Dune Restoration Stalled by Native Plant Shortage

QUINTANA ROO — One of the main challenges in the recovery of coastal dunes is the availability of native plants, as only a few nurseries in the region stock these essential species. To confront this challenge, there is a push for hotels themselves to develop Environmental Management Units (UMAs), explained Vicente Ferreyra Acosta, director of Sustentur.

Shortage of Native Species for Dune Restoration

According to the specialist, approximately six protected species are used in the dunes, but the majority of nurseries in Quintana Roo do not cultivate them because they are not as profitable as other varieties. However, the growth of restoration projects will make it indispensable to increase the diversity of available plants.

Advances in Coastal Dune Restoration

Sustentur is currently collaborating with 35 lodging centers. In three years of work, between 50 and 60 kilometers of beach have been restored, with visible results in sites such as Cancún (Playa Delfines), Bahía Petempich, and Puerto Morelos. The joint investment has reached four million dollars, allocated to diagnostic studies and the training of hotel gardeners, who replicate best practices in dune management.

"While there is progress, the efforts are still limited. Stronger work is needed to achieve healthy and sustainable coastal ecosystems. Puerto Morelos is the most advanced destination, as the majority of hotels are committed to restoration," said Vicente Ferreyra Acosta.

Success Case in Tulum

For his part, Luis Eduardo Verdín Huerta, director of the Eco-Bahía Foundation, highlighted that more than one kilometer of dunes has already been restored at the Bahía Príncipe complex in Tulum. As a result, the width of the beach has increased by up to three meters in some sections, which has motivated the continuity of the project.

Reforestation with Native Species

The work includes the planting of species such as chit palm, icaco, and sea grape, which are fundamental for preserving biodiversity and protecting coastal communities from the effects of climate change.