November 5, 2024
Q + A with Miss Earth Belize 2024
Morgan Miles is the founder of PHAT Farmer, a pasture-raised chicken farming business that provides Belizeans with healthier and more sustainable food options. A lover of the sea, Morgan is an avid fisherwoman focused on raising awareness about the importance of conservation in the fly fishing industry.
Growing up, she loved being outdoors, from riding horses to fishing and chasing chickens and turkeys around the family’s farm. Morgan has always been an environmental enthusiast. One of her favorite things to do is explore Belize’s natural beauty. “Whether by car or boat, I love discovering new areas — remote villages, wildlife sanctuaries, or untouched coastal landscapes. Exploring Belize always reminds me of how blessed we are to live in such a diverse and stunning environment.”
As Miss Earth Belize 2024, her mission is to protect Belize’s natural resources while sharing her message of sustainability and environmental responsibility with the world.
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What motivated you to compete for Miss Earth Belize?
MM: From a young age, I dreamed of participating in a pageant in Belize, knowing that I wanted to make a meaningful impact. After exploring my options, I chose Miss Earth Belize because of its focus on environmental awareness and sustainability. This platform perfectly aligns with my passion for sustainable farming and conservation in the flats fishing industry. Miss Earth provides a unique opportunity to educate people, especially young minds, about the urgent need to protect our environment and preserve it for future generations.
How does your life and career connect to the environment?
MM: My career as a pasture poultry farmer and my love for fishing tie directly into my advocacy for environmental sustainability. Through PHAT Farmer, I promote healthier, more sustainable agricultural practices. As a dedicated fishing angler, I also work to raise awareness about the importance of conservation, particularly in preserving Belize’s marine ecosystems. My professional and personal passions align with my mission to educate and inspire others to protect the environment.
What do you see as the most pressing environmental issues facing Belize today?
MM: One of the most urgent environmental issues facing Belize is water pollution. With the heavy use of pesticides in agricultural practices, harmful toxins are running off into our waterways, contaminating both freshwater sources and marine environments. As the founder of PHAT Farmer, an organic pasture-raised chicken company, I emphasize sustainable farming methods that minimize environmental impact. It’s crucial to adopt eco-friendly agricultural techniques to protect our water resources.
Another pressing concern is coastal marine degradation. Overfishing, pollution, and coastal development are significantly damaging our reef and marine ecosystems. Through Sea.Spot.Run!, an online platform I manage alongside the Director of Miss Earth Belize 2024, we are committed to raising awareness about protecting the shallow game water species and their flats. This initiative brings attention to the importance of conservation in the fly fishing industry, which is critical to the health of Belize’s marine ecosystems.
How has climate change impacted Belize’s ecosystems, especially coastal and marine environments?
MM: Climate change has had a noticeable impact on Belize’s coastal and marine environments. Rising sea levels threaten many coastal areas, putting both communities and wildlife at risk of flooding. Additionally, warmer ocean temperatures are making Belize more vulnerable to stronger hurricanes, which further devastate our delicate ecosystems.
As a pasture-raised poultry farmer with PHAT Farmer, I see firsthand how climate change affects sustainable farming practices. Unpredictable weather patterns make it more challenging to maintain the health of my farm and livestock. This is why I’m committed to educating others on eco-friendly farming methods that help mitigate climate impact.
Through Sea.Spot.Run!, we also focus on the effects of climate change on Belize’s marine life, particularly the shallow water species that are vital to the fly fishing industry. Warmer waters and stronger storms disrupt the balance of these fragile ecosystems, and without immediate action, we could lose both biodiversity and a significant part of our tourism economy. By combining sustainable farming and marine conservation efforts, I hope to inspire others to take action for a healthier, more sustainable Belize.
Belize is known for its rich marine biodiversity, including the Belize Barrier Reef. What steps are being taken to protect these marine ecosystems from threats such as overfishing and pollution?
MM: Belize has implemented several key measures to protect its marine ecosystems. Sustainable fishing practices, like catch-and-release, help maintain healthy fish populations. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) prevent fishing in sensitive zones, allowing ecosystems to recover. Pollution control efforts are also underway to reduce toxic agricultural runoff. Additionally, the Petroleum Operations (Maritime Zone Moratorium) Act, passed in 2017, permanently bans offshore oil drilling, a major win led by Oceana and supported by the people of Belize.
What role does sustainable fishing play in preserving Belize’s marine life, and how can local communities contribute to these efforts?
MM: Sustainable fishing ensures fish populations remain healthy, protecting the marine ecosystem. Local communities can engage in co-management initiatives, where fishers work with authorities to enforce sustainable practices. Education programs are also key to raising awareness. With Oceana’s efforts, trawling and gillnet use have been banned, and stronger enforcement of fisheries regulations is encouraged.
Plastic pollution is a global concern. What initiatives are currently in place in Belize to reduce plastic waste, particularly in coastal and marine environments?
MM: Belize has banned single-use plastic bags and Styrofoam containers to reduce plastic waste. Efforts to improve recycling and waste management are ongoing. Coastal cleanups, organized by Oceana and partners, help remove waste from the environment and raise awareness about the harmful effects of single-use plastics on marine life.
How can individuals and businesses contribute to reducing Belize’s environmental footprint?
MM: Individuals and businesses can help by reducing, reusing, and recycling. They can conserve water and energy, support local eco-friendly products, and switch to sustainable alternatives. Oceana’s Green Vendor Registry highlights businesses that have adopted greener practices, encouraging others to follow suit.
What environmental policies or legislation would you like to see strengthened or implemented in Belize to better protect natural resources?
MM: Belize should strengthen the ban on single-use plastics and enhance coastal zone management to protect ecosystems from overdevelopment. More support is needed for organic farming practices that limit pesticide use and reduce toxic runoff. Finally, a Constitutional Reform could give Belizeans the right to be consulted on key environmental issues, ensuring that public voices are heard.
What are you most looking forward to when travelling to the Philippines for the pageant?
MM: I’m most looking forward to experiencing the rich culture of the Philippines! It’s such a beautiful country, and I’m sure the culture is just as vibrant. I’m also incredibly proud to be representing Belize in the Philippines — it’s a great honor to share our warm Belizean culture with others on such a global stage. I hope to learn as much as I can about the Philippines’ traditions and people, while also exchanging the beauty of our own Belizean heritage. Immersing myself in new cultural experiences is something I truly cherish, and I can’t wait for this incredible opportunity!
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Keep up with Morgan’s Miss Earth journey here!
