Making Waves: How SACD’s “River-to-Reef” Expeditions Are Transforming Conservation and Community in Northern Belize!
Photo: SACD
Narrative Note
Author. Samuel Barrett
The Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD) is revolutionizing conservation funding with an innovative, eco-friendly approach! Through the “River-to-Reef” academic expedition hosting initiative, SACD is not only protecting the incredible Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (CBWS) but also empowering local communities—all while securing financial sustainability for years to come.
An Unforgettable Journey
Picture this: students and researchers from across the globe embark on an immersive, conservation-focused adventure in the stunning seascapes of CBWS. Between May 2023 and February 2025, SACD transformed its Tourism Expedition Hosting Facility (TEHF) into a hub for experiential learning, bringing visitors face-to-face with the vibrant marine life and rich cultural heritage of Sarteneja Village, Belize. This groundbreaking initiative is a game-changer, proving that conservation and sustainable tourism can go hand in hand!
Breaking Records & Changing Lives!
SACD has generated an impressive tourism revenue during 2024, covering more than 21% of its annual budget; an unprecedented leap toward financial independence and an increase of nearly 5% compared with 2023. With seven international expeditions hosted in 2023-2024, the initiative has created more than 20 new employment opportunities each year, giving boat captains, tour guides, cooks, caretakers, and drivers the chance to thrive. Conservation isn’t just about protecting nature; it’s about uplifting the communities who rely on it.
Sustainability is at the heart of this initiative. The TEHF was built with eco-friendly systems—including solar power and a hydrostatic septic system—to reduce its environmental footprint and help protect the surrounding Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s a model for green tourism in action. The impact goes beyond infrastructure. A new partnership with Centro Escolar Mexico Junior College (CEMJC) launched a pilot academic collaboration, giving students hands-on experience in conservation and sustainable tourism. This exciting initiative is set to become an annual component of CEMJC’s Sustainable Tourism curriculum, inspiring future leaders in environmental stewardship.
More Than Conservation – A Life-Changing Impact!
This initiative is about more than just protecting marine ecosystems—it’s about forging powerful connections between people and nature. Students have dived into hands-on conservation work, from mangrove restoration and biodiversity monitoring to experiencing the cultural significance of traditional fishing and fostering strong community bonds. By integrating local communities in all aspects of the expeditions, students leave Belize with a deepened understanding of conservation and culture, while local fishers, tour guides, and families benefit from an expanding eco-tourism economy. When nature wins, communities win too.
The Future is Bright – And It’s Just Getting Started!
With four expeditions already secured for 2025, SACD is set for even greater impact. The goal is clear—expand academic partnerships, ramp up marketing efforts, and bring even more visitors to experience the magic of CBWS. By proving that conservation can drive economic growth, SACD is setting a gold standard for sustainable eco-tourism.
Through bold vision, innovative thinking, and an unwavering passion for conservation, SACD is charting a new course—one where nature thrives, communities prosper, and adventure awaits!
