In April, Desire Riviera Maya Resort built a 918-foot-long linear barrier on its beach in response to the ongoing sargassum seaweed problem. At a company investment of $96,000, the 1.6-foot-deep structure collects approximately one ton of sargassum a day.
The effects of the brown seaweed have been far-reaching, impacting several Caribbean destinations. For example, Jamaica is now working with MIT to research it, and mitigate its presence. Travel Agent saw firsthand the scope of the problem in Barbados where hotel employees were seen cleaning piles as high as six feet. The seaweed is not dangerous but can be irritating to visitors and, ultimately, dampen tourism.
The barrier collects the sargassum and diverts it to the side, where three designated sargassum collectors can remove and transport it. They also take care of any additional beach cleaning needs. A collection center designated by the government in Puerto Morelos then properly disposes of the accumulated brown seaweed.
The structure complies with regulations from the Mexican Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources. Desire Riviera Maya Resort is devoted to maintaining this Sargassum-free initiative as needed, although the barrier can be removed when necessary. Additionally, a barrier will also be created at the property’s sibling resort, Desire Riviera Maya Pearl, in the next few months.
For more information, visit https://www.desire-experience.com/resorts/desire-riviera-maya-resort/
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