“Urgent Alert: Akumal Coral Bleaching Crisis – Time to Act!”

Professional divers in Akumal are sounding the alarm over increasing instances of coral bleaching in the bay. They believe this is a result of various practices that are causing harm to the local ecosystem. Carlos Solís, a seasoned local diver, along with colleagues from Akumal and other locations such as Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Cancún, and Isla Mujeres, have noted that the bleaching is most severe in shallower reefs, particularly those between five and ten meters deep.

According to Solís, the rate at which the corals are deteriorating is increasing. This is due to a combination of factors, including pollution from wastewater and harmful tourism practices, such as boats anchoring directly over the reefs. Solís is calling for immediate action to mitigate this issue, starting with the management of wastewater from coastal properties and educating tourism service providers on the importance of preserving the reefs.

Solís also expressed concern about spearfishing, which he believes is adding to the stress and damage being inflicted on the reefs. This activity is worsening the already precarious situation of the shallow reefs, which are being impacted by other factors. In summary, the health of Akumal's coral reefs is at risk due to a combination of pollution, irresponsible tourism, and illegal fishing activities.