The 2024 sargassum collection season in Tulum concluded with the removal of 1,278 tons of the macroalgae, marking a significant decrease compared to the over four thousand tons collected in 2023. This was reported by Juan Antonio Garza, municipal director of the local Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat).
Garza specified that the report covers up to the end of October, indicating that the sargassum collection season has officially ended for the year. He noted that this natural phenomenon, which periodically affects the beaches of the Mexican Caribbean, had a less severe impact in 2024. “Fortunately, this year we have had an atypical amount of algae, it has been less than in previous years, so we are doing well. Nature has treated us very well, it has been noble this year,” he said.
The director of Zofemat also praised the continuous effort and exemplary work of the department’s team, consisting of more than 50 men and women who maintain the cleanliness of key areas such as Tulum National Park, Punta Piedra, and Akumal. “This work, which includes collecting the sargassum and ensuring its proper disposal, has been fundamental in preserving the beauty and biodiversity of these tourist and ecological areas,” he added.
Ongoing Monitoring
Despite the decrease in sargassum, local authorities continue to monitor and manage the phenomenon in coordination with other levels of government. This ongoing effort aims to mitigate the potential effects of massive algae influxes on the ecosystem and tourism activities in the region.
Source: La Jornada Maya
