Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala Unite for Rainforest

Quick Smiles:

• Three countries launch a massive biocultural reserve.
• The effort protects lands, heritage, and millions of species.
• Regional leaders celebrate a historic, hopeful partnership.

Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala have joined forces to establish a biocultural reserve spanning the borders of the ancient Mayan empire. This vast region covers more than 14 million acres, protecting both the incredible biodiversity and the rich cultural legacy of the Maya civilization.

Stretching across the second-largest intact rainforest in the Americas, the new reserve is home to majestic pyramids, rare wildlife such as jaguars, tapirs, and quetzal birds, and vibrant communities preserving Maya traditions.

More than two million people live within these protected lands, which are estimated to shelter around seven million different plant and animal species.

“We should be proud to be able to tell the world [that] we have united our will to preserve and restore the legacy of this extraordinary biological and cultural wealth,” said Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. “We are not only protecting an ecosystem, but also honoring the legacy of the civilization that once flourished in these territories.”

She described the agreement as “historic and beautiful,” thanking her neighboring leaders, President Arévalo of Guatemala and Prime Minister Briceño of Belize.

An international council will guide the reserve’s governance, focusing on collaborative monitoring and tackling issues like illegal logging and environmental threats together.

Prime Minister Johnny Briceño of Belize called the effort “a bridge to a future where sustainable development, regenerative tourism, and ancestral wisdom guide our path.”

Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo spoke passionately about the region’s importance, saying, “The great Mayan jungle is living history, cultural heritage of all humanity and natural heritage of humanity. This territory is an invaluable, infinite and diverse source of life.”

Celebrate this inspiring commitment to a thriving rainforest and shared future for generations to come!

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