Cancún to Build First Sargassum Recycling Center

Cancún, Quintana Roo — The government of Quintana Roo is nearing the final phase of its plan to establish the state’s first Sargassum transformation center. Oscar Rébora Aguilera, head of the State Ministry of Ecology and Environment (SEMA), confirmed that the facility will be constructed in Cancún’s hotel zone.

Turning a Problem into Sustainable Opportunity

The comprehensive sanitation and circular economy center aims to convert the state’s Sargassum problem into a sustainable economic opportunity. Current projects under development include carbon credit issuance, biogas production, and the creation of organic fertilizers.

“Today, we are ready to take the next step toward the industrialization of Sargassum, building on over 14 months of work in a pilot plant alongside studies backed by public health criteria,” said Rébora Aguilera.

Regarding carbon credits, the goal is to certify Sargassum harvesting as a greenhouse gas mitigation measure by preventing its decomposition on beaches. This would generate certificates for unemitted CO₂, tradable in voluntary or regulated markets.

Challenges and Considerations

Rébora Aguilera acknowledged significant financial investments in the project but stressed the need for additional resources due to unpredictable future Sargassum seasons.

“We must be clear about two things: First, we cannot guarantee Sargassum as the sole raw material. Even with a fishing permit for marine collection, we must verify fishery products to ensure ecosystems remain unaffected,” he explained.

Expanding Circular Economy Initiatives

The project also explores using seaweed for biogas production through biodigestion, combining it with organic waste and plant trimmings. Key components include Sargassum monitoring, collection, transportation, treatment, and the installation of three wastewater treatment plants in Cancún’s hotel zone, alongside biometane production. Advanced water management technologies will also be prioritized.

Potential Products and Industrial Focus

SEMA has identified over 100 potential products derived from Sargassum, though most require public health studies and certification. For now, the state is focusing on industrializing biogas and bioethanol.

Two sites in Cancún have already been selected for the center, which is expected to become a benchmark for environmental innovation, generating green jobs, scientific knowledge, and long-term sustainable solutions.