HOLBOX ISLAND
Mexico, 2014
Holbox Island, whose name translates to 'Black Hole' in the Mayan language, is a beacon of natural beauty and ecological diversity. Nestled within the Yum Balam natural reserve, this small paradise is just a short boat ride from the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Despite its alluring charm, the island's ecosystem is currently facing a significant threat. A proposed project by Penisola Maya Developments seeks to construct a massive tourist resort complex spanning 980 hectares. Since 2012, the Mexican Ministry of Environment has been responsible for evaluating the environmental impact of this project, which has sparked numerous protests from environmental activists concerned about the fate of this fragile ecosystem.
The Ensenada project has created a deep divide among the 2,000 inhabitants of Holbox Island, which covers an area of just 50 square kilometers. While some locals have succumbed to the lucrative offers from developers, selling their land, others staunchly oppose the project. This division has led to increased military and police presence, with their vehicles being the only ones allowed on the island, aside from golf cart-style electric vehicles. Holbox is home to a variety of endangered species, including sea turtles, dolphins, and whale sharks, as well as protected plant species like mangroves. The construction of a resort would not only threaten this biodiversity but also fundamentally alter the island's unique character.
Currently, tourists who visit Holbox arrive at the port of Chiquila and often explore the island barefoot, soaking in its laid-back, bohemian vibe. The thought of a sprawling luxury resort with numerous swimming pools and a golf course—requiring constant watering and diverting freshwater resources—seems utterly incongruous with the island's current ethos. Such a development would likely attract a different type of tourist, drive up prices, and erode the island's untouched, serene atmosphere. Moreover, Holbox holds historical significance as a stopover for revolutionaries traveling from Mexico to Cuba in the 1950s, adding another layer of cultural importance that could be overshadowed by commercial interests. The future of Holbox hangs in the balance, with its natural and historical legacy at risk of being overshadowed by economic pressures.
Published here and on the paper edition of L'Espresso (Italy).
more photos on request...