Tulum’s Beaches Earn Top Eco-Certifications Again

TULUM — The municipality of Tulum has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation and the responsible management of its coastal zones by receiving, for the fourth consecutive year, the Platinum Beach certification, and for the first time, the NOM 120 White Flag certification in conservation mode.

The recognitions were presented during the Fifth Encounter of Sustainable Beaches held in Cancún, which was attended by representatives from various tourist destinations across the country.

David Buchanan García, the general director of the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat) in Tulum, reported that this year, Playa Mangle was added to the group of certified beaches, joining Aventuras, Santa Fé, Maya, and Pescadores. Furthermore, the White Flag distinction was achieved for the first time for Playa Pescadores, Playa Maya, and Playa Santa Fé.

"We are very happy because we achieved the NOM 120 certification in conservation mode. As it is an area within a natural reserve, the guidelines are stricter, but we achieved a score of 100 points in the evaluation," stated Buchanan García, who highlighted that Tulum reached Phase 2 of total compliance.

The official added that, despite budgetary limitations, the municipality maintains its objective of improving the conditions of its beaches, taking care of the fauna, biodiversity, and quality of the natural environment.

For her part, Gema Moo, general coordinator of the Beach Certification Program in Tulum, explained that the process to obtain the Platinum Beach distinction included cleaning campaigns with different institutions, the installation of signage, and maintenance of lifeguard towers. Waste management was also reinforced, separating recyclable and non-recyclable materials, which are subsequently sent to the municipal recycling center.

Regarding the White Flag NOM 120, Moo detailed that this certification involves complying with approximately 94 criteria related to the bacteriological quality of the water, waste control, infrastructure, signage, security, and noise levels generated by watercraft. The studies conducted confirmed that the beaches comply with the permitted limits and are suitable for recreational use.

"These beaches are located within a protected natural area, so environmental education and inter-institutional work are fundamental to maintaining their conservation," emphasized the official.

With these distinctions, Tulum consolidates its position as one of the coastal destinations with the highest sustainability standards in Quintana Roo, combining environmental preservation with responsible tourism promotion.