Last week local Riviera Maya website Loco Gringo featured a special guest on their regular podcast who provided some excellent advice about environmental awareness in the Riviera Maya. Paul Sanchez Navarro has worked in Mexico City and Switzerland on environmental policy with the Xcaret Named Among Best Theme Parks in the World and is currently with the Ecological Center in Akumal (CEA).
In his 12 years he has grown to love the mix of the coastal eco-system here, noting the mix of mangroves, wetlands, coral reefs, bays, and cenotes among the things that makes it incredible. He currently works for the Mexican Organization of Environmental Conservation (MOEC) public policy and creating an educational framework to help citizens participate in the sustainability process.
Paul pointed out that the Riviera Maya has two distinct local communities; Mexicans who are native to the region or have come here for work and the Expat community comprising foreigners who have made this their home. He had some advice for those who understand the value of the environment but are not sure what steps to take to conserve it. For the many here who have incredible passion for the future health of the ecosystem the big question is “What can I do to make the future viable?â€
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One of the things that Paul strongly recommended was to start using biodegradable sunscreen. He stressed how important it is, given the toxic nature of regular sunscreen and the role it plays in polluting the water.
Suntan lotion has chemicals that are disruptors of the genetic processes of marine life and will actually inhibit the way corral grow. This applies especially to the cenotes, because whatever you put in the cenote will eventually end up in the ocean.
Another point that Paul makes is in regards to the treatment of animals, such as in Akumal that draws many visitors who want to see the turtle population that inhabits the area, but many are intervening in the turtles’ lifestyle. These creatures have to eat without stress, so please give them their own space, and do not sit on them.
Also, it’s best to not take photos with wild animals on the street, many are obtained illegally and then drugged to keep them docile day and night. We need to see them as living beings that deserve our respect, and learn to coexist with them rather than use them as a photo op.
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This is a beautiful peninsula where you can play a part in environmental awareness and prevention by becoming more aware of what the issues are. By taking basic steps to not contribute to the negative impact on your surroundings, even seemingly small actions can have a big impact on the ecosystem around you.
If you’d like more information about living in the Riviera Maya or are interested in purchasing property here, we invite you to visit our main website where you can search further. Please get in touch with one of our agents who will gladly assist you in any questions you might have.
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…
we make it happen!
