“Unveiling Yucatán’s Environmental Impact: SEMARNAT’s Strategic Efforts”

The environmental impact of real estate development is a key focus area in Yucatán, Mexico. This issue is being discussed at the second Environmental Table 2024, coordinated by the head of the Coordinating Unit of Office of Representation and Territorial Management of SEMARNAT. The meeting also includes the supervision of public service work to improve service delivery.

Román Hernández Martínez, the representative of the branch, is ensuring that all operations conducted by the Office of Representation comply with regulations and legal timelines to provide better service to citizens.

The Yucatán Peninsula is home to a wide range of ecosystems, including jungles, mangroves, cenotes, and coastal areas. These ecosystems are closely tied to human activities and community development. The impact of real estate development, especially in the city of Mérida and coastal areas, is a significant concern.

For future generations to inherit a healthy environment along with their homes and heritage, it's crucial that these development projects adhere to environmental standards. This is being done without perceiving the environmental sector as a hindrance to investment.

The National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (Conanp) is analyzing issues affecting Mexico's protected natural areas. In Yucatán, there's considerable pressure on wetland ecosystems like mangroves, which are vital for human life. Mangroves protect coasts from hurricanes and storms, serve as breeding grounds for various marine species, and add to the scenic beauty of the landscape. Therefore, it's essential for the population to protect these ecosystems.

The National Forestry Commission (Conafor) is warning the public about the fire season. Over 2,000 hectares have already been burned in Yucatán, and forest fires have led to the loss of about 8,000 hectares in the peninsula. These fires not only damage ecosystems but also cause pollution and can result in human casualties.

The Yucatán Peninsula Basin Agency of the National Water Commission (Conagua) is monitoring the region's climate and issuing alerts about the dry season. With temperatures expected to rise above 40 degrees Celsius, it's important to take precautions. The agency advises careful use of water and energy during this period of heat and drought, as resource availability is strained by increased demand.

SEMARNAT is committed to environmental care and natural resource protection, as well as ensuring the well-being of the people by guaranteeing their constitutional right to a healthy environment.