Royal Caribbean projects spark environmental outcry

A coalition of environmental organizations has raised serious concerns regarding two proposed large-scale tourism projects by Royal Caribbean on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. The projects, Royal Beach Club in Cozumel and Perfect Day in Mahahual, are currently under review by the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources. Environmental groups argue that these developments promote an unsustainable model of mass tourism that could place immense pressure on vulnerable coastal ecosystems.

The proposed Perfect Day project in Mahahual, a community of fewer than 3,000 residents, aims to accommodate over 21,000 tourists daily. This influx, according to activists, poses a direct threat to the vital mangroves, jaguar populations, and sea turtle nesting sites in the area. Concerns also extend to potential impacts on the Mexican Caribbean reef and restricted public access to beaches. One significant issue highlighted is the company's alleged promotion of these projects as already approved, despite ongoing environmental permit processes.

Activists draw parallels to the negative environmental and social consequences observed in northern Quintana Roo, such as Cancun, where intensive tourism has led to irreversible damage and concentrated economic benefits. They emphasize that these projects must be assessed considering the cumulative pressures on the Yucatan Peninsula from urban growth and climate change. The groups are calling for a rigorous and transparent environmental evaluation, prioritizing conservation and the precautionary principle to protect the natural heritage of the Mexican Caribbean and the Maya Forest.