In response to the early arrival of sargassum along the coast of Quintana Roo, authorities and local residents organized the first major beach cleanup of the season in Mahahual, successfully collecting approximately 100 tons of the macroalgae.
Oscar Rebora, Secretary of Ecology and Environment (SEMA), confirmed that 2025 is projected to be a more severe sargassum season than in 2024—raising alarm among business owners, hoteliers, and local residents alike.
“We are already seeing the first signs of sargassum washing up in Mahahual,” Rebora said. “That’s why we responded to requests from citizens, civil associations, and local businesses to organize this initial brigade.”
First Joint Effort of the Year
The cleanup operation brought together around 200 participants, including staff from SEMA, the Mexican Navy (Semar), the Environmental Protection Agency (PPA), the Biodiversity and Natural Areas Institute (Ibanqroo), as well as volunteers from various organizations.
State and federal strategies now focus on strengthening offshore interception measures to stop sargassum before it reaches shorelines.
“The best approach is to contain the sargassum before it arrives at the beaches,” explained a Navy representative. “To achieve this, we are reinforcing anchor systems, barriers, and offshore collection equipment. The Navy currently operates 11 specialized vessels, and we are evaluating additional methods to increase the efficiency of the operation.”
Permanent Cleanup Brigades Announced
Rebora also announced the formation of permanent cleanup brigades in Mahahual and other high-impact areas to reduce the environmental and economic effects of the algae bloom.
“We know ocean currents can make Mahahual particularly vulnerable,” he stated. “That’s why we are strengthening both municipal and federal brigades with temporary employment programs to ensure continuous cleaning.”
This first cleanup operation marks the beginning of a larger coordinated response. More cleanup brigades are expected to be deployed in the coming weeks as part of a proactive plan to protect Quintana Roo’s beaches during the 2025 season.
What to Expect from the 2025 Sargassum Season
Early satellite monitoring and oceanographic data suggest that the 2025 sargassum season could be one of the most challenging in recent years. Large patches of the seaweed are forming in the Atlantic and are expected to drift westward, impacting the Caribbean coastline in the coming months.
Environmental agencies and scientific institutions are closely monitoring ocean temperatures and current patterns, both of which influence the bloom and movement of sargassum. Warmer waters and changing current dynamics have contributed to the expansion of the sargassum belt in the Atlantic, known as the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt.
Mahahual, located on the southern Caribbean coast of Quintana Roo, is among the first destinations affected due to its geographic position. Local communities and tourism stakeholders are calling for continued coordination and funding to manage the crisis.
“This isn’t just about aesthetics—sargassum affects marine life, public health, and the local economy,” said one local hotel manager. “We appreciate these early efforts and hope they continue throughout the season.”
The government of Quintana Roo has reiterated its commitment to long-term solutions, including investment in offshore containment infrastructure, sustainable disposal methods, and scientific research.
As the sargassum season intensifies, both public and private sectors are urged to stay alert and work collaboratively to preserve the ecological and economic vitality of the region.
