economic development create serious environmental contamination problems;
wastewater and garbage are not treated. Urban growth and real estate development occur without
proper planning and with even less adequate regulation and control. These developmental problems
are heightened by the lack of a disaster prevention policy and the mechanisms to enforce such a policy
or mitigate the effects of these phenomena.
27.
This relatively recent growth puts pressure on the land, which have been occupied by indige-
nous and ethnic groups without legal security. This legal insecurity over land is creating social unrest,
accelerated environmental degradation and hinders participation in the Project and other environ-
mental programs.
28.
Border tensions exists along Belize's borders; to the north due to a border dispute and to the
south due to differences in regulations and differences in the way different national groups respect
these regulations. These tensions are also due to inappropriate fishing techniques still employed by
some groups.
29.
Lastly, but equally important, is the discrimination women endure in these ethnic groups
which affects the lack of environmental preservation, does not allow for a more equitable balance in
development and wastes valuable resources.

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III.4
Perception of the Project
30.
The Project is little known in the impact area, but when it is presented to the communities,
they all considered that it could have a favorable impact and see it as positive. Upon learning about the
Project, the local inhabitants' expectations are high; the majority hope that the Project will provide
employment opportunities, training and a better environment. There also exist fears regarding the Pro-
ject over the negative impact upon traditional employment opportunities, foreign intrusion, inequity in
its benefits and political preferences in its implementation.
31.
All the communities expressed that they would like to participate actively in the project, pri-
marily by means of representation on the advisory committee, participation in the implementation of
certain components and by conducting a social audit of the Project.
III.5 Recommended
Actions
32.
To counteract risks, take advantage of capabilities and avoid the potential conflicts previously
mentioned, the SA makes a series of recommendations described below, the great majority of which
are contained in the Indigenous People's Participation and Development Plan. The recommendations
not contained in the Plan are beyond the scope of the Project or are being addressed by other projects
being implemented or planned.
33.
As poverty is one of the factors most affecting the environment, and since income generation
is the priority identified by the people, the creation of alternative sources of income must be given top-
priority attention. Alternatives identified are fish and ocean farming, and strengthening and opening-
up jobs created by ecotourism and maritime handicrafts, especially to women. In order for all these
alternative businesses to be successful they should be accompanied by technical assistance and some
initial subsidies.
34.
Environmental, cultural and historical research, awareness-raising and educational programs
should be supported and strengthened. This would have the objective of reinforcing local inhabitants'
esteem and pride, in order to strengthen their identity, train them and contribute to the tourism indus-
try. More should be learned about the MBRS and local ecosystems, history and cultures. This should
be disseminated to the different target groups in an accessible manner, which implies appropriate lan-
guage use in the local languages.
35.
Ecotourism must obey clear rules and limits on its development and mechanisms should exist
to reach general agreement on, disseminate and ensure compliance with these norms, through monitor-
ing and enforcement and adequate incentive systems.. The development of this industry should include
cultural, historical and environmental aspects, primarily those of the region and its ethnic groups and
population. Ecotourism should train, educate and include local people, especially women, indigenous
people and members of ethnic groups.
36.
To overcome prejudices and negative perceptions against the Project and the development of
low-impact tourism, the related education and training components should take place as soon as possi-
ble, at the same time as the other components, if not sooner. This information and education campaign
should be adapted to the different target groups; it can be imparted through the formal educational sys-
tem as well as through the non-formal, utilizing native languages and a simple format.
37.
The phenomenon of urban and real estate development in the zone and its effects on the envi-
ronment and local populations are far-reaching and have great impact, but correcting them requires
actions beyond the scope of the Project. Nevertheless, sustainable land use can be encouraged through

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the planning and discussing of master plans, training about the use of public goods and policy guide-
lines for real estate development. Ordenamiento Territorial (Land Use Planning) and Ordenamiento
Ecologico (Ecological Zoning), have been legally mandated in Mexico, and planning is underway in
Quintana Roo. In Belize, zoning plans for the entire coastline have been developed by the Coastal
Zone Management Authority and are in the process of being implemented. Although Honduras has no
equivalent land use plans for the Caribbean Coast, zoning and strategic planning for nature and culture
based tourism development will be supported under a World Bank Project for Sustainable Coastal
Tourism being developed in parallel with the GEF MBRS Project. Only Guatemala does not yet have
any ongoing or proposed Zoning or Land Use Planning for its Caribbean Coast.
38.
The conflicts that occur among fishermen and between them and the authorities in the two
border areas in the north and south of Belize should be studied and discussed, with an attempt at im-
plementing mechanisms, some temporary, to enforce agreements, including respect for fishing prac-
tices.
39.
Women's participation should be fostered and furthered on the Project technical working
groups and the National Barrier Reef Committees and in the institutions providing services to the Pro-
ject. Opening up to women certain jobs traditionally reserved for men must be supported, and women
should be given preference in training for these kinds of work. Educational programs should include
gender components. Institutions that already have a presence in the area and have worked around these
issues should be used to implement these projects.
40.
Local organizations have widely varying capabilities; because of this the Project needs to sup-
port them, which is achieved mainly by working with them during implementation. All the institutions
are interested in working with the Project, although to do that some need to be strengthened, which
can be achieved through workshops, training and coordination.
41.
Social tension generated by insecurity over land tenure among several of the local ethnic and
indigenous groups is one of the areas of greatest potential conflict, and at the same time it influences
poor environmental management. Therefore, it must be studied and discussed as part of the Project, at
least in terms of the land in the Project impact area.
42.
Many of the solutions and actions proposed here are only viable, and others will be much
more effective, if they are carried out from a regional perspective and as a regional effort, involving all
four countries. Those actions and policies that support the Project, if it is to achieve its objectives,
should also seek equity between groups, giving preference to ethnic and indigenous groups and
women.
IV.
Participation Plan and Indigenous People's Development Plan
43.
The Project Paticipation Plan, which includes anIndigenous People's Development Plan (The
Plan) presented below was developed to take into account the majority of the above-mentioned rec-
ommendations. Its target groups include indigenous and ethnic groups, and preferentially women,
from the Project impact area. Many of the actions are focused on the tourism and fishing industries
due to their importance in the area.
44.
The budget to implement the Plan has been included in the Project cost tables. Its implementa-
tion would take care of all the concerns expressed by the communities and ethnic groups during the
consultation process of the social analysis, that are not being addressed by other means or projects in
the area. These groups did not identified any potential negative impacts of the project in their commu-
nities and environment.

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45.
The social communications campaign would address the lack of education and information
about environmental issues and reduce the prejudice and fears against the tourism industry that some
have. Special effort would be made to target many of those activities to the local groups, ensuring that
the educational material is produced in their languages and including these topics in the formal and
informal education systems. It is important that this component starts as early as possible in the pro-
ject.
46.
By identifying and developing alternative income generating opportunities or simply opening
existing jobs to minorities and women the second component of the program would contribute to miti-
gate the effects of poverty and inequality.
47.
The institutional development component would strengthen management and technical capac-
ity of local institutions, mainly the fishing cooperatives. The Plan recommends that the main target of
this component be the institutions that have a presence in the project area, many of which are the eth-
nic and professional associations or cooperatives.
48.
Existing and potential areas of conflict would be either reduced or avoided by studying and
discussing the issues of the regulatory framework for the economic development of indigenous and
ethnic groups, the land tenure and land security, socio-environmental conflicts and by training com-
munity leaders. All of these are the topics of the last three components of the Plan.

---

Annex 12
Page 8 of 9
Participation Plan and Indigenous Peoples Development Matrix
MBRS Project
Benefits for Indigenous
Cost
Strategies
Activities
Indicators
Time
Groups and Communities
(USD)
1. Planning, design and im-
Communities increase their
At least 75% of indigenous
2001-2005
360,020
plementation of environmental knowledge about links between and Afro-Caribbean com-
education campaign.
environment and development munities benefit from cam-
and derive increased capacity
paign by EOP.
for natural resource manage-
ment.
2. Planning, design and im-
Communities and teachers
At least 25% of indigenous
2002-2005
261,230
plementation to increase envi- increase their knowledge about and Afro-Caribbean com-
ronmental and MBRS content their environment and MBRS.
munities benefit from formal
in local formal educational
environmental education
systems.
campaign by EOP.
3. Non-formal education to
Business owners and employ-
At least 40% of indigenous
2002-2005
199,120
commercial sectors on envi-
ees receive training about
and Afro-Caribbean com-
ronmental issues.
MBRS and environment.
munities benefit from train-
ing by EOP.
4. Dissemination of best prac- Indigenous and ethnic popula-
1,000 copies of publication
2002-2003
49,000
tices for MPA management
tions gain increased knowledge disseminated by EOP.
and sustainable tourism devel- about sustainable tourism and
opment including benefits for MPA management.
I. Social Communication Campaign
indigenous populations and
ethnic groups.
5. Environmental certification Increased awareness of and
At least 25% of indigenous
2001-2005
135,280
program.
opportunities to benefit from
and Afro-Caribbean com-
environmental certification
munities benefit from pro-
programs.
gram by EOP.
1. Training of park rang-
Women, indigenous people,
Representatives from at least
2002-2004
156,300
ers/ecological guides or ad-
other ethnic group members,
10% of indigenous and/ or
ministrators.
and other non-indigenous
Afro-Caribbean individuals
communities receive training
trained by EOP.
as guides, park rangers or ad-
ministrators.
2. Sustainable livelihoods
Women, indigenous people and Representatives from at least 2002-2004
124,440
promotion program.
other members of ethnic groups 50% of indigenous or Afro-
are trained and learn about new Caribbean communities
employment-generating alter-
trained by EOP.
natives.
3. Tour to visit exemplary
Women, indigenous people and At least 10% of participants 2002
127,040
practices of marine tourism.
other members of ethnic groups derived from indigenous or
are trained and learn about new Afro-Caribbean communi-
employment generating
ties.
II. Alternative Income Generating Programs
alternatives.

---

Annex 12
Page 9 of 9
Benefits for Indigenous
Cost
Strategies
Activities
Indicators
Time
Groups and Communities
(USD)
1. Training in drafting man-
Local institutions strengthen
At least four local and com-
2001-2003
160,200
agement plans for MPAs.
their capacity to manage pro-
munity institutions and non-
tected areas.
government organizations
receive training by EOP.
2. Technical assistance for
Fishing cooperatives strengthen At least four institutions
2002-2004
224,730
fishing cooperatives and other their technical managerial ca-
representing Indigenous or
Development
institutions.
pability.
Afro-Caribbean groups re-
III. Institutional
ceive technical assistance or
training by EOP.
1. National Barrier Reef
Increased participation of in-
Representatives of at least
2001-2005
204,850
Committees and technical
digenous and ethnic groups in
50% of indigenous and eth-
working groups formed which decision making related to
nic groups will participate in
will incorporate representation sustainability of the MBRS.
National Barrier Reef Com-
of indigenous and ethnic
mittees or TWGs from BOP
groups.
to EOP.
2. Formation and continuous
Increased participation of in-
In those MPAs which affect 2003
84,000
operation of local advisory
digenous peoples in the design, indigenous communities, the
councils in relation to estab-
implementation and monitoring representatives of indige-
lishment and management of
of MPAs.
nous or Afro-Caribbean
MPAs.
people on the committees
nous & Ethnic Groups
will be of such a number as
to reflect such communities'
IV. Institutional Arrangements for
Increased Participation of Indige-
proportions in the local
population.
s
1. Form technical working
Land tenure issues analyzed
Land tenure issues addressed 2001
112,500
u
re
group and hold bi-annual
and discussed in the context of in at least 33% communities
V.
Land
meetings which address land
MPA management by technical associated with MPAs by
Ten
Related
Issue
tenure issues.
working groups.
EOP.
1. Drafting and discussion of Integration of conservation
Indigenous livelihood issues 2002-2004
780,120
master plans.
objectives with livelihood con- addressed in management
cerns in marine protected area
and operation plans for all
management planning.
Project MPAs that affect
indigenous peoples.
2. Training of local leaders
Community leaders more ca-
Forty women, indigenous
2002-2003
174,305
and others in community rela- pable of exercising leadership,
people, members of other
tions and the use of public
manage community relations
ethnic groups and non-
VI. Socio-Econoimc
Conflict Management
goods.
and managing public goods.
indigenous groups trained by
EOP.
1. Monitoring and evaluataion Quantitative and qualitative
Participatory assessment of
2002-2005
50,000
of Project performance and
socio-economic information on progress against project
impact.
impact of Project on indige-
indicators for Indigenous
VII.
and
nous peoples' welfare and live- and Afro-Caribbean groups
Monitoring
Evalutaion
lihoods.
at Midterm Review and Fi-
nal Project Evaluation

