Protecting Paradise: New Natural Protected Areas Proposed in Solidaridad, Cozumel, and Tulum

Great news from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat)! They’ve opened a public consultation about creating new Natural Protected Areas in Solidaridad, Cozumel, and Tulum. This initiative is all about preserving the beautiful nature we love.

The National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (Conanp) will conduct a Preliminary Justification Study (EPJ) to support this effort. The goal is to establish the Felipe Carrillo Puerto Flora and Fauna Protection Area in these municipalities.

So, what does this mean? Well, creating this Protected Natural Area (ANP) will help maintain the unique jungles and coastal wetlands of the Yucatan Peninsula. These areas are crucial for protecting local wildlife, controlling floods, acting as barriers against hurricanes, improving water quality, and boosting pollination.

This project is vital for the protection of over 1,660 species of animals and plants, including black and spider howler monkeys, jaguars, shrews, tropical porcupines, ocellated turkeys, king vultures, and plants like despeinada, pochote, and granadillo. Plus, it will safeguard at least 34 pollinating species, such as butterflies, moths, bees, cinnamon hummingbirds, and fruit bats.

Semarnat and Conanp are dedicated to enhancing biodiversity and supporting ecosystem services that benefit local communities. If this plan gets approved, 53 hectares, including the port of Punta Venado and the lands of the company Sactun (formerly Calica), will become protected areas.

Let’s support this fantastic initiative to preserve our precious environment and promote a better quality of life for everyone!