We all know that Playa del Carmen, a half-hour north of Akumal, is the fastest growing city in Latin America. It has been that way for years. Many of us also know that the Riviera Maya is the fastest growing resort destination in the world. We hear these facts and think little or nothing about them as we go about our lives, whether we live in Akumal or vacation there. But the fact of the matter is this growth is coming closer—a major development for up to 250,000 people is in the works and it will be directly across the highway! We all have choices; we can hide our heads in the sand and say it will go away. We can squabble amongst ourselves trying to decide what the right solution is. We can throw our hands in the air and say there is nothing we can do.

In this writer’s opinion, it is time to band together to solve the problem. We can argue over whether we can stop the development, reduce it, or do nothing about it, but the bottom line is that in order to have any chance of a sustainable future we need to try working collectively.

What can we do? CEA is proposing, as is their mission, that they monitor the impact of development on the regional ecosystems and culture; to report findings and their significance to the public through education; and, through education, to influence public policy. This is not only the first step, but it is a cornerstone to all that can and should happen. In order to do this they need your support. CEA needs to send representatives to meetings locally and nationwide, and needs to enhance and improve its ability to report its findings. This includes improvements on the Web site, creation and implementation of a more intense marketing and public relations plan, and enhancing the CEA Center, which will subsequently increase the number of people who visit it and provide better educational materials. In addition, there are workshops that should be held that will help establish Akumal as a world-class example of sustainable tourism.

We can look at the situation at hand as the glass is half empty, or accept the challenge as an opportunity to make a difference at a time when the whole world will be watching. I personally believe we can make a difference and we can become an example, a beacon, if you will, for the world. Why do I have such strong convictions? Like you, I know that Akumal is a unique place that attracts a very special type of person. And special people brought together in unique places make for amazing results!

So, in closing, I am asking that everyone become involved. There are many ways in which you can help; please don’t let the time pass as you decide what you want to do. This development will happen and the deal will be closed by November of this year, if we don’t do something about it. You can help by making a donation to CEA, who will continue to promote sustainable tourism development in the area. You can organize a fundraiser. You can renew your membership and get others to join. You can donate frequent flyer miles so staff will be able to travel as needed.

Thank you for agreeing to be part of the solution and doing whatever you can to help.

With respect and appreciation,
Lydia L. Pontius
CEA supporter and staff member

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