---

,
ent
ent
a
nnexes.
(imagery
Annex 13
data
Page 1 of 13
of
national
s
is
ith
w
and assistance
stem of coastal and marine
etc.) to facilitate GO and
itigation and enforcem
e
and analy
MBRS"
a
rine-coastal extensions in each
t
he
e zoning, land use and biodiversity
consolidate and expand the Meso-
o
f
tical m
ces inventories, using uniform
e
ntation, and taking advantage of
S
tatus
Regional Initiatives
s
is and pres
.
and Actions Proposed to Address Them1
.
erican Biological Corridor and its m
i. Technical assistance and training in the preparation and enforcem
of land-use and zoning plans; promote the use of habitat mapping
among parameters used to determin
conservation through establishment of sy
protected areas (MPAs).
ii. Publication and dissemination of practical guides for the preparation
of sector-specific EIAs and building/construction codes for coastal ar-
eas
iii. Technical assistance and training of GOs and NGOs in the prepara-
tion of sector-specific EIAs, prac
strategies.
iv. Co-implementation with local GOs and NGOs of a regional initiative
for development of coastal resour
parameters of analy
regional economies of scale for purchas
research). Publication of a "
v. Utilize regional and international political lobby
(SICA-CCAD, WB, IDB, UNDP, UNEP,
private sector officials' incorporation of the environmental costs of land
and resources development into national and local government ac-
counts, including permanent environmental monitoring programs.
vi. Support continuing initiatives to
Am
country
Proposed Actions
ent and
to prepare
stem compo-
enforce
ative procedures,
, ecosy
Annex 13
p
liance.
odels, and actively
tal resources and use/user conflicts
plementation of land-use plans and
delines for preparation of EIAs and
developer, NGO) capacity
contamination, sedimentation and
indicators of condition and intactness
e
nt m
l
evel; including the establishm
m
itigation com
GOs in reforming their governance
Threat and Root Cause Analysis
, sanitation and transport, including their envi-
National Initiatives
nd development and structures in coastal areas.
onitor m
ent of reserves.
).
A. Coastal/Island Development and Unsustainable Tourism
development and im
at the subregional
line and decentralize planning and norm
anagem
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
ental and social costs.
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Development of local (municipal,
odel to stream
a. Participatory
zoning based on economic, social, cultural and environmental parame-
ters, preferably
active co-m
b. Development of sector-specific gui
standards and codes for la
c.
EIAs and enforce and m
d. Development of inventories of coas
(including land use, water resources, geomorphology
sition/condition, and point sources of
impact), and monitoring of selected
(esp. water quality
e. Assistance to national and local
m
promote integrated coastal manage
zoning and protected areas regulations.
f. Lift subsidies favoring coastal and urban development, and charge the
real costs for water, energy
ronm
ediate and root causes for each respective threat, see corresponding section of Matrix 1.
Matrix 1: Main Threats to the Ecological Health of the MBRS and their Root Causes
ithout Adequate Envi-
w
ation at Inappropriate Sites in
1 For correlation of interm
Threat
1. Urbaniz
Coastal Areas
ronmental Engineering and Management
Practices

---

i
na-
ent
the
oted un-
's Key
Annex 13
ent by
Page 2 of 13
activities in different
and assistance
,
Roatan).
odels for the developm
Bay
pes tourism
and rules can be developed for all
-managed reserves (lagoons, natu-
Model, which combines a research
ntions related to the management
ental awareness and use of clean
ations/m
development, using the Sian
ect materials as a basis.
the preparation of diver/pleasure-
for the development of self-
(also practiced at Anthony
, including policies, regulations and
a
nufacturing processes as prom
m
onstr
m
Regional Initiatives
with tourism
u
seum
and total-quality
.
ing capacities for different ty
and m
members using uniform methodologies for the region for determin-
i
.
[See A.1.i, ii, iii, iv, v & vi above]
ii. Assistance to facilitate environm
technology
der ISO 9000 and 14000 initiatives, Green Globe and others; dissem
tion of practical guides and seminars for the tourism sector; disseminate
guidelines for sustainable touris
Ka'an/USAID and CEP/CEN proj
iii. Facilitate regional training-of-trainers courses to local NGOs, uni-
versities and educators, in vocational rehabilitation to support the tour-
ism industry
iv. Facilitate local workshops with GO, NGO, tour operators, commu-
nity
ing carry
settings. Disseminate guides and technical materials as listed in
USAID/URI's "Selected Guidelines, Handbooks and Tools for Coral
Reef Management".
v. Provide uniform guidelines for
boater guides so that local regulations
destinations in the MBRS.
vi. Disseminate uniform guidelines
financing mechanisms for community
ral areas, reefs and islands).
vii. Promote the Galapagos Tourism
facility
Resort/Marine Sciences Center in Sandy
i. Facilitate assistance and dem
of cruise-ship/live-aboard tourism
proposals for support infrastructure. Use the experience of the Belize
Tourism Board as a starting point.
ii. Utilize regional and international political lobby
(SICA-CCAD, WB, IDB, IOCARIBE, UNEP/CEP, UNDP, UNEP,
etc.) to facilitate adoption and/or ratification and enforcem
four countries, of international conve
of wastes from ships.
ittee
Proposed Actions
m
a
sters.
a com
s
, returning all
pes (profes-
-sound disposal
s
to transform
-
trippers, over-
and regulations, that
.
echanism
policy
ilar m
-based strategies for tourism devel-
areas as a whole; form
t and--considering environmental,
e the numbers and ty
ite/area for how long, in what season
nd sim
tourism
, conservationists and responsible GO
boating regulations, placing responsi-
were collected to foster self-
and personnel, and provide awareness
,
backpackers, day
a s
ourist/airport taxes, divers' tags, con-
nance environmentally
National Initiatives
community
and skills training as required.
ing capacities at specific tourist/dive/fishing sites, and
p
anied.
i
ssion fees fro MPAs a
ent vocational rehabilitation training program
ine carry
and, based on best judgmen
plem
of awareness training on tour/dive operators and divem
a. [See A.1.a, b, c, d, e & f above]
b. Develop participatory
opment, avoiding dependence on the "Club Med Model".
c. Im
farmers, fishers and laborers into tourism/sportfishing/ecotourism guides
and related fields to generate the local economy
d. Determ
for islands, protected areas and reef
of resource users, tourist operators
authority
social and economic factors--propos
sional divers, cruise-ship tourists
nighters, etc.) that should occupy
and how accom
e. Promulgate diving and pleasure
bility
f. Institute the use of a portion of t
cessions, adm
revenue to the locations where they
financing conservation programs and protected areas management.
a. Develop a cruise-ship/live-aboard
promote the use of local services
b. Develop options for reception of cruise-ship wastes at local ports, in-
cluding a tipping/disposal fee to fi
facilities.
c. [See A.2.d above]
-Planned Tourism
Threat
2. Uncontrolled, Poorly
Development in Coastal Areas and Off-
shore Islands
3. Uncontrolled Operation of Cruise
Ships and Live-Aboards

---

;
ent
the
the
oted un-
Annex 13
ent by
ent by
Page 3 of 13
stems.
stem of protected
and assistance
and assistance
e
nt of the landless and
and economic opportunity
lishment of sy
ntions related to control of dis-
ental awareness and use of clean
for settlem
determine zoning for land use and
equity
grated land-use planning, good envi-
ARPOL, Cartagena Convention).
a
nufacturing processes as prom
m
Regional Initiatives
iii. [See A.4.iii above]
industrial sector.
and total-quality
conservation through estab
A.1.i, ii, iii, iv, v & vi and A.4.iii above]
.
i
.
[See A.1.i, ii, iii, iv, v & vi above]
ii. Utilize regional and international political lobby
(SICA-CCAD, WB, IDB, IOCARIBE, UNEP/CEP, UNDP, UNEP,
etc.) to facilitate adoption and/or ratification and enforcem
four countries, of international conve
charges of wastes into the sea and coastal areas.
iii. Assistance to facilitate environm
technology
der ISO 9000 and 14000 initiatives; dissemination of practical guides
and seminars by
i
.
[See A.1.i, ii, iii, iv, v & vi above]
ii. Provide financing and assistance
poor in areas based on strict inte
ronmental management and social
and assistance for improved land and resource use sy
i
. [See
ii. Utilize regional and international political lobby
(SICA-CCAD, WB, IDB, IOCARIBE, UNEP/CEP, UNDP, UNEP,
etc.) to facilitate adoption and/or ratification and enforcem
four countries, of international conventions related to control of oil
spills in the Wider Caribbean (M
i. Technical assistance and training in the preparation and enforcem
of watershed management and zoning plans; promote the use of habitat
mapping among parameters used to
biodiversity
areas
ii. [See A.5.ii above]
iii. [See A.1.v & vi above]
the
e
nt
ent
in
Proposed Actions
e
nt of
and
provem
.
ot spots"
provem
H
nt plans and pro-
). "
and/or enforce re-
s for discharges (or
for the containm
). "Hot spots" should be
e
nt of landless and poor,
stem
ternational conventions relating to
ng aspects of the nature, volume,
s for operation of industrial proc-
ent of reserves.
,
environmental auditing and moni-
itting sy
aspects of the nature, volume, form,
sposal; facilitate im
plementation of watershed manage-
uding land/resource tenure) in water-
of industries in areas where contami-
water quality
ch, frequent monitoring and control
stem
(esp. water quality
watershed manageme
e
nt/resettlem
exploration/exploitation sites/areas;
of waste disposal; facilitate im
e
ters
at the subregional level; including the
anagem
National Initiatives
itting sy
the sea and coastal areas.
e
ters (esp.
of point and non-point sources known or sus-
of waste di
of all oil
equipment for same.
s
for settlem
plans and response capability
ination, recording
development and im
program
ent and active co-m
and enforce regional and in
c. Develop an inventory
ote equitable sale, transfer and titling of lands, and provide
B. Inappropriate Inland Resource and Land Use and Industrial Development
, locations and frequency
onitoring of selected param
a. [See A.1.a, b, c, d, e & f above]
b. Ratify
disposal of wastes into
nation is known or suspected, recordi
form
of current licensing/perm
esses based in part on this inventory
toring of selected param
indicated for more research, frequent monitoring and control.
a. [See A.1.a, b, c, d, e & f above]
b. Intensify
and prom
technical assistance for appropriate land and natural resource use, includ-
ing sustainable agriculture to support the tourism industry
c. Develop an inventory
pected of contam
locations and frequency
current control and/or licensing/perm
runoff) of agricultural operations based in part on this inventory
m
should be indicated for more resear
a. [See A.1.a, b, c, d & f above]
b. Develop an inventory
develop contingency
and control of oil spills and related accidents. Ratify
gional and international conventions relating to cleanup of oil spills
sea and obtain necessary
a. Participatory
ment plans and zoning based on economic, social, cultural and environ-
mental parameters, preferably
establishm
b. [See A.5.b above]
c. Develop updated inventories of natural resources, current land uses
and socioeconomic parameters (incl
sheds as a basis for preparation of
grams.
i
thout
agement Practices
ation in Coastal Areas
Man
i
thout Adequate Environmental Engi-
Threat
4. Industrializ
w
n
eering and
5. Unplanned, Uncontrolled Small Scale
and Industrial Agricultural Development
in Coastal Areas
6. Petroleum Exploration and Develop-
ment in Fragile Areas and/or w
Adequate Environmental Engineering
and Management Practices
1. Conversion of Fragile Lands to Agri-
cultural Uses in Upland Watersheds and
Riparian Areas

---

ent
ent
Annex 13
Page 4 of 13
ent accounts,
ic alternatives to
e
nt.
and assistance
and assistance
ent restrictions, etc.)
stem for recording fish-
powerm
bilaterals, etc.) to facilitate
etc.) to facilitate GO and
itigation and enforcem
to industrial fishers to reduce
als from countries in the region to
uniform sy
tical m
to national and local government ac-
tion of the environmental costs of
ental monitoring programs.
Regional Initiatives
stem of incentives
ent into national and local governm
fisheries policies and regulations (closed season,
its, no-take T&E species, equipm
phasis on decentralization and local em
e. Convene seminars with GO offici
present and discuss integrated land-use/natural resources planning, with
em
i. Technical assistance and training in the preparation and enforcem
of land-use and zoning plans.
ii. Publication and dissemination of practical guides for the preparation
of sector-specific EIAs and building/construction codes for relevant
sectors.
iii. Technical assistance and training of GOs and NGOs in the prepara-
tion of sector-specific EIAs, prac
strategies.
iv. [See A.4.iii above]
v. Utilize regional and international political lobby
(SICA-CCAD, WB, IDB, UNDP, UNEP,
GO and private sector officials' incorporation of the environmental
costs of industrial development in
counts, including permanent environmental monitoring programs.
i. [See B.2.i, ii and iii above]
ii. Utilize regional and international political lobby
(SICA-CCAD, WB, IDB, UNDP, UNEP,
private sector officials' incorpora
transport developm
including permanent environm
i. Facilitate uniform
size/catch lim
throughout the region, based on regional conditions and fisheries in the
MBRS. Propose a sy
their fleets and fishing activities, and propose econom
current fisheries practices; propose a
eries harvests/landings and develop a database for assessing trends for
sustainable fisheries and conservation purposes.
posi-
Proposed Actions
ative
stem
to prepare
onitoring
).
ote voluntary
com
stem
ental indicators (esp.
p
liance; prom
ent of zoning and protected areas
plementation of land-use plans and
delines for preparation of EIAs and
developer, NGO) capacity
ontamination and impact, as a basis
delines for preparation of EIAs and
eclining stocks, saturation of fishing
nd local GOs in reforming their gov-
itigation com
water resources, ecosy
land and water resources, ecosy
tal regulations (ISO 14000).
stems of permits for industrial processes,
National Initiatives
line and decentralize planning and norm
land development and industrial processes.
onitor m
at the subregional level.
for construction.
onitoring of selected environm
development and im
C. Overfishing and Inappropriate Aquaculture Development
).
odel to stream
t
s.
e
ters, preferably
Development of local (municipal,
d. Provide assistance to national a
ernance m
procedures, and integrated enforcem
regulations.
e. Lift subsidies favoring lowland extensive cattle ranching and logging
in upland watersheds, and charge the real costs for water and energy
services derived from watersheds, including their environmental and
social cos
a. Participatory
industrial zoning based on economic, social, cultural and environmental
param
b. Development of sector-specific gui
standards and codes for
c.
EIAs and enforce and m
compliance with environmen
d. Development of inventories of
tion/condition, and point sources of c
for improvement of current sy
and to facilitate m
water quality
a. [See B.1.d and B.2.a and c]
b. Development of sector-specific gui
standards and codes
c. Development of inventories of
composition/condition and socioeconomic parameters as a basis for land-
use plans and routing of transport corridors, and to facilitate m
of selected environmental indicators (esp. WQ)
a. Modernize fisheries laws and regulations considering new realities of
equipment (fishfinders, GPS, etc.), d
fleet, and alternative resource utilization (sportfishing, tourism
i
th-
th and En-
ronmental Engineer-
sport Infrastructure
i
thout Adequate En-
eries Practices
p
o
rt Fish
d
S
Threat
2. Inland Industrial Development w
out Adequate Envi
ing and Management Practices
3. Building of Tran
(Roads, Airports) w
vironmental Engineering and Contingen-
cies for Socioeconomic Grow
vironmental
1. Unsustainable Industrial, Artisanal
an

