Mexico is charting a new course for its shoreline destinations with the launch of the Integrated Collaborative Approaches for Sustainable Tourism project, or iCOAST.
This national initiative, led by the Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR), seeks to transform coastal travel into a force for environmental protection and community prosperity. By moving toward low-carbon models and reducing pollution, the program ensures that Mexico’s famous beaches and marine life remain healthy for future generations.
Tourism Minister Josefina Rodríguez Zamora emphasized that the goal is a structural shift toward climate resilience. This transformation will be particularly visible in states like Baja California, Nayarit, and Jalisco, which are known for both their economic importance and their rich coastal biodiversity. By focusing on these regions, the project aims to prove that a thriving tourism industry can coexist with a healthy planet.
The environmental targets of iCOAST are ambitious and clear. SECTUR estimates the project will prevent more than 405,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Beyond air quality, the initiative focuses on cleaning up the coastlines by reducing plastic waste, toxic residues, and hazardous chemicals. These efforts directly support the sustainable management of fragile marine ecosystems, keeping the waters clear and the wildlife protected.
Social equity is just as central to the project as environmental health. Over 877,000 people are expected to benefit from the program, which prioritizes gender equality and social inclusion. By creating “green jobs” and supporting local businesses, iCOAST ensures that the financial rewards of tourism are shared more broadly among the people who live and work in these coastal territories.
The project recently cleared a major milestone by completing its preparation phase and fulfilling all technical requirements. It has now moved to the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Secretariat for a final technical review. This stage involves close coordination between international agencies and Mexican officials to ensure the project’s social and environmental frameworks are as strong as possible.
Once final approval is granted, the implementation will be a collaborative effort involving several government branches, including the Ministries of Environment and Finance. Together with private-sector partners and local communities, they will deploy clean technologies and promote a circular economy.
Backed by the UN Environment Program and the UN Development Program, iCOAST represents a sophisticated, modern approach to making Mexico a global leader in responsible travel.
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