Biologist and zoologist Janet Gibson was instrumental in the creation of the Holy Chan Marine Reserve to protect Belize’s precious coral forests and marine life from development, sewage dumping, and tourism. Since the 1980s, Gibson has been campaigning for long-term sustainable management of coastal resources, helping bring coalitions of fisherfolk, businesspeople, and government officials to the table to establish Belize’s integrated Coastal Zone Management program. She currently serves as the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Belize program director. Photo credit: Goldman Environmental Prize