---

wa-
for
stems
trinational
a
intenance
depreda-
Annex 13
and
ecosy
for replenish-
and standard
Page 5 of 13
e
rican Biological Corri-
and needs for conservation.
(Belize/Mexico)
ity
As with linkages to regional and
i
elds and conservation.
trial fishers in transboundary
a regional strategy
species of interest from
onal
fisheries cooperatives & industrial
management of a bi-national MPAs
-Bacalar Chico) and trinational
MBRS countries.
estuaries--nurseries for reef and
r recruitment of larvae and fry
bio-prospecting policy
modern monitoring equipment (im-
the Meso-Am
siting, construction and contingency
fo
erve the tourism resource. Support the
e
teorological and oceanographic data)
ble y
oting the SPAW Protocol. Promote
ces; distribute educational & public
Regional Initiatives
s for m
i
nars and practical on-site training of GO and
in aspects of
e
tered buoy
,
telem
stem of coastal and MPAs in the Gulf of Honduras.
ii. Develop and/or expand use of
agery
for locating spawning aggregations, nutrient upwellings, and other pa-
rameters useful in assessing productiv
iii. Provide regional sem
NGO staffs in aspects of vigilance and enforcement, research and moni-
toring, both to promote sustaina
iv. Promote the formation on bi-nati
(Belize/Guatemala/Honduras) fishers' associations as fora for resolution
of conflicts among artisanal and indus
ters and training in best practi
awareness & best practices media to
interests; support establishment and
between Belize and Mexico (Xcalak
sy
v. Promote the MBRS Section of
dor in order to ensure linkages of reef, lagoon and estuary
along the entire coast, especially
reef organisms, as well as to cons
establishment and management of MP
international organizations prom
signature of the SPAW Protocol by
i. Facilitate training-of-trainers for sustainable aquaculture in MBRS
countries, especially
planning.
ii. Promote aquaculture operations as
ment of stocks in local lagoons and
open water fishes.
i. Assistance to develop a uniform
regulations, both to facilitate bio-prospecting and to ensure m
of composition of reefs, protection of
tion, and patent rights.
Proposed Actions
accurate
coastal areas (la-
stem of marine pro-
plans in case of hurri-
from
p
liance with these regula-
to increase stocks of T&E
closed seasons and areas, size
r
estrictions; develop an
exploited.
its, with specified collection
ally
industrial and artisanal fisheries
rategy
tegrated coastal zone management
ring com
ained personnel and judicial process
ent
fishing boat permits (esp. Honduras
f
acilitate vocational rehabilitation of
sites designated for same under ade-
hment of lagoons and estuaries with
perm
onito
e in aquaculture operations.
i
elds;
.
National Initiatives
e, and equipm
have traditionally
s of MPAs as a st
economic importance.
stem
prove sustained y
prepared land-use plans for in
its, quotas on volum
b. Provision of needed equipment, tr
to enforce fisheries regulations, especi
lim
and permanent program for monitoring
harvest/landings that include fishing locations.
c. Reduce the number of industrial
and Mexico) through attrition and the use of incentives; strengthen re-
strictions on trawling in known seagrass and reef areas, and sites of sea-
sonal spawning aggregations of species at risk.
d. Promote technical and awareness training to industrial and artisanal
fishers to im
artisanal fishers to sportfishing, diving and coastal/aquatic-ecology
guides; protect the rights of artisanal fishers (esp. indigenous groups) to
the resources that they
e. Promote aquaculture for replenis
species at risk or of
f. Consolidate sy
and other species under stress (Hol Chan Marine Reserve experience);
include sites of spawning aggregations within the sy
tected areas.
a. Restrict aquaculture operations to
quately
[See A.1.a, b, c & d above]
b. Develop clear guidelines and regulations for operation of aquaculture
operations, including preparation of contingency
canes, flooding and accidents; m
tions.
c. Restrict or prohibit collection of larvae and fry
goons, estuaries, beaches) for us
a. Development of regulations and
areas and monitoring of concessions.
Threat
2. Inappropriate Development and Op-
eration of Aquaculture for Shrimp, Tila-
pia and other Species
3. Uncontrolled Bio-prospecting

---

-
the
Annex 13
ent by
Page 6 of 13
and assistance
ships, control of oil spills, etc.
ntions related to safe navigation,
m
stance and training to facilitate com
enforcement of shipping and pollu-
ons and treaties among nations of the
Regional Initiatives
i. [See A.1.i, ii, iii, iv, v & vi]
i. Utilize regional and international political lobby
(SICA-CCAD, WB, IDB, IOCARIBE, UNEP/CEP, UNDP, UNEP,
etc.) to facilitate adoption and/or ratification and enforcem
four countries, of international conve
ports operations, control of wastes fro
in the Wider Caribbean (MARPOL, Cartagena Convention, etc.).
ii. Provide financing, technical assi
pliance with international conventi
MBRS to pool resources for mutual
tion control regulations and conventions (national and international),
and response to contingencies (accidents, collisions, spills, etc.).
to
-
Proposed Actions
relating
equip-
pacts and
plans.
im
movement of
, Shipping and Navigation Practices
ent and training for
c
onventions
a
ge, likely
proved and safer ship-
plans and response capabil-
determine the levels of risk asso-
in the sea, etc.; update relevant
ental dam
international
comprising all aspects of naviga-
al policies and contingency
stowage, transboundary
pes of cargo and ships that normally
-sound disposal facilities.
tally
National Initiatives
of all ty
s of environm
en
ent and control of oil spills, founderings, groundings,
a
terials, cleanup of oil spills
D. Inappropriate Port Management
and/or enforce regional and
i
ng the plan.
for the containm
e
tric and navigation charts, etc. to facilitate im
a. [See A.1.a, b, c, d, e & f]
b. Develop an inventory
come into ports or sail through area and
ciated with these in term
probable areas affected; develop contingency
ity
collisions and related accidents; and obtain equipm
apply
c. Ratify
control of wastes from ships, safe
hazardous m
legislation and regulations to reflect these; and obtain necessary
ment for same.
d. Modernize all navigational aides, communication equipment, bathy
m
ping; prepare a port management plan
tion, transfer of cargo, waste dispos
e. Develop options to receive ship wastes at local ports; tipping/ disposal
fees to finance environm
i
thout
i
thout Adequate Environmental Engi-
Threat
1. Construction of Ports, Jetties, Piers,
Oil Terminals and Dredging of Channels
w
neering and Construction Practices
2. Port and Shipping Operations w
Adequate Navigational and Environ-
mental Management Practices

---

stem
Annex 13
onitoring
Page 7 of 13
onitoring sy
e
thods for coral
anent m
tical methods, net-
e
ters and m
to international organizations
ram
acteristics, bleaching, diseases), &
gion. Provide financial and technical
ent, training and technical assistance.
a
redness, sector-specific contin-
llection & analy
Regional Initiatives
pacts of anthropogenic uses within the MBRS]
ent of a regional coastal zone m
,
tourism, aquaculture, ports, etc.), and provide
i. Facilitate preparation of regional guidelines for
ental im
) levels.
-including standardization of pa
onitoring for the MBRS re
active in these activities (CARICOMP, NOAA,
position, condition/growth char
s, including provision of equipm
plans (industry
ee E.2.i]
te negative environm
i. Facilitate developm
with uniform parameters, data co
worked throughout the MBRS, with links
already
IOC/IOCARIBE, WMO, FAO, CPACC, ITSU, U.S. Hurricane Forecast
Center, etc.)- reef (com water quality m assistance to achieve regional efficiencies of scale for perm program
land-use planning and disaster prep
gency
technical assistance for their preparation at the national and subregional
(transboundary
i. [See E.1.i]
ii. [S
i. [See E.1.i]
i
. [See E.1.i and E.2.i]
i
. [See E.1.i and E.2.i]
e
-
ents
, cur-
Proposed Actions
namics
.
, TSS, DO,
u
lators, preda-
plans for tropi-
and diseases in
s (especially
ena which can exacerba
stem
limato-Meteorological Phenomena
defenses.
i
cs of water quality
, coral disease dy
nam
, pH, transparency
sting for other parameters, such as
ing areas prone to flooding. Pub-
-occurring phenom
part of an overall integrated coastal
on of coral diseases
indicators (bio-accum
to dy
currents and winds in MBRS coun-
and critical coastal environm
ts to reef ecosy
to natural and anthropogenic phenom-
diversity
ies, mangroves and lagoons. Enforce
w-ly
preparedness), including proper stor-
dunes) as storm
evacuation and contingency
National Initiatives
, currents and winds [See also E.1.a]
perature, salinity
enforce regulations on land clearing and removal
metals, linked
(tem
land-use planning/zoning legislation for coastal areas
pacts of these even
E. Natural Oceanographic and C tanding of these naturally
s and their correlation
drocarbons, E. coli, and te
s
tone/indicator species of
s and hurricanes (disaster
present in the region), ecological
ee E.2.a, b & c]
angroves, beaches, headlands,
e
ters of water quality
a. Improve and fund monitoring of
tries' respective territorial waters, as
zone monitoring program; other parameters to include in this program
are: water quality
nutrients, hy
pesticides or heavy
ena
tors, key
a. Enact necessary
and islands, and strictly
of vegetation on shorelines, estuar
compliance with siting and building standards for structures along the
coast, and prohibit occupation of lo
lish and distribute regulations and guidelines to all citizens via mass m
dia, in order to raise their awareness of the need for such regulations and
their obligations.
b. Recuperate/rehabilitate shorelines
(m
c. Prepare/update emergency
cal storm
age/protection and/or relocation of hazardous and toxic substances.
a. Monitor the im
bleaching), correlating the distribution and levels of bleaching with pa-
ram
b. [S
a. Monitor the incidence and distributi
other organism
rents and winds [See also E.1.a and E.3.a]
a. [See E.1.a and E.2.a, b & c and E.3.a]
a. [See E.1.a and E.2.a, b & c and E.3.a]
endations are to facilitate better unders
stems
m
d Seasonal Currents
l and other Organisms
[The following recom
Threat
1. Predominating an
and Winds
2. Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
3. El Niño/La Niña Events
4. Diseases in Cora
in Coastal and Reef Ecosy
5. Climate Change/Global Warming
6. Earthquakes and Tsunamis

---

Annex 13
Page 8 of 13
oil;
ergen-
e
xico, and Be-
ala
M
icals, sugar, palm
alans, Hondurans and Mexi-
lge water and solid wastes from
ships, & shipping accidents in the
s in the Rio Hondo and New River water-
rs in Puerto Barrios/Puerto Castilla (Guate-
el tanks and loss of lubricants, and/or spill of
pesticides/other chem
aries to Rio Motagua & agricultural & indus-
al, Quintana Roo and Corozal, Belize, and seep-
stes from
Belize by Guatem
stes fro disposal purposes; and (iii) collisions,
edness & contingency plans/capability for em
Rio Motagua watershed of Guatem
Chetum
rds, divers, sport fishers) in Belize
e
Belizeans in Mexico.
nitary and food wastes, oily bi
two sugar refineries (one each in Mexico and Belize) in the Rio
posal from
bergris Caye
elecon & Rio Ulua watersheds of Honduras
large-scale sugarcane farm
coastal drainages & watersheds of Stann Creek, Placencia, Monkey
and derivatives, fertilizer,
oho & Rio Sarstoon of Belize.
coastal drainages & watersheds of Rio Sarstún , Lago Izabal/Rio Dulce
coastal drainages & tribut
ping of sa
s on Am
port operations and urban cente
by boat (live-aboa
unicipal or industrial wa
Rio Cham
Honduras
Honduras; and by som
ala
ala
ping of liquid, solid & hazardous wa
ping of m
ination from
and founderings of ships with rupture of fu
septic system
Guatem
Agricultural runoff from
Organic waste disposal from
Untreated sanitary waste dis
Agricultural runoff from
Agricultural runoff from
Agricultural runoff from
Contam
a
la) & Puerto Cortes (Honduras)
Cross-border tourism
Cross-border industrial and artisanal fishing in
Illegal dum
Matrix 2: Principal Transboundary Issues
Origin of the Threats
a.
sheds (Belize and Mexico)
b.
Hondo and New River watersheds
c.
age from
a.
River, Rio Grande, Rio M
b.
& agricultural and industrial drainages from
c.
trial drainages from
d.
m
a.
lize
a.
cans; Guatem
a.
MBRS, including: (i) dum
ships; (ii) dum
groundings
hazardous cargo (petroleum
and lack of contingency plans/response capability in region
7
. Lack of regional & national disaster prepar
cies and response
o
f
s of
patch
ination
a
ge to
al to Belize
coastal and in-
ical contam
lected barrier reef eco-
a
ny origins as result of
chem
ly affecting ecosystem
edation of reef and fish-
a
natee; and dam
m
ination from
predation of fisheries re-
Bahia de Chetum
ical and/or solid wastes.
s from
ination from
Xcalak-Bacalar Chico to Hick's Cayes in
a
ge to reefs and seagrass beds
s & hurricanes
ination of territorial and international waters,
e
ntation, organic and
s from
Organic-nutrient contam
Sedim
Uncontrolled utilization/depr
Uncontrolled fishing/de
Contam
MBRS contam
Nature of Threat and Location of Impacts
1.
land drainages, especially affecting estuarine and coastal
lagoon ecosystem
City; and fringing, patch and se
system
Belize.
2.
the Gulf of Honduras, especial
coastal estuaries, lagoon, seagrass bed and selected
reefs.
3.
eries resources in the MBRS
4.
sources in the MBRS, especially for lobster, conch, se-
lected finfishes, turtles and m
physical dam
5.
beaches, reefs, seagrass beds, estuaries and tidal wet-
lands with organic, chem
6.
tropical storm

---

,
s
is
e
nt
a
n-
ent
e
rican
proved
, ori-
e
nt of PAs
and col-
a
nagem
Annex 13
a
rine ecore-
s.
sical and bio-
Page 9 of 13
a
rine diversity.
a
nagem
e
rican Barrier Reef
the Meso-Am
building and infor-
ic alternatives for local
,
conservation of protected
sites of the Gulf of Hon-
i
ni-grants to NGOs, con-
threats to the ecoregion
proved m
planning, research and
Integrated Coastal Manage-
's Global 200 Program
F
ing out a biological assessm
b
ling data on phy
in: im
e
nt of local entities for steward-
a
nd the CCAD; (ii) Coastal Zone
priority
tal awareness and strengthening of
W
r
ial, freshwater and m
phasis on cooperative m
eworks, green products for export,
ks (EIA, land-use planning) and
her econom
otes integrated and sustainable m
e use and conservation efforts. To
the use of m
en
rotection and Legislation/LEPPI,
assem
, and protection of m
am
P
is carry
ear project
s
, technical capacity
powerm
ewor
)
onservation priorities and propose action
contingency
phasis on the Meso-Am
and ot
Central American Protected Areas System
, with em
a
),with
e
nt and in protected areas (Punta Manabique
ental
fram
s
part of W
legal fr
ents, Activities
e
nt, public conservation awareness, im
s: (i)
m
echanism
a
rine reserves, tri-national activities in fisheries,
ala/Honduras), Miskito Coast (Honduras/Nicaragua),
e
d at sustainabl
a
nagem
ents to set c
a
nage
believes that conservation efforts should be focused.
F
i
nation for national orgs.
W
e
ters. A second workshop will be convened to assess the
e
nt/COSTAS, which prom
F has sponsored a workshop to identify
W
of coastal and m
ent of coastal resources (fisheries, tourism
ent projects with stakeholders in the region, including a tri-national
a
tion dissem
a
natee protection, ecotourism
onitoring. Has proposed a two-y
Objectives, Compon
Three principal program
which supports consolidation of CAPAS, especially
Biological Corridor, through assistance
and buffer zone m
national and cross-country
alternative financing m
m
Managem
agem
areas), focusing especially on em
ship of resources, in four transboundary
duras (Belize/Guatem
Gulf of Fonseca (El Salvador/Honduras/Nicaragua) and Gandoca/Bocas
del Toro (Costa Rica/Panam
flict resolution, and training in aspects of strengthening governance and
policies in coastal m
and Port of Honduras) with em
Initiative; and (iii) Environm
which supports developing environm
national and regional policy
local and national institutions to address pollution problem
The MACR Ecoregion form
ented to the conservation of 200 terrest
gions where W
WWF, in collaboration with GOs, NGOs and resources-user groups
(stakeholders in fisheries, tourism
to develop a knowledge base for conservation planning, including analy
of threats and opportunities to facilitate a conservation strategy
laborative actions aim
date W
and their root causes and has begun
logical param
results of the assessm
plans.
TRIGOH seeks to develop integrated conservation and sustainable devel-
opm
system
m
resource users and residents, port
m
ment for the Gulf of Honduras
of fisheries, control of water quality
(ongo-
Project
Start/ End
Dates
1996-
2000(2nd
phase prob-
able)
1998
ing)
1996 (ongo-
ing)
Relevance to the Conservation and Sustainable Use of the MBRS
illion
WWF
illion from
illion from
all grant
illion pro-
i
th Funding Level (US$)
25 m
(COSTAS
share is 5.9
m
USAID & 2.2
m
TNC,
& URI)
Currently
funded with a
sm
(PROARCA)
; proposed a 2
m
ject to IDB
Groups(WWF,
NGOs & Com-
National Focal Points/
Counterparts
National and Local
GOs,
munity
TNC, Univ. Rhode
Island, International
Resources Group)
GOs, NGOs, resource-
user groups
NGOs, Community
Groups, GOs, resource-
use cooperatives &
associations
ala
erican
s-
Outreach/Project
Area
All Central Am
Nations
Meso-American Ba-
rrier Reef Sy
tem(Mexico to Hon-
duras)
Coastal, open water,
island and reef areas
of the Gulf of Hondu-
ras (Belize, Guatem
& Honduras)
ala (De-
FUNDAECO,
Matrix 3: Current and Planned Regional Projects/Programs w
erican Caribbean Reef Ecore-
Project/Program Title &
Executing Agency
Regional Environmental Program
for Central Amer-
ica/PROARCA(USAID/CCAD)
Conservation of the Meso-
Am
gion (WWF)
Tri-national Alliance for the Con-
servation of the Gulf of Hondu-
ras/TRIGOH Belize (TIDE,
BELPO, BTIA), Guatem
fensores de la Naturaleza,
FUNDARY,
IDEADS), Honduras (Fundacion
Fasquelle, PROLANSATE)

---

ent
a
nag-
ent
e
nt; (ii)
a
n-
p
fisher-
, energy
activi-
and
onstration
Annex 13
a
nagem
e
nt and par-
ent strategies and
s, and increase
Page 10 of 13
e
nt, shrim
s; (ii) evaluation and
using dem
ented in East Africa
plem
a
nagem
e
nt.
stem
plem
a
nagem
ental education, recovery
ercial species, regional
ent under four sub-projects:
orestry, ecotourism
m
in the Caribbean in m
a
nagem
e agrof
a
rine ecosy
so being im
reserves in 18 countries in a pro-
ter quality. Has rich database, but
tic living organism
developm
unities on coral reefs, fisheries and in
tegic planning; and (v) support for
m
& technical assistance.
and institutional strengthening.
o
rm
unities' participation in coastal tourism
,
and is al
a
rine productivity
e
nt of aqua
ents, Activities
e
nt, sustainabl
m
with the protected areas m
unities. The project seeks to develop networks for
onitoring, aquaculture m
aller integrated conservation and developm
tivities of: resource conservation in watersheds,
m
a
terial assistance to researchers& resource m
s, policy ref
a
nagem
portance to conserve biological diversity
a
nagem
ent.
pacts, and coastal-m
a
rine labs, parks and
e
nt, and artisanal fisheries m
e
teorological physical wa
e
nt, scientific investigation, environm
a
tion exchange; (iv) stra
onitor coastal m
proved m
enting international conventions.
ation system
otes fisheries and aquaculture
a
nagem
to m
a
rine research and m
a
nagem
plem
u
ch data has not been recently analyzed.
o
rm
Objectives, Compon
Prom
m
ies m
Contains a series of sm
projects for the lower watershed of the principal rivers draining into the
Gulf of Honduras in ac
protected areas m
conservation, and integration of transport and port infrastructure with
social developm
Proposes activities in the following areas: natural resources/biodiversity
m
of cultural values, ecotourism
Objectives include: (i) identification of priority areas for m
organizational strengthening; (iii) organizational networks developm
and inform
im
Objectives include: (i) evaluation of the relation between tourism
ties, including im
valorization of local com
conservation of protected areas; (iii) design and im
guidelines for the conservation of biological diversity
projects that link tourism
ticipation of local com
conservation-based tourism
to facilitate South-South cooperation.
Network of 20 m
gram
groves, seagrass beds, benthic com
aspects of m
m
Conservation & sustainable use of regional fish stocks. Includes institu-
tional strengthening, training, research on com
inf
Provides technical & m
ers for im
awareness of the im
)
hase I fi-
Project
Start/ End
Dates
P
nalized in
1995(Phase
II?
Proposal
(since 1997)
Proposal
(since 1996)
1997-2001
1997-2001
1970s (on-
going)
1999-2007
1998-2000
a
r-
illion
funded by
illion
illion
Funding
Level (US$)
13.4 m
Now prim
ily
participating
institutions
3 m
(Phase II); &
local GO
contributions
5 m
(distributed
among 45
countries in
World
Commu-
Commu-
ala
operators &
NGOs,
Groups of Guate-
NGOs,
Groups
National Focal Points/
Counterparts
Belize (Fisheries Dept),
Guatem
(DITEPESCA), Hondu-
ras (DIGEPESCA)
GOs,
nity
mala and Honduras
GOs of Belize, Guate-
mala and Mexico
GOs,
nity
GOs, private-sector
tourism
NGOs in participating
countries
Belize (Fisheries Dept.)
GO Authorities in
countries responsible
for fisheries manage-
ment
GOs responsible for
fisheries management
ala and
erica, At-
erica, Car-
erica, Car-
of Honduras, (Bi-
Outreach/Project
Area
Central Am
lantic and Pacific
Gulf
national between Gua-
temala & Honduras)
Border region among
Belize, Guatem
Mexico
Central Am
ibbean and Pacific
Coasts
Central Am
ibbean and Pacific
Coasts
Caribbean Sea and
coastal areas of 18
participating nations
Caribbean Region
Selected Caribbean
countries
ala and Mexico
Management in African,
Pro-
: Integration of the Tourism
Project/Program Title &
Executing Agency
Project for the Fisheries Develop-
ment in Central Amer-
ica/PRADEPESCA(European Un-
ion)
Plan for Integrated Development of
the Gulf of Honduras (OAS/IICA)
Regulation of the Reserve in the
Border Region between Belize,
Guatem
(OAS/IICA)
Program for Management of Wet-
lands and Coastal Zones(IUCN)
Conservation of Marine Biodiver-
sity
Sector with Coastal Protected Areas
(IUCN/BMZ)
Caribbean Coastal Marine Produc-
tivity
gram/CARICOMP(UNESCO and
various British Institutions)
Caribbean Fisheries Resource As-
sessment-CFRAMP (CIDA)
Strengthening of Fisheries and Bio-
diversity
Caribbean and Pacific Countries
(European Union)

---

e
nt
to
e
nt
e
r, pro-
erica in
Annex 13
provem
Page 11 of 13
o
rld. Organizational
ent of Managem
sical, social, cultural and
ent in Central Am
database networks and Atlantic
of results at local, regional and
er. Has coastal resources inventory
lidate and further develop the Meso-
, depletion of the ozone lay
ate change.
onitor biophy
e
nt agencies via reports, website,
Rapid Assessm
r updates on coral bleaching, disease,
o
nitor reefs in a continuous program
tween natural, anthropogenic and cli-
transf
i
nation
s
, etc. around the W
a
nagem
ponents.
i
nate be
ate change and sea level rise. Includes pilot
ents, Activities
anager fo
onitoring initiative.
tropical storm
ent/AGRRA and
onitoring com
a
tic linkages with ReefBase
m
of organizations to m
e
nt of protected areas, buffer zones and corridor connections.
ic aspects of coral reefs within regional networks); im
e
ters (RAMP) m
a
ge caused by
otes intra-regional sustainable developm
erican Biological Corridor. Includes aspects of: land-use plan-
a
tic changes; supports dissem
Objectives, Compon
Links organizations and people to m
econom
of capacity
discern trends and discrim
m
global scales to coastal/reef m
databases. Acts as data-m
dam
and program
Gulf Reef Assessm
Param
Provide technical guidance to countries to prepare contingencies for ad-
verse effects of global clim
projects, training and technology
and coral reef m
Supporting actions necessary to conso
Am
ning/zoning; conservation and sustainable use of biological resources;
Managem
Prom
aspects of conservation of biodiversity
tection of international waters and clim
(ongo-
Project
Start/ End
Dates
1996
ing)
1997--2001
1999-2004
1997 (ongo-
ing)
)
illion
illion
illion)
Funding
Level (US$)
6.3 m
(670,000 to
each execut-
ing agency
22.6 million
15 m
(under nego-
tiation addi-
tional 25
m
National Focal Points/
Counterparts
Caribbean Sub-
node(CARICOMP,
participating NGOs and
resort operators in
MBRS Region, Univ.
of Miami/ RSMAS,
Univ. of Rhode Is-
land/CRC, Univ. of
Texas, Univ. of Win-
dsor)
GOs in participating
countries responsible
for coastal resources
management & moni-
toring
Mexico
(SEMARNAP/INE,
State GO, NGOs), Be-
lize (DoE, NGOs),
Guatemala (CONAP,
OCREN, NGOs), Hon-
duras
(AFE/COHDEFOR,
NGOs)
OGs, NGOs in partici-
pating countries
Outreach/Project
Area
Caribbean Region
Caribbean (11 coun-
tries)
Meso-American Ca-
ribbean
Central America
stem of Pro-
erica
ent of the Meso-
ent in Central Am
Project/Program Title &
Executing Agency
Global Coral Reef Monitoring Net-
work/GCRMN(AIMS, ICLARM,
IOC, UNEP, WMO, IUCN,
WCMC, URI)
Caribbean Planning for Climate
Change/CPAAC (GEF/OAS)
Establishm
American Regional Sy
tected Areas, Buffer Zones and
Biological Corridors
(GEF/UNDP/CCAD/GTZ/DANID
A)
Regional Promotion of the Envi-
ronm
(IDBFOMIN/GEF/CCAD)

