Tulum’s 80km Coastline Now Protects Sea Turtles

Tulum, Quintana Roo — In a collaborative effort to protect Tulum’s flora and fauna, the municipal government, led by Mayor Diego Castañón Trejo, has launched an extensive conservation program spanning over 80 kilometers of coastline. The initiative, managed by the Directorate of Sustainability alongside various associations and hotel companies, includes the establishment of eight specialized camps dedicated to safeguarding sea turtles that nest on the region’s beaches.

A Community Effort for Conservation

The announcement coincided with World Sea Turtle Day, observed annually on June 16. Armando Angulo, Director of Sustainability, emphasized the significance of the program, stating, "Tulum is the coastal municipality in Quintana Roo that receives the highest number of sea turtles. We have an enormous task and responsibility, which is why this community effort between public and private institutions is crucial."

The eight camps are operated by multiple organizations, including Flora Fauna y Cultura de México, the Akumal Ecological Center, the Ecobahia Foundation, Amigos Bahía Soliman, Save Akumal, the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp)—which oversees the Tulum National Park and the Mexican Caribbean—and the Tulum City Council through Kanan Áak.

Raising Awareness and Preventing Crime

To educate tourism workers and local businesses, the program has conducted awareness workshops. So far, 300 individuals have participated in these sessions, equipping them with the knowledge to monitor nests and report potential risks to authorities.

Angulo also issued a stern reminder that the theft of sea turtle eggs is a crime. He urged the public to report any suspicious activity by calling 911 if they witness nest disturbances or the hunting of turtles. "The collaboration of everyone is essential for the protection and conservation of these endangered species," he added.

The program underscores Tulum’s commitment to environmental stewardship as it works to preserve its natural heritage for future generations.