Charles Darwin was quoted in 1842 describing the Belize Barrier Reef as "the most remarkable reef in the West Indies" (Encyclopedia). This description still holds true today. The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, which includes the Belize submarine shelf and its barrier reef is the world's second largest barrier reef system and the largest reef complex in the Atlantic-Caribbean area (Programme-wo, 2009). What makes a reef like the Belize Barrier Reef system so special is that coral reefs are the most diverse of all wetlands and are home to more species than any other marine ecosystem (Wells). Also the reef system offers more varieties of coral formation than anywhere else in the Caribbean (Encyclopedia). For people to appreciate and …show more content…

The fact that there are these protection measures in place is great; however, more can and needs to be done to protect this special place. Continual efforts are being made to further preservation of this area, and individuals can do their part to help as well. The Government of Belize is currently developing a national protected areas system plan and the site they nominate will be included in the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (Programme-wo, 2009). The most recent preservation effort was the inscription of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System to the World Heritage in Danger List in 2009. Another group that ensures continuous efforts are being made to protect and preserve this area is the Rapid Response Facility (RRF). "The RRF is an emergency small grant programme that provides rapid support to allow immediate responses to major threats to wildlife conservation, primarily in UNESCO-designated natural World-Heritage sites" (Rapid Response Facility grant for conservation group to benefit Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, 2010, para. 6). Since the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve system was listed as a World Heritage site, the RRF has awarded several grants to aid in the effort. Although in order to protect and preserve this reef system successfully more organizations, funding, and individuals doing their part are needed. This effort is too large to leave to just a few organizations. Individuals may believe that they are too small to