Quintana Roo’s Sargassum Crisis: 200 Tons Daily Threat

Quintana Roo, Mexico — For over a decade, sargassum has become an unwelcome visitor to the shores of Quintana Roo. Each year, between March and October, beaches once known for their turquoise waters and white sand face waves of this brown seaweed, disrupting the environment, economy, and daily life in Mexico’s most iconic tourist destinations.

Escalating Crisis in 2025

In 2025, the situation has intensified. Official data reveals that Playa del Carmen alone collects up to 200 tons of sargassum daily during peak season, with over 6,500 tons removed so far this year. The same scenario unfolds in Mahahual, Xcalak, Cozumel, Tulum, and Puerto Morelos, where the accumulation has forced authorities to ramp up cleanup efforts.

Origins and Causes

The floating seaweed originates in the Sargasso Sea in the North Atlantic, carried by currents to the Mexican Caribbean. Scientists attribute its proliferation to climate change, increased marine nutrient pollution, and oceanic alterations, leading to unprecedented growth over the past 14 years.

Government Response

The state government has deployed marine barriers, manual collection, and specialized machinery to mitigate the impact. Governor Mara Lezama announced the creation of a Sargassum Sanitation and Circular Economy Center, aiming to transform the threat into a recyclable and useful resource. However, these measures fall short against the volume and frequency of influx, dealing a severe blow to tourism, the state’s primary revenue source.

Economic and Environmental Toll

The foul odor, visual pollution, and difficulty in enjoying the sea have led to cancellations, complaints, and negative perceptions among visitors. The economic impact is staggering: addressing sargassum accounts for up to 11% of Quintana Roo’s GDP, costing nearly $2 billion annually in cleanup, monitoring, logistics, personnel, and equipment.

Health and Ecological Risks

As sargassum decomposes, it releases hydrogen sulfide, a gas harmful to human health and marine life in high concentrations. Authorities and businesses have implemented containment barriers, manual cleanup brigades, and specialized machinery. Some sectors are exploring alternative uses for the seaweed, such as fertilizer or biofuel production.

Long-Term Challenges

Experts warn that the problem will persist unless structural causes are addressed, including climate change, rising sea temperatures, and nutrient pollution from agricultural and industrial discharges. A real solution requires international cooperation and a deep environmental approach to prevent the Caribbean from losing its natural allure.

Meanwhile, social media and international media images of sargassum-covered beaches starkly contrast with promotional campaigns. The urgency is clear: without a regional solution involving other Caribbean nations and the United States, the paradise risks losing its shine.