Cancún Revitalizes with Sunken Boats as Reefs

In a joint effort, the Rotary Club and naval forces plan to sink abandoned vessels in Cancún's Nichupté lagoon to create artificial reefs. Jesús Ordaz Campos, president of the Cancún Commemorative Rotary Club, explained that the project is a collaboration with the Nautical Associates of Quintana Roo and state environmental authorities. The project will initially focus on five areas where there is a need for coral growth.

Campos explained that the abandoned vessels in the lagoon have become pollutants. Additionally, other boats will be donated for this cause. This is the first time such a project has been initiated in the area, and it will require the cooperation of the Rotary Club, local entrepreneurs, and the government.

The project, which will be carried out throughout the year, involves lifting and cleaning the vessels. The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) will then specify which types of vessels can be sunk to promote coral growth. Campos praised the collaborative efforts involved in the project, emphasizing the urgent need to clean up the Nichupté Lagoon to prevent further pollution.

Currently, 50 vessels have been identified for the project. It is expected that within the next three months, the first steps will be taken to remove these boats. Francisco Fernández Millán, president of the Nautical Associates of Quintana Roo, has repeatedly stressed the importance of this project, as many of these vessels were abandoned by their owners, with some even sinking due to hurricanes.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainability and environmental care, aiming to raise awareness about ecosystem conservation. The project also has the potential to enhance the area's appeal as a tourist attraction.