---

-
ic
-
,
s
-
obi-
ent of
ate;
a
ps,
a
ge to
entally
proving
e
nt m
e
teoro-
ents (in-
a
tion
a
pping and
Annex 13
e
nt, contin-
ent of struc-
onitoring of
ental problem
-sound tourism
Page 12 of 13
ent for im
, and sedim
ouths of rivers
a
tion services, includ-
a
nagem
and regula-
e pollution (including
entally
ental inform
onitoring, m
onitoring, and vulnerabil-
a
rine environm
ental awareness; econom
a
ritim
m
s
(hurricanes, tropical
t in areas of: diagnostic analy
Q
sis of environm
e
nt and wind/wave dam
Islands. Assessm
s
is and reporting of m
ent of the Marine Environm
e
nt quantity
ovides technical assistance, train-
ena including: weather/clim
of the accords set out in the Con-
ntion) and its protocols(CEPPOL,
ng of coral reefs), strategic plan-
nge of inform
and best-practices guides. CEN
environm
dim
unities in the Gulf of Honduras and
nom
of legal, policy
sport, W
m
on Bay
onitori
ance in developing environm
g
aps on key physical and resource use
a
jor ports; and a regional action plan for
to wave action of Hurricane Mitch,
ting countries, including m
e
ntation.
entation
com
a
ges, se
e
nt tran
pacts of sedim
s provide suppor
ation
collection of environm
onsoons, drought). Maintains extensive m
ents, Activities
plem
Services seem to be underutilized by MBRS coun-
diagnostic analy
e
nt/reform
e
work for control of m
onsoons. Also pr
ent of accretion and erosion in m
and contingencies.
ent of dam
provem
ent fram
onitoring and tracking of storm
,
currents, sedim
s
to encourage control of land- and sea-based pollution; dem
e
support on instrum
clones and m
just concluded.
e
try
a
ge to shallow reefs due
i
der Caribbean (Cartagena Conve
, LBSMP). Program
m
.
s
, El Niño, La Niña, m
p
liance with international conventions); institutional strengthening at
a
pping); public participation and
m
p
erature; m
echanism
a
ngrove, seagrass and estuary
aging of natural processes and phe
ages and databases.
Objectives, Compon
Established to support im
vention for the Protection and Developm
the W
SPAW
sis/research of resource conditions in coastal-m
cluding pollution detection and m
ning and project preparation, assist
sound technologies for sewage control, environm
workshops and training. Has broad ra
ing an excellent website, publications
Program
tries
Proposes a transboundary
in project area to fill inform
issues (including navigation, port facilities, waste m
gencies, etc.); im
tory/enforcem
com
local, national and regional levels; training and equipm
national and transboundary
(bathy
ity
m
onstration pilot projects for the m
navigational safety
Diagnostic assessm
lization of coral reefs, and im
m
Bay Islands. Assessm
draining into Gulf of Honduras and
tural dam
extent of coral bleaching, black band disease, etc. (objectives to be reas-
sessed in Sept. 1999).
Acts as clearinghouse for collection, analy
logical data taken in all participa
tropical cy
ing and som
Provides assistance and carries our research and m
im
oceanography, currents, tides, water quality (physiological/biological) and
tem
storm
im
(ongo-
Project
Start/ End
Dates
1992
ing)
Under
preparation
(GEF Block
B)
1999-2001
Ongoing
Ongoing
(several
projects)
illion+
Funding
Level (US$)
5 m
(proposed)
1.13 million
ala
e
teoro-
ala
e transport in-
,
DGA-
)
a
ritim
National Focal Points/
Counterparts
Mexico
(SEMARNAP/INE,
EPOMEX), Belize
(CZMA&I), Guatem
(CONAMA, INGUAT)
Belize (CZMA&I),
Guatem
(CONAMA), Honduras
(SERNA),NGOs
(TRIGOH), port and
m
dustry
SICA/CCAD,
COCATRAM
Fundacion VIDA,
PROARCA/Costas
(others to be deter-
mined?
GOs responsible for
meteorological moni-
toring in participating
countries
GOs responsible for
administration of water
resources, rivers,
oceans and m
logical monitoring
ala,
Islands,
Outreach/Project
Area
Gulf of Honduras
(Belize, Guatem
Honduras)
North Coast of Hon-
duras, Bay
Gulf of Honduras
Entire Region
Entire Region
e
m
ation
,
B
s-
e Trans-
W
ental Pollu-
ental Inform
stems for the Man-
Protected Areas and
Islands Coral Reefs and
ent of Environm
ent of Marine and Coastal
Project/Program Title &
Executing Agency
Caribbean Environment Pro-
gramme(UNEP/RCU)(i) Pro-
gramme for Assessment and Man-
agem
tion/AMEP; (ii) Programme for
Information Sy
agem
Resources/ CEPNET (IDB/Wider
Caribbean Region Marine and
Coastal Environm
Network);(iii) Regional Program
on Specially
Wildlife;(iv) Caribbean Environ-
mental Network/CEN (USAID)
Gulf of Honduras Maritim
port Pollution Control Project
(GEF/IDB; also potentially
UNDP or UNEP)
Assessment of Damage to North
Coast, Bay
other Intertidal and Subtidal Sy
tems (USGS)
World Meteorological Monitoring
Program; World Climate Program;
and Ibero-American Regional Cli-
mate Program (WMO)
North American Aquatic and At-
mospheric Administration (NOAA)

---

-
Mi-
ental
ent Pro-
etric
.
of 1999,
o
rld Bank,
Annex 13
ent and
of Highly
stem
e
nt, watershed
ponent of Ocean
s
-Caribbean; (vi)
in May
Page 13 of 13
ental Pollution Pro-
IDB, W
e
rsal Recruitm
a
rning Sy
a
nagem
ics; (viii) Bathym
a
ge assessm
u
tual assistance. Pro-
i
W
Oceanography
ent and coordination of the
s
, ocean services and related
rine Ecosystem
Union, Spanish, Dutch, Swed-
ental dam
ill be funded by
land-use planning and zoning, pro-
velopm
Caribbean Environm
e
nts, including a Regional Environm
ong others: (i) Regional Com
ponent for the Global Sea Level Observing
ents, Activities
otion, de
ponent for the Global Ocean Observing System
e
nt and environm
r Governm
ate Change; (ii) Fishery
a
nagem
Research; (vii) Coast Beach Dynam
a
rine scientific research program
e
nt, disaster preparedness,
-GLOSS; and (xiv) Caribbean Tsunam
s
/projects include, am
; (iv) Coral Reef Monitoring and Research, Cooperation with
erous project in integrated coastal resources m
stem
a
nagem
onitoring have been proposed and w
Objectives, Compon
Responsible for the prom
IOC's m
activities, including training, education and m
gram
Processes and Clim
gratory and Straddling Species; (iii) Tropical Dem
gram
AGRRA and CARICOMP; (v) Large Ma
Ecotourism
Chart of the Caribbean Sea: (ix)
ject-CEPPOL; (x) Cooperation with Contingency Plans for Oil Spills; (xi)
Hurricane Effects & Mitigation on Coastal Zones in the IOCARIBE Re-
gion; (xii) Regional Com
GOOS; (xiii) Regional Com
Sy
Based on the Consultative Group Meeting in Stockholm
num
m
tected areas m
m
UNDP, UNEP, USAID, CIDA, European
ish, Japanese and othe
and Disaster Mitigation Project (IDB).
Project
Start/ End
Dates
1982(ongoin
g)
1999-
2020(most
projects still
in planning
stages)
illion
Funding
Level (US$)
500 m
FAO,
CARICOMP,
CPACC,
National Focal Points/
Counterparts
GOs responsible fro
marine-coastal re-
sources research and
management done in
collaboration with
NOAA,
OAS,
UNEP, GEF, IWC,
ITSU, U.S. Hurricane
Forecast Center
National and local GOs
and NGOs
Outreach/Project
Area
Entire Region
Honduras, Guatemala
ental Oceanographic
Project/Program Title &
Executing Agency
Intergovernm
Commission--Subcommission for
the Carib-
bean/IOCARIBE(UNESCO)
Post-Mitch Reconstruction (Various
Bi- and Multi-lateral agencies)

---

Annex 14
Page 1 of 9
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 14
Legal, Policy and Institutional Analysis: Executive Summary
Instituto de Derecho Ambiental y Desarrollo Sustentable
-IDEADS-
Resumen Executive del Informe final
Diagnóstico sobre Armonización de Legislación, Políticas y Coordinación Institucional para el
Manejo del Sistema Arrecifal del Caribe Mesoamericano
(SAM)
Consultoría Requerida por el Banco Mundial Contrato No. 7107830
Consultores Regionales
Caroline Amilien
Yuri Giovanni Melini
Alejandra Sobenes
Edmundo E. Vásquez Paz
Consultores Nacionales
Julio Rendón Cano (Honduras)
Candy González (Belize)
Jeannette de Noack (Guatemala)
Raquel Gutiérrez (México)
Guatemala, Marzo 2000
Introducción:
El presente informe tiene como objetivo primordial aportar a la Coordinación del proyecto una idea lo
más concreta posible sobre la "dimensión" que deberá tener el componente "Legislación, Políticas y
Coordinación Regional" en la fase de ejecución del proyecto.
Esta razón es la que explica el formato en que se presenta, orientado a la rápida identificación de
actividades o temas que deberían ser tratados en la fase de ejecución. Aporta elementos para
dimensionar la cantidad de trabajo, los temas que deberían tratarse y la metodología que debería
emplearse para su tratamiento.
El informe consta de 4 partes, a saber:
1. Descripción de la Metodología;
2. Informe General de Hallazgos y Actividades Recomendadas;
3. Conclusión / Recomendaciones al diseño del PDC; y
4. Anexos (como ejemplos del desarrollo de los temas)
En lo que corresponde a la parte "3. Conclusión/Recomendaciones al diseño del PDC", deseamos que
quede claro desde un principio que se trata de recomendaciones para que sean consideradas por parte
de los componentes del proyecto. Serán los otros componentes del proyecto lo que, considerando

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Annex 14
Page 2 of 9
nuestros planteamientos, decidan en última instancia qué temas y en qué profundidad deberán tratarse
en el PDC.
1. Metodología
A continuación se presenta tanto la metodología empleada para la recabación de la información básica
en los temas Pesquerías, Biodiversidad, Contaminación de Agua, Ordenamiento Territorial y Turismo
y sus aspectos normativo, de políticas e institucional, así como la metodología que se recomienda sea
empleada durante la fase de ejecución del proyecto.
1.1. Metodología para la recabación de información básica.
Para la recabación de la información básica correspondiente al componente "Legislación,
Políticas y Marco Institucional" se diseñaron unos Cuadros para ser llenados por parte de los
consultores en México, Belice, Guatemala y Honduras. Los Cuadros tienen los siguientes
contenidos
I. Legislación:
I.A. Normas Aplicables (incluyendo traslapes relevantes, vacíos normativos,
contradicciones, grado apreciado de cumplimiento y recomendaciones preliminares)
I.B. Mecanismos de Control y Vigilancia (incluyendo identificación de entidades
competentes, poderes o facultades de sus empleados o funcionarios, vacíos legales
para cumplir con control y vigilancia por parte de las entidades encargadas y
recomendaciones preliminares)
II. Políticas
II.A. Descripción de Política (incluyendo identificación de políticas existentes, vacíos
y recomendaciones preliminares)
II.B. Efectividad de las Políticas (apreciación sobre grado de concordancia entre
políticas y normativa aplicable, apreciación sobre el grado de cumplimiento de la
política, recomendaciones preliminares para coordinar las políticas con la legislación,
las políticas entre sí y para mejorar la implementación de las políticas)
III. Marco
Institucional
III.A. Descripción de entidades competentes (incluyendo mandatos por la ley, vacíos
en el mandato y recomendaciones preliminares)
III.B. Grado de cumplimiento del mandato (incluyendo apreciación sobre el grado de
cumplimiento del mandato y recomendaciones preliminares)
III.C. Relaciones entre instituciones y con el público (incluyendo mecanismos de
coordinación interinstitucional existentes así como mecanismos de colaboración y
coordinación con entidades equivalentes en los países vecinos, identificación de
espacios legales para participación pública, identificación de traslapes institucionales,
recomendaciones preliminares)
El sentido de recabar esta información fué doble: 1. Constituir una base bastante completa de datos
ordenados en los aspectos de interés para el Componente, de manera tal que, durante la fase de

