By Belize Live News Staff: Bulridge Ltd. is calling for greater clarity in how the Chiquibul region is referenced in public discussions, following comments made on national television that may have unintentionally cast doubt on the company’s legal forestry operations.
The issue stems from a July 3rd segment on 7 News Belize, where Dr. Elma Kay, Chair of the Belize Network of NGOs and representative of the Belize Maya Forest Trust, referenced “the Chiquibul” in a discussion about illegal logging and government justification for forest licenses.
Bulridge Ltd. argues that such generalizations blur critical legal and management distinctions between the Chiquibul National Park and the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. While the former is a protected conservation area, the latter is a managed forest reserve where Bulridge operates under government-issued sustainable forestry licenses.
“There seems to be a lack of understanding that Chiquibul is not one entity,” the company said. “These are two separate areas with different goals, laws, and oversight bodies.”
The company also voiced disappointment that such confusion is being perpetuated by members of the conservation community. According to Bulridge, these misstatements can have “real consequences” on Belize’s local and international reputation in sustainable forestry.
Operating in Belize since 1982, Bulridge Ltd. says it is guided by Sustainable Forest Management Plans and Annual Plans of Operation monitored by the Belize Forest Department.
The company concluded by encouraging more responsible and informed communication regarding forest management and conservation in Belize.
