We recognize that Akumal Norte faces serious urban challenges that must be addressed—not only internally but in coordination with municipal authorities. Among the most urgent issues are the management of solid and hazardous waste, which continue to impact our environment and overall quality of life. These challenges require collective resident support and structured negotiations with the Municipality.

This is why the recycling initiative is part of the government project, formally introduced during the Annual Meeting of the Homeowners Association in February 2025. In collaboration with the Centro Ecológico Akumal (CEA), Akumal Norte has since taken meaningful steps toward becoming a cleaner, community through the launch of a comprehensive Urban Solid Waste and Recycling Program. 

What We’ve Achieved So Far

The program has already made significant progress:

• Community Guidelines Created: Clear, practical rules were developed for homes, businesses, vacation rentals, and visitors to promote responsible waste disposal, recycling, composting, and environmental protection.
• Training Sessions Held: We’ve conducted six recycling training sessions and two composting workshops, involving property managers, service providers, and housekeeping staff. In addition, two workshops with property managers, owners, and rental agency representatives helped shape and refine the community regulations collaboratively.
• Guest Awareness Materials: Environmental guidance is now being shared with guests before and during their stay, promoting more responsible tourism.
• Community Participation: The proposed rules are  available for public review on Vecinos website:  https://www.vecinosakumalnorte.org/solid-waste-rules   we encourage residents to share feedback and help shape the final version.
  
  

Leading by Example

Many properties in Akumal Norte have already implemented recycling systems and are seeing measurable results. Condominios Yalkucai, Villa Balam Ek, Casa Luna, Casa Alux, and Mi Casa del Mar are just a few that have installed on-site recycling stations and are leading by example—reducing waste and improving guest satisfaction in the process.

Why the Rules Matter

Akumal Norte is surrounded by fragile ecosystems—sea turtle nesting beaches, mangroves, and coral reefs—that need protection. Clear, consistent rules are essential to maintaining balance between development and sustainability. These guidelines help:

• Protect wildlife from harmful waste
• Keep streets, beaches, and mangroves clean
• Provide a more responsible and rewarding experience for visitors
  
  

Ongoing Infrastructure Improvements

We’ve made several important upgrades to support the recycling initiative:

• Improved signage and recycling container placement
• Monthly recycling collection throughout the community
• Twice-weekly pickups for larger businesses like restaurants

We’re also working with Coca-Cola (Bepensa), local beer distributors, and OXXO to:

• Support PET plastic collection
• Donate public-use waste bins

In addition, the recycling team recently met with local authorities. A representative from the Dirección de Ecología de Tulum and SEMA ( Secretary of the Environment) will join us during the community clean-up on July 31st, organized in partnership with Cenotes Urbanos, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting cenotes, mangroves, and lagoons. 

A post-cleanup lunch at La Buena Vida will also serve as an opportunity to strengthen our collaboration with the government.

This is a key step in seeking official recognition for our efforts. We are aiming for this certification to encourage greater collaboration with the municipality and, ideally, help streamline the annual municipal licensing process for properties that actively participate.

Recycling Services by Akumal CERO

Akumal CERO has provided a vital service to properties for the past few years.

• $200 MXN/month for residential properties
• $400 MXN/month for large businesses such as restaurants
  
  

Follow the links below for full guides:

• Click here to view the recycling pick-up calendar
• Click here to view the full recycling guide
  
  

Upcoming Projects: Recycling Stations & Roadside Bins

1. Community Recycling Station (Entrance Gate / Pluma)

We plan to install a centralized recycling station near the gate.

It will feature durable, weather-resistant bins for:

• Glass
• Cardboard
• Plastic
• Aluminum

The estimated cost is $180,000 MXN, and we are actively seeking sponsorships and donations of materials or funds to make this project possible. We are also in conversations with local businesses  to provide construction materials, and some have already agreed to contribute, helping bring this important community project closer to reality.

2. Roadside Trash Bins (Gate to Yal-Kú)
We also plan to install recycled plastic bins with a wooden look along the road to Yal-Kú. 

Each bin costs $12,000 MXN, and we’re inviting businesses and property owners to sponsor one or more.

These improvements will make waste disposal easier, reduce litter, and enhance the visual quality of our public spaces.

For Rental Property Owners

If you rent out your property, we ask for your help in educating your guests. A simple action like printing and posting our recycling guide in the kitchen or welcome guest book can go a long way.

Click here to download and print the guide.

This ensures that all guests understand and follow the community’s recycling practices.

Akumal is evolving—and together, we can guide that evolution in the right direction. By working as a community and collaborating with local authorities, we are paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable, and more resilient future.

Thank you,

Akumal Norte Urban Solid Waste Management Team
https://vecinosakumalnorte.org/solid-waste-eng