By Belize Live News Staff: A major undersea internet cable has been cleared to run through Belizean waters, but Belizeans should not expect faster internet from it, at least not yet.
The DOE’s approval of the TAM-1 cable allows it to cross Belize’s territorial sea on its way to linking Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras. The approval does not include a cable landing or domestic connection in Belize.
According to the environmental impact assessment, the route could accommodate a future connection if government decides to pursue one. That would require a separate decision, landing infrastructure, commercial agreements and integration with local telecom networks.
That raises a fair question: what does Belize gain from allowing the cable through one of its protected marine areas?
Part of the route passes through the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, part of the Belize Barrier Reef system. Representatives of marine conservation groups have questioned whether the proposed safeguards are strong enough to protect coral and seagrass.
The approval also comes as Belize is working to protect 30% of its ocean under the Blue Bond agreement, with a proposed expansion near Sapodilla Cayes among the new protected zones.
Supporters say the cable will strengthen regional connectivity and provide backup routes for data across Central America and the Caribbean.
How well the environmental conditions are monitored and enforced will determine whether Belize’s reef pays a price for a cable that, for now, serves its neighbours.
