Tulum once again positions itself as a protagonist in the protection of wildlife with a strengthened campaign to safeguard sea turtles that choose its coast to nest each year. The nesting season poses a significant challenge for both the authorities and the local community, which is why a series of coordinated actions involving different sectors of the municipality have been implemented.
After more than 80 kilometers of Tulum coastline, the joint work between public institutions, environmental organizations and the private sector has led to the creation of eight specialized camps, whose main task is protect sea turtle nests and contribute to the conservation of these species at risk.
Active camps: the central axis of protection
This program, which is intensified during the World Sea Turtle Day In June, it brings together efforts from entities such as Flora, Fauna, and Culture of Mexico, the Akumal Ecological Center, Ecobahía Foundation, Friends of Bahía Soliman, Save Akumal and the participation of the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (Conanp). All of them, together with the city council through the project Kanan Áak, are coordinated so that surveillance is continuous and effective.
The main purpose of these camps is safeguard nests from threats such as predators, looting, or alteration of their natural environmentIn addition, data collection and scientific monitoring are being promoted to improve conservation strategies in the coming years.
Joint work and community policing
Collaboration between civil associations, the hotel sector, environmental authorities and local communities has been key to consolidating the program. They have been implemented awareness talks and workshops so that both tourism service providers and local merchants understand the importance of protecting nests and learn to identify potential risks.
It highlights the fact that there are already more than 300 people trained as community watchdogsThese people act as eyes on the beach, alerting you to any anomalies and maintaining direct communication with the authorities. This increases coverage throughout the season.
Environmental education and promotion of citizen reporting
An essential part of the strategy is found in the environmental education and awarenessThrough workshops and informational activities, citizens and visitors receive guidelines on how to respond to the presence of sea turtles and how to properly coexist on the beaches during nesting season.
The authorities insist on the need for the population to actively participate. It is recalled that Poaching eggs or tampering with nests is prohibited and constitutes a federal crime.. To report any suspicious activity, the contact number is 911It is emphasized that turtle protection is everyone's responsibility and that anyone can contribute through respect and vigilance.
Challenges for conservation and local engagement
The municipality of Tulum was already facing one of the major tasks of the region: maintain their beaches as a safe haven for sea turtles, despite the growing challenges arising from tourism development and environmental threats. involvement of all actors, from NGOs to hotels and citizens, demonstrates that broad collaboration is possible and effective when it comes to preserving endangered species.
The progress of the current season and the protection efforts have consolidated Tulum as a a benchmark in the defense of coastal biodiversityCommitment to these iconic reptiles continues to grow, driven by an increasingly sustainable, informed, and participatory society, which is key to ensuring that future generations can continue to see sea turtles in their natural habitat.
