Belize is home to dozens of natural wonders, including the world’s second-largest barrier reef. But Belizeans must confront climate change, pollution and development to preserve their environment and culture. Barriers is an interactive multimedia project that tells stories of Belize’s environmental challenges through ordinary people, Belizeans who have had to adapt to their changing environment as they try to survive. Our goal was to help people who are not witnessing it first-hand to understand the extent of the impact. We want our stories to inform, touch, and inspire people to action. We are a team of student videographers, photographers, reporters, designers, developers and faculty dedicated to decoding the political and economic forces driving climate change and environmental degradation in Belize and the world.

Photo/ Video: Alicia Carter, Caroline Almy, Dustin Duong, Emily Caroline Sartin, Hadley Green, Haley France, Hanna Wondmagegn, Hope Davison, Jeremiah Rhodes, Lucas Pruitt, Madison Hoffmann, Matthew Westmoreland, Nash Consing, Sarah Redmond; Reporting: Ari Sen, Drew Wayland, Lucia Castro, Molly Horak, Veronica Correa; Interactive: Halynna Snyder, Malin Curry, Meg McMahon, Michael Gawlik, Rachel McKinney, Samantha Perry, Taylor Tyson, Will Melfi