On June 5, 2025, environmental authorities announced the launch of a nationwide beach cleanup campaign, beginning with coastal areas in Yucatán. The initiative—organized by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) in coordination with state governments and local NGOs—aims to eliminate 100 percent of single-use plastics along Mexico’s coastlines by the end of July.
Representatives from SEMARNAT, the Yucatán State Environmental Agency, and volunteer organizations convened at Progreso Beach to conduct the first cleanup event. Hundreds of participants, including university students, fishermen’s cooperatives, and local residents, spent the morning collecting plastic bottles, packaging, and discarded fishing gear from the shoreline. All collected debris will be sorted for recycling or proper disposal at designated facilities.
The minister responsible for marine conservation highlighted the ecological and economic importance of keeping beaches free of plastic waste: “Healthy beaches support biodiversity, tourism, and the livelihoods of coastal communities. This campaign is a crucial step toward fulfilling Mexico’s commitment under the Global Plastics Treaty to reduce marine pollution.” He further noted that replicating the Progreso model in other states will involve partnerships with port authorities and local industries to establish permanent waste segregation points.
In addition to volunteer cleanups, the campaign includes educational workshops in coastal schools, training residents on sustainable fishing practices and alternatives to plastic packaging. Community leaders stressed that long-term success depends on reducing plastic consumption and strengthening beach cleanup brigades year-round. Citizens are encouraged to register for upcoming events via municipal government websites and social media channels.
