Grupo Xcaret has decided not to proceed with the megaproject that involved constructing nine hotels in the municipality of Santa Elena, near the Uxmal Archaeological Zone.
This project posed an environmental threat to the Maya jungle and the local population. Greenpeace Mexico reported that the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) issued a resolution on July 29, 2024, concluding and archiving the Environmental Impact Assessment and Land Use Change Procedure requested by the company Alto Comercializadora y Operadora Turística S. DE RL DE CV.
The affected land is adjacent to the Uxmal Archaeological Zone in Santa Elena, Yucatán, and is registered under the names of Miguel Quintana Pali’s Jr., who is the director of Grupo Xcaret.
The megaproject aimed to deforest over 150 hectares of jungle, potentially felling around 165,000 trees. It involved constructing nine 18-story hotels, excavating the ground to a depth of 36 meters for artificial features like a 59-meter waterfall, a canyon, and even a building referred to as “La Catedral.” Additionally, the company planned to develop macrolots in various sections of the land, intending to create more tourist projects and residential spaces over a 100-year operation period, which would have resulted in further environmental impacts.
Greenpeace Mexico considers Xcaret’s withdrawal from the project a victory for the Maya jungle and acknowledges the power of concerned citizens and the media who closely followed this issue.
Carlos Samayoa, Selva Maya Campaigner for Greenpeace Mexico, stated: “From Greenpeace, we firmly say NO to the urbanization of the Maya jungle. The fact that this project has taken a step back is thanks to the vigilant public. Media outlets expressed significant concern by spreading our alerts, and this had a positive effect, allowing us to break through the darkness that surrounds companies seeking immense economic benefits at the expense of the environment. This is a victory for the Maya jungle, but we must remain vigilant to achieve stronger protection for this bioculturally valuable area—the green lung of Mexico.”
Source: Haz Ruido
