There are few countries that have been as hard hit by modernity and climate change as Belize. Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns are altering Belize's watersheds and affecting the rainforest ecosystems. Scientists say that certain animal species, such as lizards and frogs, are dying off; these deaths may be an indication of larger problems to come. Belize's world-famous barrier reefs starkly illustrate the effects of a changing climate. Over the last 15 years, nearly half of these once vibrant reefs have withered into skeletons of white, lifeless rock. This phenomenon, known as "bleaching" is caused by rising ocean temperatures, increased exposure to sunlight and a greater frequency of violent storms—all of which are symptoms of climate change. Belize is a living laboratory where Holton and Landon Middle Schoolers can study climate change up close with their teachers. The biggest barrier to mitigating the effects of climate change in Belize is poverty. More than one-third of Belize's population lives beneath the poverty line. Belizean farmers many times are reduced to slash and burn agricultural practices to feed their families. With increased and improved education, Belizean youth must find new and innovative ways to reverse the effects of climate change.
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