Cancún Resort Battles 20,000 Tons of Invasive Seaweed Annually
Cancún, Mexico — Each year, a prominent resort in Cancún confronts the daunting task of removing approximately 20,000 tons of invasive seaweed from its pristine beaches. This massive accumulation of sargassum, a brown seaweed species, has become a persistent challenge for coastal destinations across the Caribbean, impacting tourism and local ecosystems.
To combat this issue, the resort employs a combination of heavy machinery and manual labor. Specialized equipment, often referred to as “sand machines,” is utilized to sift through the sand, extracting seaweed while preserving the beach’s natural appearance. Workers operate these machines daily, especially during peak sargassum season, to ensure the beaches remain inviting for guests.
The influx of sargassum not only affects the aesthetic appeal of the beaches but also poses environmental concerns. When decomposing, the seaweed emits a foul odor and can harm marine life by depleting oxygen levels in the water. The resort’s proactive measures aim to mitigate these effects, balancing guest satisfaction with environmental responsibility.
While the resort’s efforts are commendable, the broader issue of sargassum proliferation is linked to factors such as climate change and nutrient runoff, which promote its growth. Addressing these root causes requires regional cooperation and sustainable practices beyond individual resort initiatives.
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