Puerto Morelos Sees First Formal Sargazo Fishing Initiative

Officials from the Caribbean Hotel Council and SargaTech announced a groundbreaking project to establish the first formal sargazo fishing initiative in Quintana Roo. The initiative aims to incorporate local fishermen into the collection of sargazo seaweed, which is set to begin in the first half of 2027 with support from the European Union.

The project, known as the Caribe Circular y Sostenibilidad, seeks to combat the sargazo problem while providing a new income stream for the fishing community. It aims to protect Quintana Roo's image as a tourist destination and integrate the sector into the sargazo collection process, which has been declining due to overfishing.

With the support of the European Union, the initiative will test the feasibility of using advanced technology and a commercial value model for sargazo collection in the open sea. The plan envisions 800 fishermen participating in the program, making it a significant step towards sustainable tourism in Puerto Morelos and beyond.