Primarily due to the lack of effective environmental regulations on tourism activities and inadequate wastewater treatment and drainage, the marine ecosystems in Akumal have been degraded.

 

In 2015 alone, there were more than 400,000 visitors in the bay and since 2016 the coral reef structures have declined over 50% while the amount of invasive algae overgrowth on the coral has tripled.

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Our Purpose

The overall purpose of this project is to understand the impact of tourism on the marine ecosystems and present scientific-based evidence to support;

• the development of sound protection strategies;

• integral coastal management practices of Akumal;

• the promotion of best environmental practices to the community.

 

Our Work

We have developed simple, but effective techniques that allow us to document and evaluate different indicators of the effect of tourism activity on the coastal marine ecosystem in three specific areas:

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1. Sea Turtle Photo Identification

Juvenile sea turtles are counted and identified in Akumal Bay and their feeding zones are geo-referenced.

 

2. Tourist Behavior and Impact on Sea Turtles

In-water observation and studies collect information on the behavior of tourists (number of people and/or specific actions) that provoke specific behaviors or cause stress on the sea turtles.

 

3. Water Dynamics & Visibility

By conducting in-water observations, we are able to document the dynamics of the reef lagoons are determined through different procedures and physical parameters.

 

4. Uses of the Bay /Video Surveillance / Patrols

By conducting different observations on the beach, we are able to document and estimate the tourism impact to the Akumal bays.