Mexico Turns Sargasso Into Sustainable Bioenergy and Jobs

Quintana Roo, Mexico — Sargasso seaweed will soon be classified as a fishery resource, enabling its collection in the open sea before it reaches the shores of the Mexican Caribbean. The groundbreaking initiative, announced by Ignacio Muñoz, CEO of Seas We Love, aims to transform an environmental challenge into a sustainable industry with applications in bioenergy, agriculture, and hotel self-sufficiency.

Offshore Collection Could Reduce Beach Sargasso by Up to 85%

With support from the Riviera Maya Hotel Association, the project plans to intercept the macroalgae in the Chinchorro Bank current before it reaches coastal areas. According to Muñoz, this approach could reduce sargasso accumulation on beaches by 70% to 85% and is up to five times more cost-effective than land-based management.

“Sargasso is a problem that comes from the sea, and it is in the sea where it must be solved,” stated Ignacio Muñoz.

A Sustainable Industry with National Impact

The project is expected to require an investment of $200 to $300 million, implemented in phases, with visible results projected between 2028 and 2030. The goal is to repurpose sargasso as biomass, converting it into three types of bioenergy: biogas, biomethane, and sustainable aviation fuel. Additionally, the agricultural sector will develop biofertilizers and soil enhancers, boosting Mexican farming and reducing reliance on imported supplies. Processing plants will be established in Quintana Roo, positioning the region as a hub for green innovation.

Federal Backing and Majority Mexican Participation

The collection technology will be supported by the Mexican Institute for Sustainable Fishing and Aquaculture Research (Imipas), while the National Commission for Aquaculture and Fishing (Conapesca) will grant the necessary permits for this emerging activity. Most participating companies are expected to be Mexican, selected through private tenders under the "Plan México." Currently, 20 projects are under review, with only the most viable proposals moving forward.

International Recognition for Environmental Impact

Seas We Love was recently honored at the inaugural "Los + Ecoístas" awards, organized by Grupo Piñero, for its innovative approach to sustainability, circular economy practices, and efforts to combat sargasso in the Caribbean.