The New River Report: Socio-Ecological System Impacts of Anthropogenic Pollution on New River Communities in Belize

Abstract

Changes to the New River in northern Belize, Central America, including an annual eutrophication event near the river’s primary urban setting, have had multiple impacts on New River communi- ties. This mixed-method study examines perceptions of New River changes from forty-two resident interviews in twelve riverside com- munities using phenomenology and chi-square tests of indepen- dence methods. This study finds five categories of socio-ecological system (SES) impacts from anthropogenic pollution to residents; river pollution (exacerbated by drought conditions) impacts human health, livelihoods, environment, culture, and social justice. There are implications for community future uncertainty, powerlessness, and lack of trust in industry and government. Comparing zones in the study, the research found statistical significance in six factors. Pollution and other river changes were perceived to originate from a variety of sources, primarily industrial drainage. Government leadership, along with industry, agriculture, and community stake- holders, can facilitate solutions to safeguard the New River and its communities. Keywords: