### **Concerns Arise Over “La Abundancia” Tourist Project in Cabo Pulmo**
Civil society groups have launched a campaign to support the local community of Cabo Pulmo, raising concerns over a proposed tourist development named “La Abundancia.” This venture, granted approval by the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat), contradicts the stance of the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp), which argues it’s incompatible with the National Park Management Program.
Greenpeace Mexico, alongside the Coalition Cabo Pulmo Vivo, highlighted this issue, noting that “La Abundancia” received approval on September 12, under the administration of the former president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador. This approval became public on October 12, following the commencement of President Claudia Sheinbaum’s term.
The project conflicts with guidelines established in Cabo Pulmo since it was declared a National Park in 1995 to protect its rich maritime biodiversity, much of which is endemic. Critics, including Conanp, assert that “La Abundancia” threatens the ecosystem’s integrity and conservation objectives for the Protected Natural Area (PNA).
This project, proposed by Gre El Rincón S de RL de C.V., plans to cover 68.6 hectares, including infrastructure like a hotel, residences, beach clubs, roads, services, and a commercial area. Alarmingly, it encroaches on 500 square meters of the coastal zone within the National Park and plans to draw water from the already deficit-stricken Cabo Pulmo aquifer, exacerbating the region’s ongoing water crisis.
Greenpeace has warned that alongside constructing a desalination plant, the development would generate over 2,279 kilograms of solid waste daily, totaling approximately 832 tons yearly.
In response to public pressure, Semarnat is currently re-evaluating the project’s approval. Aleira Lara, a campaign director for Greenpeace Mexico, mentioned that Semarnat acknowledged the project’s lack of a technical justifying study for a change in land use authorization and absence of permission from the National Water Commission (Conagua).
Lara emphasized the urgency for Semarnat to address these discrepancies, given that the General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection (LGEEPA) mandates a public consultation process and necessary compliance for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
Civil society looks forward to a potential legal battle to ensure the project aligns with environmental laws. Nevertheless, Greenpeace and other advocacy groups remain vigilant, urging the government to block such developments that endanger ecological wealth and the community’s well-being.
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### **Additional Insight: Broader Implications on Protected Areas**
Recent developments in environmental policy raise significant concerns over inconsistencies in protecting Mexico’s natural zones. Cabo Pulmo’s scenario illustrates a broader challenge where economic interests frequently clash with ecological preservation.
Throughout Mexico, protected areas often attract investment due to their natural beauty, which ironically puts them at risk. Local communities and conservation groups emphasize the need for sustainable tourism initiatives, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.
Environmental experts suggest that Cabo Pulmo should be a model for Clown management, not exploitation, given its success story in marine conservation. This ongoing debate about “La Abundancia” highlights critical discussions on environmental governance and sustainable growth paths.
Public awareness and advocacy are crucial as they push for heightened government accountability and reinforce conservation efforts that prioritize long-term ecological health over short-term economic gains. Whether Cabo Pulmo’s future is defined by preservation or development, depends on active civic participation and responsible policy-making.