Denied! Artificial Reef Plan North of Playa del Carmen

The Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) has denied the Grand Coral development's request for permits to install artificial reefs along its coastline north of Playa del Carmen. The development proposed an environmental impact project that included the installation of a 300-meter barrier with an artificial reef for beach restoration. However, the application, submitted in July 2023, was suspended by the department in November due to insufficient quality data.

The refusal, which took place on May 1st, was one of 14 such decisions, contrasting with the two permits granted by the agency for similar projects in the city center. The project was proposed by an individual named Puerto Coral. His plan involved the installation and operation of an artificial reef on the beach next to the Corasol tourist complex.

According to the project's Environmental Impact Statement (MIA), Puerto Coral proposed the installation of a breakwater in an area near Xcalacoco. This location is known for its sand erosion and visible rock formations that hinder coastline enjoyment at certain times of the year.

The MIA noted that submerged permeable breakwaters are currently considered an alternative for coastal protection, especially in areas where some wave energy transmission is acceptable, such as tourist beaches. Puerto Coral argued that the chosen location is ideal for such structures, citing previous environmental impact studies conducted in the area.

He explained that an environmental diagnosis was performed to identify the relevant ecological parameters and criteria. As a result, considering the importance of seagrasses, a proposal was made for the placement of six modules.