Sargassum levels reach historic highs in Quintana Roo amid health and economic concerns

The sargassum seaweed season is showing signs of easing in Quintana Roo, Mexico, with a 25 percent reduction in arrivals in recent weeks. However, the total volume for the year remains at historic levels, with approximately 109,800 tons removed so far. Experts note that current levels are significantly higher than previous record years, prompting calls to reserve financial resources for a potentially strong 2027 season.

Environmental and health concerns have emerged alongside the influx. A UNAM study revealed that workers collecting sargassum in areas like Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen are being exposed to hydrogen sulfide concentrations—averaging 1.8 ppm and peaking at 50 ppm—which exceeds the safe 8-hour occupational limit of 1 ppm. This gas, produced by decomposing algae, may also affect tourists and residents.

In Cancun, hotel associations have rejected proposals to fund offshore sargassum collection, arguing that jurisdiction over high seas belongs to the Mexican Navy and that hotels already invest heavily in beach cleaning.

Meanwhile, in the United States, researchers at Florida International University and other institutions are exploring ways to repurpose the seaweed. They are investigating the extraction of valuable ingredients, such as sodium alginate, to transform the waste into food-grade components.