Conanp flags environmental risks for Royal Caribbean project in Cozumel

The National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (Conanp) has issued a technical opinion stating that the Royal Beach Club Cozumel project, promoted by Royal Caribbean, is unfeasible due to potential environmental impacts. The assessment, part of an environmental impact evaluation by Semarnat, warns that the development could harm coral reefs, sea turtles, seagrass, and mangroves, while also restricting public access to Playa Sur.

The proposed 17.42-hectare project aims to accommodate up to 4,000 daily visitors. Conanp noted that parts of the development are located within the Cozumel Reefs National Park, specifically in Intensive Use Zone III, the Maritime Terrestrial Federal Zone, and the reef zone. The agency raised concerns regarding the installation of 2,000 lounge chairs and 24 palapa-style structures, classifying them as fixed infrastructure that could damage coral formations.

Additionally, the commission questioned the project's high tourist density. While the park's management program allows for low-density tourism, the club would add 4,000 daily visitors to the existing 4,000 people who use the area for diving and snorkeling. The technical report also documented sea turtle nests near the existing pier and warned that direct lighting and sand compaction could negatively affect turtle protection protocols.