Leonardo DiCaprio's Belize island restoration project faces criticism

Actor Leonardo DiCaprio purchased Blackadore Caye, an uninhabited island off the coast of Belize, in 2005 for approximately $1.75 million alongside businessman Jeff Gram. The acquisition was intended to launch a project titled ‘Blackadore Caye, a Restorative Island,’ which aimed to combine luxury tourism with environmental conservation.

Developed in collaboration with architect Jason McLennan, the proposal sought to address ecological issues such as coastal erosion, mangrove loss, and overfishing. The plan included the construction of 68 villas and 48 private residences, with a natural reserve occupying roughly half of the island's 104-acre area. The project intended to utilize renewable energy, responsible water management, and waste reduction technologies to demonstrate that tourism can support ecosystem recovery.

However, the initiative faced significant opposition from local fishermen and environmental organizations. Critics raised concerns regarding the impact of construction on the coastal environment, potential restrictions on traditional fishing grounds, and the environmental footprint of transporting visitors to the island. Documentation suggests that the full transformation of the island into the proposed restorative resort has not been completed.