Government to Increase Oversight of Cayo Rosario Development

The Department of the Environment (DOE) and key regulatory agencies are stepping up monitoring of the Cayo Rosario Development following public concerns about its potential environmental impact. The update was shared in a joint press release issued by the DOE and several government agencies, including the Ministry of Blue Economy, Fisheries Department, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Coastal Zone Management, Lands and Surveys, and others.

According to the release, the project received environmental clearance in 2018 after going through the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. An Environmental Compliance Plan (ECP) was signed and later updated in 2020. While the project met the required standards, concerns remain about its location near sensitive ecosystems and fly-fishing areas.

To address these concerns, the government will improve coordination among agencies, conduct a joint site visit, carry out regular monitoring, and request frequent updates from the developer. The DOE’s San Pedro office will also increase compliance inspections.

Officials stated that the project can proceed sustainably if all conditions in the ECP and related permits are followed.