Mexico advances sustainable industry with sargassum and soil‑microbe research

Researchers, universities and companies in Mexico are pursuing nearly 200 projects to transform the invasive sargassum macroalga that clogs Caribbean beaches into high‑value products such as biofuels, biofertilizers, bioplastics, construction materials and cosmetics. A circular‑economy hub (PODECIBI) is planned for Puerto Morelos to collect and process the algae before it decomposes, aiming to cut environmental damage and create new economic activity in Quintana Roo.

In Michoacán, a UNAM‑led initiative isolated native beneficial bacteria and fungi from three agricultural regions. The strains will be mass‑produced for smallholders to boost agroecological practices, improve crop growth, provide biological pest control and lower dependence on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The project involves the Institute of Ecosystem and Sustainability Research, LANIES and state agricultural agencies.