1.5 miles anti-Sargassum barrier installed in Playa del Carmen to protect tourism and the ecosystem
Playa del Carmen, Mexico – The secretariat of the Navy has the deployment of one 2.5 kilometers (1.55 miles) Anti-Sargassum barrier off the coast of Playa del Carmen. This measure is intended to prevent the recurring inflow of Sargassum -Algen tourist activities and the local ecosystem causes damage during the annual season.
The barrier extends from Playa Fundores to the pier of the Constituientes, and forms a half moon with a central opening to make the passage of ships possible, while the massive arrival of Sargassum is effectively blocked. Two smaller boats are responsible for the installation and maintenance of the barrier, so that the algae do not reach the coast. The dissolution of Sargassum broadcasts unpleasant scents and is significant threats for both the natural environment and the tourism sector.
Current Sargassum season in the Mexican Caribbean
The Mexican Caribbean is currently experiencing a significant increase in Sargassum seaweed on its beaches.
According to the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat), the Sargassum collection in Tulum has more than doubled during the first two months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. In January and February, Tulum, respectively, collected 79 tons and 59 tons of seaweed, an increase of 36 tons in January and 50 tons in February 2024. ZoFemat anticipates even higher seaweed levels during the peak season from May to November, in particular influence on the Tulum Cast.
The increased prevalence of Sargassum not only deteriorates tourism, but also has a negative influence on marine ecosystems, because the resolutive algae breaks down water quality and can lead to the death of seagrass beds. Efforts have been made to manage the inflow, including the daily collection by dedicated teams and coordination between state and federal authorities.
