Erosion threatens tourism at Venezuela's Playa Parguito

Coastal service providers and state specialists report that active erosion is rapidly reducing the sand strip at Playa Parguito in Nueva Esparta, Venezuela. The advancing waves have undermined the shoreline, causing loss of native vegetation and many coconut trees, and limiting space for beach amenities.

Marine biologist Cristina Fiol attributes the retreat to a combination of global sea‑level rise and local oceanographic events such as strong lee currents, which transport sediment offshore. Human constructions on the dune barrier have further accelerated the loss by preventing natural sand replenishment.

Tourism operators warn that the shrinking beach endangers local economic activity. Fiol and other experts recommend comprehensive environmental studies by institutions such as the Universidad de Oriente and Fundación La Salle, and advise against building hard structures like breakwaters without impact assessments. Authorities are urged to convene technical panels to evaluate mitigation measures.