Volunteers Remove 100kg of Waste From Bahía Petempich Beach

Cancún, Mexico — A group of volunteers collected 102 kilograms of waste during a beach cleanup at Bahía Petempich in Puerto Morelos, marking the conclusion of the 13th edition of the Festival of the Oceans of the Mexican Caribbean last Saturday.

Microplastics Pose Environmental Threat

Miguel Ángel Canseco, Director of Responsibility and Communication at Delphinus and coordinator of the festival, reported that the majority of the debris collected consisted of microplastics, which are highly harmful to the environment, marine life, and birds.

“These types of waste are easily mistaken for food by wildlife and quickly enter the food chain, even reaching humans,” Canseco stated.

He emphasized that the festival’s overarching goal is to become the most significant environmental event in the region by providing the Quintana Roo community and virtual audiences with crucial information about the ocean and its vital role in sustaining life on the planet.

Festival Activities Promote Ocean Conservation

This year’s edition, held from June 8 to 14, featured art exhibitions, scientific outreach, the promotion of aquaculture as a sustainable alternative for seafood consumption, and beach cleanups, among other activities.

The cleanup at Bahía Petempich was one of several initiatives aimed at raising awareness about marine pollution and fostering community engagement in conservation efforts.

The festival continues to highlight the urgent need for environmental stewardship and sustainable practices to protect marine ecosystems.