Climate Resilience Boost in Punta Allen for Sustainable Tourism

Punta Allen is launching a project to bolster its resilience against climate change. The initiative, spearheaded by Amigos de Sian Ka’an (ASK) and backed by the European Commission, aims to help the community adapt to and recover from adverse situations, ultimately emerging stronger. The project will focus on sustainable tourism activities in Punta Allen and throughout Mexico as a means of climate adaptation.

One key aspect of the project is the continued restoration of mangroves in the El Playón area. Mangroves are a critical ecosystem that aid in climate change adaptation and provide protection against external phenomena such as hurricanes. They also play a key role in preserving the coastal line.

The initiative will also equip locals with the tools to tackle climate change challenges, such as rising sea levels and increasing temperatures. As part of this, the project will support sustainable fishing, a traditional and unique economic activity in the area.

In Punta Allen, there are three fishing cooperative societies: Vigía Chico Fishermen, José María Azcorra, and Cozumel. These groups will continue efforts to track the journey of lobsters, a practice already implemented with cooperatives in the south of Sian Ka'an. This could provide an opportunity to strengthen the lobster fishing industry in the Mexican Caribbean. The fishermen use sustainable and selective fishing techniques that contribute to the conservation of the species and the health of the sea.

The project also aims to connect fishermen with the Maya Ka’an tourist cooperatives and expand the local value chain. While most of the catch is exported, there are discussions around allocating a small portion to the local market. This would involve eco-cuisine with chefs dedicated to biodiversity conservation. The alliance with Slow Food will continue from 2024 to 2027, offering tourist alternatives linked to fishing in Maya Ka’an. This includes mapping market supply and demand, exchanging knowledge with a traceability approach, and connecting cooperatives with local restaurants and hotels.