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    Service LearningConservation & STEM

    Sustainable Action for Coastal Communities & Ocean Conservation

    Placencia, Belize
    8 Days, 7 Nights
    12 to 20 Students
    Marine Biology & Ecology

    Trip Overview

    Learn from local community experts, participate in citizen science, and take action for a sustainable future on the Belize Barrier Reef.

    Belize is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, and a leader in reversing coral bleaching efforts. Recently, Belize finalized the largest debt-for-marine conservation deal with the Nature Conservancy, and is providing other countries with a "blue" financial model for conserving some of the world's most vulnerable marine ecosystems.

    On this unique 8-day program, participants will explore sustainability and ocean conservation through experiential education, service-learning, professional development, and intercultural learning components in Belize. Students will learn from a speaker series of industry experts who are leading local, community-based initiatives around Climate Action, Life on Land, and Life Below Water.

    In conjunction with the speaker series, students will work alongside local community organizations and participate in citizen science, learn about marine ecology, and support conservation and stewardship of the Belize Barrier Reef. The program is paired with rich culture, history, biodiversity, and exciting adventures.

    Marine Ecology & Citizen Science

    Gain real-world experience in ocean systems thinking, conduct data collection, and identify marine life.

    Sustainable Livelihoods

    Support women-led, community-based organizations and document the benefits of seaweed farms.

    Program Highlights

    Ocean Conservation Education: Conduct citizen science and identify marine life
    Laughing Bird Caye: Snorkel in a National Marine Park and World Heritage Site
    Seaweed Farming: Support sustainable livelihoods for a women-led organization
    Garifuna Culture: Cultural immersion experiences with Indigenous communities
    Cockscomb Jaguar Reserve: Visit the only jaguar reserve in the world for a flora and fauna hike

    What's Included

    • Welcome orientation and health and safety overview
    • Airport pick up and drop off
    • All accommodation, 7 nights
    • All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily
    • All in-country transportation (ground and boat transfers)
    • 24/7 in country support and on site staff
    • Coordinated service-learning projects and materials
    • Marine reserve entrance fees and snorkeling excursions
    • Cockscomb Jaguar Reserve excursion
    • Indigenous Garifuna cultural experiences

    What's Not Included

    • Round trip international airfare
    • Passport and visa fees
    • Travel insurance (mandatory)
    • Optional tips and gratuities
    • Personal expenses and souvenirs
    • Beverages not included with meals

    Accommodation

    GSA Partner Eco-Lodge, Placencia

    A welcoming and secure eco-lodge base in Placencia that serves as the GSA homebase for this coastal program. Its location places students within easy reach of marine reserves, community partners, and the sea, giving groups a settled environment for briefings and reflection after fieldwork days.