Drought and Extreme Weather Threaten Agriculture in the Mayan Region of Tulum

Climatic conditions in the Mayan region of Tulum have become increasingly extreme, severely affecting agricultural activity in the area. The growing intensity of droughts, combined with frequent hydrometeorological events such as torrential rains and atypical winds, has degraded farmland and drastically reduced crop productivity.

This situation has forced many farming families to rethink their means of subsistence, focusing solely on the self-consumption of the little they are able to harvest. Staple foods such as corn, squash, and beans barely suffice to feed the producers themselves, eliminating the possibility of selling their products as they once did.

The loss of agriculture as a source of income is worsening the economic situation of Mayan communities, which have relied on farming for generations. Meanwhile, local authorities and organizations are faced with the challenge of implementing climate adaptation strategies and agricultural support to prevent a food crisis in the region.

The government is carrying out several actions to mitigate the effects of drought and climate change in the Mayan region of Tulum, focusing on climate adaptation and resilience, as well as the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.

Climate Adaptation and Resilience:

• The cultivation of drought-resistant crops, such as forage cactus, is being promoted to reduce water dependency and lessen the impact of drought.
• Strategies are being developed to preserve and restore the health of agricultural ecosystems, helping crops withstand extreme weather events.
• A municipal plan is being implemented that includes mitigation and adaptation actions aimed at reducing emissions and increasing Tulum’s climate resilience.

Sustainable Agricultural Practices:

• Conservation and sustainable use of soil, water, and genetic resources—vital to agriculture—are being encouraged.
• Practices that promote efficient water use, soil conservation, and biodiversity protection are being incentivized, with the goal of enhancing agricultural sustainability in the region.
• Support is being provided for the implementation of rainwater collection and storage systems to ensure water access during dry periods.

Support for Farmers:

• Financial assistance and technical guidance are being offered to help farmers adapt to new climate conditions and improve their agricultural practices.
• The distribution of drought-resistant seeds is being facilitated to ensure successful crop production under adverse conditions.