The San Pedro Town Council says it has spent the past six years clearing illegal dumpsites across Ambergris Caye, as it responds to mounting criticism over the island’s persistent garbage problem.
In a social media statement, the council said a dedicated crew carries out weekly cleanups, despite complaints that authorities are not doing enough to keep the island clean.
According to the council, some tourism partners have asked it to avoid publishing certain photographs of garbage sites because they could discourage visitors.
“Yet, it is unfortunate that we are being blamed for not doing anything about the garbage when it is THE EXTREME OPPOSITE!!” the council added.
The council blamed illegal dumping for much of the problem and reminded residents that household waste must be bagged and placed in designated garbage receptacles. “All other forms of trash must be delivered directly to the Solid Waste Transfer Station (not placed on the street side),” it added.
News 5 has been following reports on illegal dumps spreading across Ambergris Caye, where the Ambergris North Alliance (ANA) called for a coordinated garbage management plan, including regular collection, the removal of illegal dumpsites and stronger enforcement. ANA president Catherine Paz told News 5 the group wrote to local and national authorities in September asking for help.
The Alliance has argued that sanitation and basic infrastructure must receive greater attention as Ambergris Caye prepares for major development investments and another busy tourism season.
Meanwhile, the UDP caretaker for Belize Rural South, Gabriel Zetina, told News 5 the island has only one working garbage truck.
The council admits the job “needs lots more resources” but insists residents must also take responsibility for keeping the island clean.
