“From Fishing to Ecotourism: Saving Sharks in Mexico”

A collective effort involving local communities, activists, scientists, divers, and tourism managers is underway to safeguard sharks in Quintana Roo, Mexico. Two years ago, the Kab Xok Cooperative, a group of fishermen, abandoned their traditional fishing methods. They shifted their focus to promoting eco-tourism within the Mexican Caribbean Biosphere Reserve, which includes Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, and Isla Mujeres.

Now, with the backing of the Saving Our Sharks organization, the cooperative is fundraising to continue their training as certified divers. They aim to acquire diving equipment and facilitate tourist activities on their new boat. Captain José Francisco Erosa of the ex-fishermen cooperative reflects, "The sea has always been a crucial part of our lives. We want to continue co-existing with it, benefiting from its bounty while preserving its richness. We understand the need to act now for future generations and rehabilitate shark populations. A live shark is more valuable than a dead one."

Quintana Roo's waters are home to at least 30 species of sharks, including the cat shark, reef shark, and bull shark. These species have been fished since the 1930s for local consumption. Recent data reveals that Isla Mujeres alone accounted for 70% of the state's shark catch, approximately 2,500 specimens per year. These species play a vital role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem.

The shark protection initiative involves Saving Our Sharks, a conservation organization comprised of divers, ecologists, and scientists. For 13 years, they have worked to protect sharks, conduct research, and promote sustainable practices within local communities. The Kab Xok Cooperative from Isla Mujeres is another key player. They decided to cease shark fishing in July 2022, a practice passed down through generations. They recognized the importance of the sea to their livelihood and switched to tourism to help restore shark populations.

The impact of these changes has been almost immediate, with a significant increase in shark sightings over the past two years. According to a recent report from Saving Our Sharks, they managed to save over 20,000 sharks in 2023 alone. This has had a positive effect on other Caribbean habitats and the Mesoamerican Reef System.

Various individuals and organizations, including Shark Heroes, have joined the project, acknowledging the value of the Kab Xok Cooperative's work. The diving sector directly benefits from the increased shark sightings, leading to satisfied tourists and increased economic activity. Scuba Life Cozumel, a local diving center, has supported the ex-shark fishermen by providing training. This allows them to offer regenerative tourism experiences that promote conservation and benefit local communities.

One of the primary challenges facing the project is securing funding. To continue their shark conservation efforts through sustainable tourism, the ex-fishermen need not only diving training but also administrative and legal training to ensure their businesses are profitable. They are currently focused on consolidating their alternative tourism activities, including nature tourism, adventure tourism, and scientific tourism, with the help of experts and appropriate technology.