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Annex 14
Page 3 of 9
ejecución del proyecto, pueda servir de base y referencia para el análisis más profundo que se deberá
realizar para poder llegar a la elaboración de recomendaciones puntuales; (productos de la fase de
ejecución) y 2. Contar con una panorámica bastante detallada de la situación en los aspectos
normativos, de políticas e institucionales, así como criterios consistentes para el "diálogo" que se
deberá desarrollar durante la fase de ejecución con los otros componentes para llegar a priorizar y
decidir qué temas, qué normas, qué políticas y qué instituciones deberán ser sujetos de un tratamiento
puntual. Esta información se incluye como anexo "Informes Nacionales"
1.2. Metodología a emplearse durante la fase de ejecución del proyecto.
Dentro del aspecto metodológico, es importante señalar dos principios básicos que se sugiere
rijan el procedimiento de trabajo de este componente en la fase de ejecución del proyecto. (En
este planteamiento asumimos como ente ejecutor de este componente al IDEADS).
El primero de ellos consiste en entender que la labor del IDEADS y sus consultores será de
tipo instrumental y complementario con respecto a los criterios y prioridades emanados de los
componentes. Dicho de otra manera: Aunque el Instituto contará con una buena base
informativa sobre los aspectos que son de su competencia (normas, políticas y marco
institucional en México, Belice, Guatemala y Honduras, referidos a los temas Pesquerías,
Biodiversidad, Contaminación de Agua, Ordenamiento Territorial y Turismo) y formulará una
propuesta básica de trabajo, deberán ser los restantes componentes los que decidan, en su
momento y de manera definitiva, qué normas, qué políticas y qué instituciones deberán ser
tratados puntualmente. El Instituto contribuirá a esta toma de decisiones presentando sus
propios criterios y argumentos.
Al respecto, en el seno del Grupo de Trabajo No. 1, Taller realizado en Belize City, se
elaboraron algunas directrices generales que se recomienda seguir al componente
"Legislación, Política y Marco Institucional", a saber:
a.
El Objetivo General del trabajo en Legislación y Políticas debe ser "que la
legislación y las políticas correspondientes a los campos temáticos que se determinen
sean armónicas y compatibles a nivel de la región en cuestión";
b.
Para la labor de armonización y compatibilización, debe darse tratamiento prioritario
a las normas y políticas que estén más próximas a los usuarios (las de menor
jerarquía y las más específicas);
c.
Para la labor de armonización y compatibilización, debe darse tratamiento prioritario
a las normas y políticas que incumban a los que afectan más directamente o estén
más próximos a las áreas temáticas a tratarse. En segunda instancia se debe buscar
aquellas que incumban a los que afectan indirectamente o estén más alejados;
d.
Como criterio para seleccionar en qué leyes y políticas se deberá trabajar, es
conveniente dar prioridad a aquellas que sean menos conflictivas y prometan una
mayor esperanza de viabilidad política (voluntad política) y viabilidad social y
económica;
e.
Para el trabajo en el ámbito de la coordinación regional, es conveniente no pensar en
la creación de nuevas instituciones sino que en el fortalecimiento de lo que ya existe
(ejemplo TRIGOH) y en funciones o instancias de "coordinación regional";

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Annex 14
Page 4 of 9
f.
Como pauta metodológica, es importante que el trabajo en armonización de
legislación y política se haga en función tanto de la prioridad temática apuntada por
los otros componentes como a partir de listados priorizados de ítems o
requerimientos mínimos explicitados por ellos mismos así como estándares básicos
aportados con sustento técnico, científico, económico y social;
g.
Es conveniente iniciar el trabajo en armonización de normas y políticas a partir de
temas o actividades "generadoras" (que se encuentran en las rutas críticas de los
procesos o flujos correspondientes a los temas priorizados).
Siendo que las anteriores directrices fueron elaboradas como el producto de expertos en varios
de los temas que corresponden a los otros componentes y que se fundamentan tanto en su
experiencia como en las expectativas que tienen del proyecto, consideramos que es
conveniente asumirlas como orientaciones básicas para la manera de proceder en el trabajo de
este componente en la fase de ejecución del proyecto.
El segundo principio básico que seguirá el procedimiento de trabajo en este componente en la
fase de ejecución del proyecto es el del respeto al ejercicio de la soberanía de cada uno de los
países involucrados. En términos prácticos, esto se refiere a que son las instancias competentes
en cada uno de los países las que deben decidir sobre la forma y el fondo de las normas, las
políticas y las estructuras administrativas que deben introducirse, modificarse, etc. Por esta
razón, el IDEADS estructurará sus productos finales correspondientes a la fase de ejecución
del proyecto como listados de recomendaciones o requerimientos que deberían satisfacer las
normas, las políticas y las instituciones nacionales a las cuales se haga referencia.
A este respecto, es importante señalar que el proyecto tiene que tener previsto qué va a suceder
con los productos que presente el IDEADS en la fase de ejecución: a qué autoridad los deberá
dirigir el proyecto y qué tipo de seguimiento piensa dársele para garantizar que sean
efectivamente adoptados.
En los Anexos se presenta un ejemplo ya bastante desarrollado de la forma en que el IDEADS
elaborará su criterio básico de intervención para la segunda fase. Este será el documento que
servirá para la discusión y el diálogo con los otros componentes para efecto de llegar a
determinar los aspectos que deberán ser tratados de manera puntual durante la fase de
ejecución del proyecto.
En el caso de cada tema priorizado (normas, políticas y marcos institucionales específicos)
como sujeto de intervención por parte del componente "Legislación, Políticas y Marco
Institucional", el IDEADS procederá a revisar y analizar el estado actual en cada uno de los
países y a formular un listado de requerimientos que deberían ser satisfechos en cada uno de
ellos (así como aparecen desarrollados en el Anexo).
2. Informe General sobre Hallazgos y Acciones Recomendadas
A continuación, se presenta una Tabla en la cual se incluyen las principales categorías de posible
intervención para el Componente "Legislación, Políticas y Marco Institucional" en la fase de ejecución
del proyecto, sub temas correspondientes y actividades que se recomienda sean realizadas durante la
fase de ejecución del proyecto. Se trata de una síntesis. Una versión más detallada tanto de los
hallazgos como de las Recomendaciones aparece en el Anexo, ordenado según los siguientes temas:
Pesquerías, Biodiversidad, Contaminación de Aguas, Ordenamiento Territorial, Turismo.

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Annex 14
Page 5 of 9
Tema y hallazgos generales
Actividades necesarias en la fase de ejecución del
(categories de intervención)
proyecto y observaciones
I. Marco Legal
a) se constata que falta normativa (vacíos normativos) A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
las leyes que haya que elaborar. Se construirán
listados de recomendaciones puntuales para cada
país de manera tal que la elaboración normativa sea
en ejercicio de la soberanía de cada uno.
b) se constata que existe normativa con calidad de
A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
insuficiente (por ej. Con duplicidad de las
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
competencias, traslapes jurisdiccionales, jerarquías mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
inadecuadas, falta de idoneidad)
las leyes con deficiencia así como esas deficiencias.
Se construirán listados de recomendaciones
puntuales para cada país de manera tal que la
elaboración normativa sea en ejercicio de la
soberanía de cada uno.
c) se constata falta de homologación regional de los
A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
regímenes normativos así como los de criterios
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
técnicos y los estándares técnicos que deben
mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
servirles de fundamento.
las leyes o normas que deben homologarse. Se
construirán listados de recomendaciones puntuales
para cada país de manera tal que la elaboración
normativa sea un ejercicio en la soberanía de cada
uno.
II. Marco de Políticas
a) se constata la inexistencia de políticas sectoriales
A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
explícitas (temáticas) a nivel nacional (vacíos de
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
políticas temáticas)
mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
listados de recomendaciones puntuales para cada
país de manera tal que la elaboración normativa sea
en ejercicio de la soberanía de cada uno.
b) se constata la inexistencia de políticas
A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
institucionales explícitas a nivel nacional (vacíos de componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
políticas institucionales)
mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
los vacíos de política institucional. Se construirán
listados de recomendaciones puntuales para cada
país de manera tal que la elaboración normativa sea
en ejercicio de la soberanía de cada uno.
c) se constata la existencia de políticas sectoriales
A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
(temática) explícitas a nivel nacional, no
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
armonizadas regionalmente
mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
las políticas sectoriales existentes y explícitas que
requiera de armonización regional. Se construirán
listados de recomendaciones puntuales para cada
país de manera tal que la elaboración normativa sea
en ejercicio de la soberanía de cada uno.

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Annex 14
Page 6 of 9
Tema y hallazgos generales
Actividades necesarias en la fase de ejecución del
(categories de intervención)
proyecto y observaciones
d) se constata la existencia de políticas institucionales A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
explícitas a nivel nacional no armonizadas con las
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
otras políticas institucionales nacionales y no
mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
armonizadas con las instituciones homólogas o
las políticas institucionales explícitas que no
equivalentes a nivel regional
armonizan entre sí ni con las entidades homólogas a
nivel regional. Se construirán listados de
recomendaciones puntuales para cada país de
manera tal que la elaboración normativa sea en
ejercicio de la soberanía de cada uno.
III. Marco institucional
a) Se constata la existencia de instituciones
A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
responsables con competencias inadecuadas o
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
deficientes (incluyendo que sus funcionarios no
mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
tengan las facultades necesarias) o la falta de
las diferencias en competencias de las instituciones
instituciones competentes
existentes. Se construirán listados de
recomendaciones puntuales para cada país de
manera tal que la elaboración normativa sea en
ejercicio de la soberanía de cada uno.
b) se constata la presencia de instituciones
A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
responsables o competentes con traslapes
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos míni-
institucionales (vacíos institucionales)
mos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán los
principales traslapes de competencia. Se construirán
listados de recomendaciones puntuales para cada
país de manera tal que la elaboración normativa sea
en ejercicio de la soberanía de cada uno.
c) se constata la existencia de instituciones con
A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
capacidad instalada insuficiente para cumplir con
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
sus funciones y responsabilidades
mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
las deficiencias principales en capacidad instalada
de las instituciones responsables y se someterán al
juicio de los otros componentes para que se discutan
y elaboren recomendaciones. Se construirán listados
de recomendaciones puntuales para cada país de
manera tal que la elaboración normativa sea en
ejercicio de la soberanía de cada uno.
d) se constata la inexistencia de coordinación entre
A partir de las prioridades externadas por los otros
instituciones equivalentes a nivel regional.
componentes y los criterios y requerimientos
mínimos aportados por los mismos, se identificarán
los vacíos de coordinación regional existentes. Se
construirán listados de recomendaciones puntuales
para cada país de manera tal que la elaboración
normativa sea en ejercicio de la soberanía de cada
uno.
A continuación, se enumeran las actividades que se identificaron en el seno del grupo No. 1, Taller
Belize City, y que brindan una interesante pauta para intuir la dimensión que debe tener el trabajo del
Componente durante la fase de ejecución del proyecto (las actividades están redactadas según los tér-
minos de lo que debe ser el trabajo del componente "Legislación, Políticas y Marco Institucional").

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Annex 14
Page 7 of 9
1. Pesquerías
A. Propuesta para la conformación de grupo interministerial de las autoridades de pesca a nivel
regional.
B. Propuesta de requerimientos para la adopción de normas/estándares técnicos para el manejo
sustentable de recursos pesqueros aprovechables armónicos en los 4 países, sobre todo en:
1. Período de veda
2. Artes de pesca
3. Talla de las especies
4. Mecanismos de control y vigilancia.
2. Manejo de Biodiversidad
A. Propuesta de requerimientos para la adopción de normas nacionales armónicas regionalmente
para la efectiva aplicación y cumplimiento de tratados internacionales tales como:
- CITES
- CDB
-
Convenio Interamericano para la Protección de la Tortuga Marina
- RAMSAR
-
Protocolo de Cartagena ­ SPAW
B. Propuesta de mecanismos de coordinación interinstitucional a nivel regional para la mejor
aplicación de los anteriores tratados internacionales.
C. Propuesta de requerimientos a ser adoptados en la normativa nacional para garantizar mejores
acciones de protección de especies amenazadas (p. Ej. Manatí, tortuga, delfín), manejo de la
bioprospección y desarrollo del Sistema Regional de Áreas Protegidas.
3. Contaminación de Aguas
A. Propuesta de requerimientos para la adopción de normas para la descarga desde fuentes
marítimas que sean armónicas en los 4 países.
B. Propuesta de requerimientos para la adopción en la normativa nacional de los compromisos
adquiridos en MARPOL y otros convenios relacionados.
C. Propuesta de requerimientos mínimos para la creación de las autoridades marítimas
encargadas de la aplicación del MARPOL y otros convenios relacionados.
4. Ordenamiento
Territorial
A. Propuesta de requerimientos para la adopción de normativa para la zonificación del espacio y el
ordenamiento de actividades de manera armónica en los 4 países, para:
- Turismo
- Industria
- Agricultura

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Annex 14
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- Asentamientos Humanos
- Pesca
- Otras.
B. Propuesta de requerimientos para la adopción de normativa armónica en los 4 países relativa a
la planificación urbana en ciudades del litoral.
C. Propuesta para la armonización de políticas para el desarrollo urbano en el litoral
5. Turismo
A. Propuesta de Objetivos Generales y Principios Básicos para ser adoptados en las políticas
nacionales sobre Turismo, de manera que se tenga armonización regional. En particular:
contemplar la capacidad de carga, promoción del ecoturismo, adscripción del SAM a la Ruta
Maya (?).
B. Propuesta de requerimientos para ser adoptados en la normativa nacional, relacionados con
instrumentos de política, tales como: incentivos, normas voluntarias sujetas de certificación,
impuesto, etc.
3. Conclusión y Recomendaciones al Diseño del Proyecto
3.1. Conclusión.
Aunque al momento no es posible precisar qué normas, qué políticas y qué instituciones en
particular deberán ser tratadas durante la fase de ejecución del proyecto, puesto que ello, en
definitiva, debe venir de los otros componentes, sí se pueden reconocer algunos elementos
mínimos que pueden aportar al "dimensionamiento" del Componente para la fase de ejecución
del proyecto.
El primero de ellos se refiere a los posibles temas (normas, políticas e instituciones) que
deberán ser tratados como mínimo. Se puede considerar preliminarmente que, como mínimo
se deberá trabajar en los temas/actividades propuestos durante el Taller en Belize City
(producto del grupo No. 1.) y que aparecen en el acápite 2. Adicionalmente a este listado, se
pueden agregar las actividades que aparecen en los Anexos.
También es evidente que, para el tratamiento de los diferentes temas que se decida, el
IDEADS deberá realizar trabajo en todas las categorías mencionadas en el acápite 2 (aunque
haciendo la salvedad que no siembre). Esto es importante tenerlo en cuenta puesto que aporta
una pauta interesante para tener una idea sobre las intensidades de trabajo necesarias y las
actividades colaterales que hay que desempeñar (reuniones nacionales y regionales,
principalmente; así como la necesidad de contar con un consultor principal, encargado de la
coordinación y la formulación final de las propuestas, así como consultores nacionales).
Teniendo a la vista que se trata de 5 grandes tópicos (Pesquerías, Biodiversidad,
Contaminación de Agua, Ordenamiento Territorial y Turismo), 4 países (México, Belice,
Honduras y Guatemala) y 11 diferentes categorías en total para el tratamiento de los 3 temas:
políticas, legislación y marco institucional, resulta evidente que se tratará de un universo de
intervenciones bastante amplio: asumiendo que, como mínimo, se necesitará una intervención
por tópico (5), por país (4) y por categoría (11), sólo ello nos llevaría una suma total mínima
(teórica) de 5x4x11=120 intervenciones...

