Coral reefs are one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, they have ecosystem functions that are essential for coastal communities, they provide valuable resources including fisheries, coastal protection and tourism revenue.
The MAR is of great tourist attraction for its beautiful beaches that line the coast and the opportunities it offers to dive, snorkel and contemplate wildlife that depend on healthy coral reefs; Although there are also attractions in its jungles and forests such as cenotes, archaeological zones, communities, among others.
Around 20 million visitors (adding tourists and cruise passengers) came to the region every year.
Tourism generates significant economic benefits to the region, but also pressure on the natural and cultural resources of the millions of inhabitants who depend directly or indirectly on the MAR.
Even though the issue of sustainability in tourism has grown in recent years, the goal of making tourism a true engine for development, a tool for conservation and a way to increase the quality of life in local communities is far away.
The solutions for achieving sustainable and social tourism are not unique, however, one of the main lines of action to promote the issue is the development of policies with a vision that meets the objective of looking to the future (long-term) and to achieve regional agreements, with a focus on both ecosystems and tourist flows in the countries.
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