The project aimed to promote forest conservation in Belize by developing and demonstrating viable approaches to forest management that can be applied by communities and the private sector. Demonstrations were developed in northern Belize as fully working initiatives delivering benefits of forest conservation and to local participants. The demonstrations were backed by support for institutional development of participating organizations and for enhanced manufacturing and marketing of forest products. The overall aim was that, as the economic development of the country continues, adequate forest cover will remain in the landscape to provide the environmental goods and services. These included biodiversity conservation, maintenance of ecological integrity, access to forest products, provision of tourism experiences, soil fertility and provision of an adequate supply of clean water. All underpinned development and an enriched quality of life. The intent was that the demonstrations not only deliver but also be seen to deliver concrete advantages.

The purpose of this proposed project was to develop viable approaches to resource use in protected areas managed by communities and private entities that are compatible with the conservation management aims of the particular sites and also provide sustained benefits in terms of revenue generation to sustain management, continued access to needed materials, and new opportunities for enterprises supporting the local economy. It thus reinforced sustainability by addressing its social and financial components as well as the environmental considerations contained within the site management regime.