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3.2. Recomendaciones al diseño del proyecto
En consideración de lo apuntado en la Conclusión (acápite 3.1.) así como lo concerniente a la
metodología a emplearse en la fase de ejecución de este componente, consideramos que lo más
razonable es concebir el Componente "Legislación, Políticas y Marco Institucional" como un
equipo asesor permanente del proyecto durante un número determinado de años.
Contractualmente, este equipo (integrado bajo el liderazgo del IDEADS, con un consultor
principal y consultores nacionales de apoyo en cada uno de los países) podría definirse para
resolver, como mínimo, el listado de actividades ajustado por el Grupo No. 1. del taller en Be-
lize City así como otros elementos de esta misma naturaleza e índole que se decidan durante el
desarrollo del proyecto. Se le deben asignar fondos suficientes para el desarrollo de su trabajo
(honorarios de consultores, viajes y reuniones de trabajo así como para apoyo secretarial, etc.).
Recomendamos emplear una fórmula de tiempo completo inicial y tiempo parcial después.
Concretamente, proponemos la siguiente fórmula:
2 años tiempo completo para la fase de apoyo general a los demás componentes del Proyecto,
lo que implica el desarrollo de mecanismos de coordinación regional.
3 años tiempo parcial para la implementación de acciones concretas de armonización y
estandarización en casos específicos (por ejemplo, armonización de períodos de veda, artes de
pesca, etc.).

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Annex 15
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Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 15
A. STAP Reviewer's Comments
Review of the Draft GEF Project Appraisal Document for the Conservation and Sustainable Use
of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
The project is important, ambitious, very necessary and subject to external risks arising outside the
immediate scope and control of the project design or operations.
Revisions to the project design in the past year have clarified the context in respect of other activities
in the area. They have also addressed issues of communication and coordination particularly in the
context of the workshop convened in June 1999 at the request of CCAD to draft an Action Pan for the
MBRS.
I consider that there is evidence of high level commitment to coordination within and beyond the im-
mediate components of the project and that this commitment should reduce the external risk to an ac-
ceptable level.
A project of this nature is essential to attempts to secure the future maintenance and wellbeing of the
reefs and associated ecosystems of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef Region. The work done to develop
the project to this stage has involved substantial development of trust and recognition of transboundary
issues which have to be addressed collaboratively.
I consider that it is important that the project proceed because it is important to maintain momentum to
build on the basis of shared recognition of problems and acceptance of the need to find solutions.
Comments on project specifics are provided separately below.
RA Kenchington
7 June 2000

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Review ­ Project Specifics
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS)
Key issues
Scientific and technical soundness of the project
The project is scientifically and technically sound.
Identification of the global environmental benefits and/or drawbacks of the project
The project has immense global environmental benefits. The MBRS is an important but en-
dangered ecosystem which is likely to deteriorate seriously over coming decades if measures such as
those contained in the proposal are not put in place.
How the project fits within the context of the goals of GEF, as well as its operational strategies, pro-
gramme priorities, GEF Council guidance and the provisions of the relevant conventions
The project fits clearly within the biodiversity and oceans goals of the GEF. It is a priority
area and has strong links with CBD, CITES and LOS.
Regional context
This is a regional project with highest level support of the participating countries Belize, Hon-
duras, Guatemala and Mexico. The MBRS is a system of global importance and is a significant part of
the heritage, biodiversity and natural resource base of coastal communities of Mesoamerica.
Replicability of the project (added value for the global environment beyond the project itself)
The project is an example of the approach being fostered by the International Coral Reef Ini-
tiative of addressing the conservation and sustainable use of coral reefs and related ecosystems at the
regional scale. Success in this project will provide important working examples for the global commu-
nity.
Sustainability of the project
The aim of the project is to build a sustainable basis for conservation and resource use. There
is highest level commitment of the governments. The project has elements of risk in that it will involve
the development and implementation of sustainable multisectoral management at the local, national
and regional level. The design recognizes and seeks to address that risk through a number of commu-
nity, consultative and educational measures.
In the case of targeted research projects, it will be necessary to address the issue of the extent to
which the project will contribute to the improved definition and implementation of GEF's strategies
and policies, thus paving the way for more effective international, technical cooperation, assistance
and investment projects.
The project as a whole addresses fundamental issues in definition and implementation of GEF
strategies and the achievement of international goals for conservation and sustainable resource use at
the ecosystem and political regional scale. The risk has been mentioned above. The long term viability

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Annex 15
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of the strategies will depend on achieving success stories which can demonstrate the benefits and so
reduce the risk of failure or disinclination to address sustainability.
Secondary issues
Linkages to other focal areas
Linkages to other programmes and action plans at regional or sub-regional levels
The project has a large number of linkages to national, aid funded and NGO programs in all
four countries. These are detailed in Annex 13 (Threat and Root Cause Analysis) Matrix 3.
Other beneficial or damaging environmental effects
The project if successful will lead to an understanding and acceptance in the local and national
financial communities of the high social and economic costs of environmental failure and of attempts
to restore damaged environments. If this is the case there should be increased resistance to attempts to
pursue developments which promise short term bounty but do not address and fully integrate the short,
medium and long term social and environmental costs.
Degree of involvement of stakeholders in the project
The development of the project design has involved extensive work with stakeholders in the
community, professional agencies and governments of the four countries. The design includes a num-
ber of mechanisms intended to maintain and further develop this approach.
Capacity-building aspects
This is directly addressed in the project design with a sound range of training targets for staff
involved as well as training trainers, community educators and teachers to provide the basis for ongo-
ing capacity building.
Innovativeness of the project
The project is ambitious and innovative in that it is dealing at the ecosystem scale with a
shared natural heritage and resource base in a situation with four regional governments of nations at
differing stages of economic development.
Specific Comments on MBRS PAD
B. Strategic Context ­ key performance indicators
I suggest that something be added to promote public recognition also of the importance of the funda-
mental but vulnerable natural economic resource for the people of the region
Component 2. Regional EIS
A related point but if the EIS is to address the processes which influence reef integrity it should clearly
be seen to comprehend information on levels of use, opportunities and social and economic benefits
from uses. If the EIS doesn't itself have such information it will need guaranteed access links to get it.
The concern is to ensure that the MBRS is seen as a core part of social and economic life and not as a
quasi cultural or aesthetic property which is the concern of science and foreign environmentalists.

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Annex 15
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Other comments
P 14. Benefits and target population third dot point. It is important to address the local populations
currently dependent etc but as things develop it will also be important to look at the larger scales of
national and regional costs and benefits. ­The locals are unlikely to get into high-volume low-impact
tourism, indeed they may be disadvantaged or displaced by it but the overall benefits at the national
level and in terms of foreign earnings and at the national and international level in terms of conserva-
tion outcomes. The trick is to ensure that the interests or stake of the locals are taken into account in
the overall cost benefit of any changed usage pattern.
P 15. reference to other projects - Be sure to coordinate with UNEP and other partners in the identifi-
cation of demonstration sites to be supported under the Caribbean regional program of the Interna-
tional Coral Reef Network (ICRAN)'s Strategic Framework. There are clear opportunities for synergy
between the two projects here in terms of MPA management training, monitoring and information ex-
change.
P 17 Indications of borrower commitment, para 3. The signatory status of the countries with respect to
IMO conventions would be clearer in a table where all could see. This may generate some valuable
peer pressure on those project participant countries which have not yet ratified the treaties.
P 21 Sustainability. Para 1 Could usefully reflect the usefulness of transboundary economic analysis
and regional solidarity where the countries trade with the same buyers (e.g., cruise ship operators) and
may be tempted or induced into trading environmental compliance standards for short term economic
returns.
Matrix 3 (Current and Planned Regional Projects/Programs Relevant to the MBRS
I found this very helpful. It certainly indicates the complexity and the scope of coordination.
Matrix 2 (Main Transboundary Threats and Actions Proposed)
Cruise shipping may also be worth mentioning as a transboundary threat. The experience of the last 2
years has shown us that the companies have yet to demonstrate that they can set and maintain accept-
able environmental standards. Indeed it seems to be "smart business" to pressure to achieve exemp-
tions from environmental standards and charges! That may not play well in Miami but given court
cases in New York we should pressure them to meet standards or ship out!
Information Deficiencies and Gaps Affecting the Threat and Root Cause Analysis
Ecological. In addition to the Reef check etc there is a case for monitoring recruitments of fish and
corals which are highly variable from year to year and are probably an important factor in resilience.
Tourism. Also useful to monitor levels of visitor expectation, visitor satisfaction and the direct impacts
of tourism.
RA Kenchington
7 June 2000

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B. Response to the STAP Reviewer's Comments
The project team has reviewed the STAP reviewer's comments and found them to be very supportive
of the project overall. Suggested revisions to the design of specific activities and project performance
indicators will be incorporated during the final stages of project preparation into the final project
document. This will be part of a larger effort to sharpen the expected project outcomes in terms of per-
formance benchmarks and indicators of progress toward achieving objectives on the ground. Based on
these results, not only will project success be measured, but the replicability of specific outcomes de-
termined for scaling up within and outside the region.
Response to Specific Comments:
1. Regional EIS (Component 2) and Stakeholder Benefits. The final design of the EIS will be devel-
oped by the regional technical working groups in a series of workshops, facilitated by technical spe-
cialists in Coral Reef EIS. There is now a large body of literature on the types of monitoring and in-
formation indicators that need to be included in EIS, to assess socio-economic aspects relating to the
sustainability of Coral Reef Ecosystems. These are directly related to the earlier point of ensuring that
the public is aware of the economic importance and benefits derived from the MBRS, as well as the
impacts that use activities may have on the viability of the system. These types of indicators will be
discussed in the regional workshops to develop the data sets that will be included in the MBRS Re-
gional Monitoring and Information System. The overall intent is to develop a user-friendly informa-
tion system that is of use not only to scientists, but to inform decision-making and create a solid con-
stituency in support of measure to conserve an outstanding marine resource.
2. Coordination with ICRAN. There is an ongoing exchange of information between the MBRS Pro-
ject Team and the partners (e.g., UNEP, WCMC, UNF) developing the International Coral Reef Ac-
tion Framework (ICRAN). A review of the draft ICRAN Strategic Framework by the TTL indicated
where synergies may exist between the MBRS project and the proposed Caribbean Regional Program
of ICRAN. These include the selection of demonstration sites in the Western Caribbean, MPA man-
agement training, monitoring and information dissemination. This dialogue will continue through the
Bank's active partnership in ICRI (International Coral Reef Initiative) and ongoing exchanges at the
technical level on activities under its sponsorship.
3. References to Cruise Shipping and the need to adopt uniform standards in the region related to
Port State Control, waste management, waste reception are other commitments under MARPOL may
be taken up on an issue by issue basis through the Policy Working Group, as well as the Sustainable
Tourism Working Group, through dissemination of codes of conduct and design of a regional envi-
ronmental certification scheme for sustainable tourism enterprises. However, it is likely that many of
these issues will be more readily addressed under a complementary regional initiative to control Mari-
time and Marine Pollution in the Gulf of Honduras, by the IDB with assistance from the GEF.
4. Monitoring Tourism Impacts could be integrated into activities under the Sustainable Use Compo-
nent related to carrying capacity assessments for tourism and criteria for the design of environmental
certification programs in this sector.

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Annex 16
Page 1 of 6
Central America Commission on Environment and Development
Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System
Annex 16
Process Framework For Mitigating Potential Livelihood Impacts Associated With
Strengthening Of Marine Protected Areas
1.
MBRS Summary. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS) Project seeks
to protect coral reefs and related coastal ecosystems in the region by promoting their con-
servation and sustainable use. It is a regional project that unites and strengthens efforts in
four countries bordering the world's second longest barrier reef (Mexico, Guatemala,
Honduras and Belize). The principal activities of the MBRS Project will include the:
strengthening marine protected areas (MPAs), development of a regional environmental
information system, promotion of measures to reduce non sustainable practices and adop-
tion of alternative livelihoods in the fishing and tourist industries, environmental educa-
tion, and regional harmonization of coastal and marine resources management through the
coordination of national policies, institutional strengthening, and training. A key aspect of
project preparation has been substantial consultation with stakeholders. A Social Assess-
ment and Participation Plan, which includes activities to ensure active involvement of and
benefits to Indigenous People in the Project area, has been developed (Annex 12 of the
PAD).
2.
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The MBRS has over 60 Coastal and Marine Protected
Areas but many exist only on paper, with little or no on-site management. The Project will help
consolidate a regional system of 15 MPAs, selected on the basis of their significance in relation to
MBRS ecosystem characteristics, biological diversity and ecological processes, and their vulner-
ability relative to development impacts. Hotspots threatening the MBRS were identified during
Project preparation as being in the two transboundary areas (e.g., near the Bay of Chetumal to the
north, and the tri-national boundary area in the Gulf of Honduras to the south).
3.
The Project will assist this network of MPAs through (i) upgrading existing operational
plans (11 MPAs) or drafting new master management plans where none exist (4 MPAs); (ii) estab-
lishment of data baselines and monitoring programs to assess MPA effectiveness (15 MPAs); (iii)
provision of basic equipment, construction of guard houses and small visitor centers in 5 trans-
boundary MPAs; and (iv) cross border cooperation in policy, protection and management of trans-
boundary MPAs. Table 1 identifies the 15 MPAs to be assisted under the Project, and the type of
support to be provided. A map of these areas is attached as an Annex to the PAD.

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Annex 16
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Marine and Coastal Protected Areas to be Support through the MBRS MPA Component
Protected Area
Predominant Ecosystems
Legal
Status of Planning Support to be Provided
Status
1
Banco Chinchorro
Seagrass, reef, cays
Existing
Management plan
OP, modest management
2
Santuario del Manati
Mangroves and seagrass
Existing
Management plan
OP, modest management
3
Corozal Bay*
Mangroves and seagrass
Existing
No plan
MP/OP, modest management
4
Xcalak-Bacalar Chico1 Seagrass, mangrove, reef
Proposed
Plan being pre-
Expand MP,OP, major management
pared3
5
Bacalar Chico1
Seagrass, mangrove, reef
Existing
Management plan OP, major management
6
South Water Caye
Seagrass, mangrove, reef
Existing
Management plan
OP, modest management
7
Glover's Reef
Cays, reef, seagrass
Existing
Management plan OP, modest management
8
Port Honduras
Cays, reef, seagrass
Existing
Plan being prepared OP, modest management
9
Gladden Spit*
Reef (spawning aggregations) Existing
No plan
MP/OP, modest management
10
Sapodilla Cays
Reef, cays, seagrass
Existing
Management plan OP, modest management
11
Sarstoon-Temash*2
Mangroves and estuaries
Existing
No plan
MP/OP, major management
12
Sarstún 2
Mangroves and estuaries
Proposed
Plan being prepared OP, major management
13
Punta de Manabique
Swamp forest, mangrove
Proposed
Plan being prepared OP, modest management
14
Omoa-Baracoa*
Coastal wetlands, mangroves, Proposed
No plan
MP/OP, modest management
swamp forests
15
Utila/Turtle Harbor
Swamp forest, reefs, seagrass, Existing
Plan nearly fin-
Expand MP/OP, major management
lagoons
ished4
1 Consists of one of the two MPAs forming the MPA complex in the Bahia de Chetumal.
2 Consists of one of the two MPAs forming the MPA complex in the Golfo de Honduras.
3 Plan does not include the Bacalar Chico portion of the MPA.
4 Plan only covers Turtle Harbor.
* indicates MPAs to receive new Master Management Plans
major vs modest management refers to equipment package and infrastructure that will be provided

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Annex 16
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4.
No Physical Displacement. To effectively implement the MBRS Project and its com-
ponent on Marine Protected Areas, no involuntary physical displacement or relocation of
people would be required, and none will take place as a part of this Project. This is consistent
with recent Government practice in all four countries and in some (e.g., Guatemala) it is even
prohibited by law. The multiple-use nature of most MPAs in the MBRS, which allows for
strict no-take reserves within a core area, surrounded by zones of increasing levels of use, also
minimizes the likelihood of significant economic displacement.
5.
Potential Impacts on Livelihoods. Nonetheless, the possibility remains that some
Project activities related to the strengthening of Marine Protected Areas, as in those cases
where Management Plans currently do not exist or zoning has not been enforced, might affect
the livelihoods of certain groups living within or adjacent to these sites, through new restric-
tions on their access. This Process Framework outlines the criteria and procedures which the
MBRS Project will follow in such cases, to ensure that eligible, affected persons are assisted
in their efforts to restore or improve their livelihoods in a manner which maintains the envi-
ronmental sustainability and territorial integrity of the relevant protected areas. These criteria
and procedures will be detailed in the Management Plans, existing or to be developed for
these sites and closely linked to the Project's sub-component on Alternative Livelihoods,
which aims to reduce environmental and social impacts through support for alternative in-
come generating activities (e.g., linked to recreational fishing, diving, tourism and MPA man-
agement) In all cases where traditional resource users are affected by new restrictions in ac-
cess or use associated with the Project, the MBRS Project would seek to address the liveli-
hood issues of these persons in a manner which is transparent, just, and in accordance with the
law in all four countries, as well as consistent with the World Bank's Safeguard Policies on
Involuntary Resettlement (OD 4.30), Indigenous Peoples (OD 4.20), and Natural Habitats (OP
4.04).
6.
In the preparation of management plans (i.e., updating operational plans or drafting
new Master Plans), the following actions relevant to the livelihood concerns of residents or
neighbors of MPAs will be carried out. For any given protected area, those steps below that
have already been adequately completed in the past (as in the case of already established
MPAs), would not be repeated, but updated as needed.
Evaluation of Each MPA
7.
(i)
A rapid evaluation of basic ecological and socioeconomic factors and conditions in and
surrounding MPAs, including legal and policy analyses and land tenure issues, will be under-
taken in the context of Marine Protected Area Management planning. In these evaluations, re-
sources used by local populations (type of use, frequency of use, destination) and the cultural
and socio-economic characteristics of the users as well as their level of economic dependency,
will be identified and assessed.
(ii)
An assessment of the need to restrict access to previous users of MPA sites the types of uses
allowed (e.g., through restrictions in fishing gear, location, type and size of species har-
vested) will be carried out along with an analysis of eligibility of these users for economic
mitigation assistance under the Bank's OD 4.30.

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Annex 16
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Consultation and Participation
8.
Project preparation has benefited from a consultative process involving the input of
stakeholders at all levels. A social assessment focusing on local community inputs and profil-
ing was also carried out (see Annex 12 of the PAD). The social assessment methodology in-
cluded field visits, surveys and open-ended interviews with representatives from all key ethnic
and indigenous groups in the four participating countries. Focus groups and discussions with
local experts were held to determine the main issues that were of concern to local communi-
ties with regard to conservation and use of MBRS resources, and how best to ensure their par-
ticipation in project benefits and decision-making in areas directly affecting them.
9.
All four countries currently have laws requiring consultation with local stakeholders
prior to the establishment of protected areas and boundary demarcation. The development of
management plans must also be done in consultation with local populations and interested
parties. Good practice in MPA management planning and implementation encourages the
participation of civil society through the formation of a local advisory committee or multi-
stakeholder group to ensure that all legitimate interests are represented.
(iii)
Local advisory councils, consisting of key stakeholders (such as parties affected by
economic displacement due to MPA existence) in and around MPA sites will be estab-
lished. These stakeholder groups will be consulted on the develop of MPA manage-
ment plans, involved in decision-making and invited to take part in monitoring of
these plans. The local councils could also serve as fora for resolution of conflicts re-
lated to MPA social issues. The analyses carried out in the steps above would be done
with the active participation of local communities through the local advisory councils
or other representative groups.
Identification of Mitigation Measures.
10.
In those cases where new restrictions on the use of resources in MPA sites (e.g., in the case of
MPAs without current zoning or Management Plans, such as in Corozol Bay, Gladden Spit, Sarstoon-
Temash, Omoa Baracoa) result in significant economic displacement of legitimate resource users,
mitigation measures to help offset this economic loss will be supported under the project. Assessment
of the eligibility of affected groups and the kinds of mitigation measures to be provided will be con-
ducted with the participation of local people.
11.
Mitigation measures under the MBRSP will by linked to the Project's Sustainable Use
Component and will focus primarily on assistance in the development of alternative liveli-
hoods that would improve the economic condition of affected people. These include training
in sustainable livelihood activities such as sport-fishing, kayaking, fly-fishing and recreational
diving. For a reasonable post-training transition period, trainees will be provided with the
necessary equipment to become immediately involved in income-generating activities using
the newly acquired skills. For each livelihood scheme considered, the cultural, social and
economical feasibility of the activities to be carried out under the Project will be assessed to
determine their appropriateness and how best to integrate such mitigation measures into the
management plans for the MPA site

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Annex 16
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12.
Other mitigation measures in the context of community development, identified in the
Indigenous Peoples Development Plan (see PAD Annex 12, Social Assessment), may also be
appropriate. These include: a social communications campaign to educate people about the
MBRS and its ecological, social and economic value, a local institutional development plan, a
regulatory framework for the economic development of indigenous and ethnic groups, gender
specific training in small and medium enterprise, technical groups and fora to discuss land
tenure issues and other conflicts which are not necessarily related to MPAs but to resource use
within the MBRS
Incorporation of Alternative Livelihood Schemes
13.
For each livelihood system selected, a program will be designed which shall be in-
tegrated into the Management Plan for the MPA site in question. In the case of Indigenous
People, such assistance will be part of the "Indigenous People's Development Plan" of the
Social Assessment (Annex 12 of the PAD). Management plan preparation associated with
each MPA will be carried out in consultation with surrounding communities and stakeholders,
through the protected area advisory councils to be set up for each MPA.
14.
New restrictions or limitations concerning natural resource use within Marine Pro-
tected Areas will only be enforced after economic mitigation measures are in place.
Financing of Alternative Livelihood and Other Economic Mitigation Measures
15.
Assistance in the development of alternative livelihoods for economically displaced
individuals will be financed through the budget of Part C of the project. Other mitigation
measures, such as those identified in the Participation Plan and Indigenous Peoples Develop-
ment Plan have been budgeted for and integrated into other project components.
Preparation and Implementation Responsibilities.
16.
Preparation of Protected Area Master Management Plans in newly established or
proposed MPAs and related Operational Plans in all Project MPAs will serve as the mecha-
nism for this Process Framework in these areas. Implementation of the Management Plan and
Operational Plan will be the responsibility of government and those institutions (both public
and private), authorized to manage the Protected Areas in question. The MBRS Project staff
will facilitate and monitor progress toward management plan implementation. Certain MPA
management tasks (e.g., management plan preparation and training in alternative livelihood
activities) may be contracted out by the National Authorities to qualified organizations. The
sociologist of the Project Coordination Unit will be responsible for the coordination of all the
activities necessary to ensure participation by indigenous and ethnic communities in the im-
plementation of the Alternative Livelihood Programs.
14.
Monitoring and Evaluation. Independent of supervision by the National Authori-
ties responsible, it will be the responsibility of the MBRS Project, and in particular the role of
the PCU NRM Specialist and the Sociologist, to closely monitor these tasks, including via
periodic participatory assessments by project beneficiaries, with publication of the results
thereof, to ensure that management objectives are being met and to ensure that project goals
are being achieved. Supervision mission by Bank Staff will also be used to periodically

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Annex 16
Page 6 of 6
monitor progress in implementation of the Process Framework and of the MPA Management
Plans and Operational Plans which would serve as the Action Plans for this framework. A
Mid-term Evaluation of the Project will provide a more formal review of progress against
benchmarks and of project performance in this context.
Marea Eleni Hatziolos
L:\Notebook7-24-00\documents\MBRS\P A D\MBRS PAD Final 4-05-01.doc
April 26, 2001 2:05 PM

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Document Outline

• Cover Page
• Currency Equivalents
• Abbreviations and Acronyms
• Table of Contents
• Financial Summary
• Project Development Objective
• Strategic Context
• Project Description Summary
• Project Rationale
• Summary Project Analyses
• Sustainability and Risks
• Main Grant Conditions
• Readiness for Implementation
• Compliance with Bank Policies
• Annex 1. Project Design Summary
• Annex 2. Detailed Project Description
• Annex 3. Estimated Project Costs
• Annex 4. Incremental Costs and Global Environmental Benefits
• Annex 5. Financial Summary
• Annex 6. Procurement and Disbursement Arrangements
• Annex 7. Project Processing Schedule
• Annex 8. Documents in the Project File
• Annex 9. Statement of Loans and Credits
• Annex 10. Countries at a Glance
• Annex 11. Environmental Assessment
• Annex 12. Social Assessment
• Annex 13. Threat and Root Cause Analysis
• Annex 14. Legal, Policy and Institutional Analysis
• Annex 15. STAP Review
• Annex 16. Process Framework for Mitigating Potential Livelihood Impacts

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