Akumal Norte's Urban Solid Waste and Recycling Program
Great Progress This Year With More to Come!
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:
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:
Ongoing Infrastructure Improvements
We’ve made several important upgrades to support the recycling initiative:
We’re also working with Coca-Cola (Bepensa), local beer distributors, and OXXO to:
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.
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:
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