Coastal erosion is becoming a serious issue for San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. This beautiful island, known for its stunning shorelines, is losing land at an alarming rate. Over the past ten years, satellite images and field studies show that erosion has quietly but steadily reshaped nearly 20 miles of coastline. Some areas are seeing worse effects than others. According to a report by IDOM Consulting, natural factors like waves and rising sea levels due to climate change are major causes. Storms and hurricanes speed up these changes, wrecking shorelines and weakening natural barriers that protect the coast.
Human activities are also a big part of the problem. Development projects, such as building piers and dredging, disrupt natural sediment flow that is essential for beach replenishment. Additionally, many mangroves have been cleared for construction. Mangroves play a crucial role; they stabilize soil, absorb storm energy, and provide habitats for marine life. Losing them makes coastal areas more vulnerable.
Interestingly, not all parts of the island are affected equally. San Pedro is divided into five coastal zones, each experiencing erosion differently. In the northern areas, where fewer buildings exist, erosion is slower. However, the central and southern zones, which are heavily developed, face faster land loss. Some concrete seawalls have managed to protect certain properties but have led to more erosion nearby by redirecting wave energy.
Local experts emphasize the importance of protecting mangroves to maintain natural coastal defenses. One researcher noted, “Mangroves are our best natural protection against land loss. Once they are gone, rebuilding becomes a huge challenge.”
Recent statistics highlight the urgency of the situation. A study published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration revealed that coastal erosion in the Caribbean is accelerating due to climate change, with rates increasing by 50% in the last two decades. Without effective coastal management, the future of San Pedro—and its economy reliant on tourism—remains at risk.
Experts suggest solutions like improving mangrove protection and enforcing stricter building regulations. They argue that combining nature-based and engineering solutions may offer the best chance for sustainable development.
As weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, ongoing monitoring and proactive strategies are essential to protect both the community and environment of San Pedro. The time to act is now if we want to keep this paradise from disappearing.
