TULUM, México – In the scenic coastal town of Tulum, a new environmental initiative is set to elevate its beaches to new heights of natural splendor. Melitón González Pérez, the local head of the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat), has announced ambitious plans for 2024, aiming to increase the number of Tulum’s beaches awarded the prestigious Platinum Certification.
Last year, Tulum saw four of its beaches – Maya, Pescadores, Santa Fe, and Playa Aventura (also known as DIF) – achieve this esteemed status. The Platinum Certification, a national scheme, recognizes beaches that not only preserve their natural beauty but also remain free from environmental pollutants.
This initiative comes at a critical time as Tulum continues to grow as a premier tourist destination. The certification process involves rigorous assessments of beach cleanliness, water quality, and environmental management practices. It’s a testament to the town’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
Beyond the aesthetic appeal, these efforts have practical implications for the local ecosystem. The certification process encourages the preservation of Tulum’s delicate dune systems and promotes a cleaner, more sustainable environment, crucial for both the local community and the thousands of tourists who visit each year.
However, challenges remain. González Pérez noted that despite these achievements, issues like cigarette butts, plastic bottles, and other waste left by beachgoers continue to threaten the fragile coastal ecosystem. In response, Zofemat has partnered with Tulum Circula, an association committed to recycling materials such as PET, cardboard, and glass. This collaboration aims to ensure proper waste disposal while reinforcing recycling practices.
Additionally, the local authorities have enhanced safety measures. They have equipped the beaches with surveillance towers and trained lifeguards, ensuring both the environmental and personal safety of visitors and locals alike.
Tulum’s ongoing environmental efforts have already yielded tangible results. The restoration of dune systems and the maintenance of a clean and attractive beachfront are just a few of the visible successes. These efforts are not just about maintaining the beauty of Tulum’s beaches but also about fostering a culture of respect and care for the environment among locals and visitors.
As Tulum sets its sights on achieving more Platinum Certifications in 2024, it’s a clear signal that the town is committed to balancing its growth as a tourist hotspot with the need to preserve and protect its natural wonders. This delicate balance is key to ensuring that Tulum remains a pristine paradise for generations to come.
