“Unleashing the Potential of Sargassum: Overcoming Regulatory Hurdles”

The absence of official standards or a legal framework regulating the use and exploitation of sargassum is hindering the progress of projects and ventures based on this macroalgae. This lack of regulation also limits its potential economic and environmental impacts and obstructs its marketing or exportation. Esteban Amaro Mauricio, director of the Sargassum Monitoring Network of Quintana Roo, has highlighted these issues.

Amaro Mauricio suggests that if this marine plant were included in the National Fisheries Chart, its use would be much more viable. Ideally, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) and the state government should develop guidelines for managing sargassum waste. This would ensure compliance with the National Program for the Prevention and Integral Management of Special Management Waste 2022-2024.

Amaro Mauricio stated, "Currently, there is no classification for sargassum as a fishery resource, raw material, or waste. This needs to be clearly defined." He also noted the increasing contamination of sargassum with heavy metals and microplastics, which is exacerbating marine pollution.

If collected at sea, sargassum could be considered a fishery resource, as it is alive in the water. However, once it reaches the beaches and dies, it becomes waste. This requires suitable regulation and consideration of international legislation regarding the waters from which it is extracted. Amaro Mauricio emphasized the importance of a regional approach, like that of the Caribbean, in managing sargassum.

Alfonso Campos Arjona, director of a law firm in Quintana Roo, stressed the need for clear regulation. He has observed missed opportunities due to the lack of regulation in his 10 years in the entity. Campos Arjona highlighted that although strategies and guidelines exist, they are not mandatory. "Without a legal certificate, no business or entrepreneur will risk investing," he said.

Mexico is currently working on its first regulation for sargassum, but Semarnat has been slow to act. Governor Mara Lezama has insisted on the need for specific regulations for Quintana Roo. "A state regulatory system needs to be created that treats sargassum as waste, from collection and transport to final disposition, as well as for industrial purposes," said Campos Arjona.

Once sargassum reaches the coast and dies, it becomes a state responsibility and must be handled as special waste, neither hazardous nor urban. At sea, it is the responsibility of the Federation, which must coordinate with the state to provide certainty to companies through an origin certificate. Campos Arjona concluded, "If there is political will, the only thing missing is resources."