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Sargassum Composting

A Natural Alternative to Regenerate Our Soils

By Elizabeth Bautista 

Since 2011, the coasts of the Mexican Caribbean, especially those of the state of Quintana Roo have faced a serious environmental challenge: the massive and constant arrival of sargassum. This phenomenon has severely impacted tourism, damaged the natural image of our beaches, and harmed coastal ecosystems, especially the reef system.

However, amid this worrisome scenario, an opportunity arises: far from being merely waste, sargassum can become a valuable resource for soil regeneration—if properly managed using composting techniques.

How dangerous is sargassum, really?

One of the main fears associated with sargassum is its heavy metal content and the emission of hydrogen sulfide during its decomposition on the beaches. It’s true that this gas—linked to other sources like sewage and industrial facilities—can cause respiratory irritation, dermatitis, or conjunctivitis. However, there are no conclusive scientific studies directly linking sargassum to human health issues from heavy metals.

The real danger lies in the fact that, since 2011, sargassum has been collected from Quintana Roo's beaches without any protective measures for those doing the work. The public health risks from heavy metals and arsenic are certainly concerning, but what’s even more alarming is the daily exposure of the workers handling sargassum without any protection—no proper clothing, no masks, and no showering systems to remove contaminants after their shifts.

Although SEMARNAT (Mexico's Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources) has established safety protocols for sargassum collection and disposal, it’s clear that these guidelines have not been followed. Neither authorities nor private companies have managed sargassum disposal properly—much of it has been dumped indiscriminately into the jungle, severely affecting aquifers, flora, and fauna in illegal dumping grounds. In fact, there are no official landfills with proper treatment cells for gases, leachates, and the heavy metals that sargassum often contains.

What do studies say about composting sargassum?

Over the years, various studies—including those documented by David Mendoza in 2022—have shown that sargassum can be safely composted, with heavy metal levels remaining below the limits set for agricultural use. These studies demonstrate that during composting, metals integrate into the substrate without posing a risk to human or animal health.

Additionally, seaweed has been used since ancient times as animal feed, natural fertilizer, and even as a food ingredient for humans. Today, given the massive accumulation of sargassum, there's a renewed need to consider it a valuable agricultural and environmental resource.

According to Dr. Iris Nava Jiménez, Biotechnology Coordinator at the Polytechnic University of Quintana Roo, in a 2019 interview with El Universal, “Sargassum is a plant growth activator, a strong germination stimulant, and a corrector of soil acidity and mineral deficiencies. It acts as a defense activator, enhances nutrient absorption, activates microfauna, and functions as a hydrating agent” (Greenpeace.org, 2019).

In a 2023 publication, José Guizar highlights the agricultural applications of sargassum, citing studies that support its use as a source for producing biostimulants, soil regenerators, and biofertilizers. With proper management—such as treating leachates and using biofertilizers to control gases and odors—composting sargassum for soil regeneration is feasible and promising.

Sargassum Composting Trial in Akumal Norte

In July 2025, a practical composting trial using sargassum was carried out at Villa Ek Balam in Akumal Norte. The procedure was as follows:

  • Fresh, sand-free sargassum was used
  • A natural bio-accelerator was prepared to prevent foul odors
  • The compost mix included:
    • 1 part sargassum
    • 1 part dry leaves
    • ¼ part soil rich in microorganisms
  • The pile was covered and left to rest for two weeks, reaching temperatures up to 80°C
  • It was then turned and allowed to mature for two more weeks

The result was a dark-colored compost with no unpleasant smell and populated by beneficial organisms like pill bugs, centipedes, and black soldier fly larvae.

The final product was nutrient-rich soil, ready to be used in the garden.

More Work Still Needed

While the results are promising, the resulting compost still requires complementary studies to evaluate:

  • Substrate maturity
  • Nutrient content
  • pH and electrical conductivity levels
  • Absence of pathogens and contaminants

Only then can we ensure its safe use at the domestic, commercial, or even agricultural level on a larger scale.

Why is it important to promote sargassum composting?

Because disposal is costly, and the irresponsible dumping of sargassum in the jungle—currently done by some collection companies—is harming our terrestrial ecosystems.

Additionally, implementing sargassum composting programs in our communities:

  • Reduces environmental impact
  • Promotes a circular economy
  • Produces useful materials like compost and mulch
  • Educates the public about sustainable solutions

What do we need?

Political will and community support. For these initiatives to become real, sustainable solutions, it is essential that municipal, state, and federal authorities provide:

  • Clear, expedited permits
  • Appropriate locations for testing and production
  • Support to interested communities

Meanwhile, we as neighbors can continue to take local action.

Conclusion

Sargassum has been seen as a threat, but with scientific understanding, environmental responsibility, and community involvement, it can become a powerful tool to regenerate our soils and protect our surroundings.

We cannot claim that the final substrate from composted sargassum is free of heavy metals or arsenic, or that levels are within those permitted for organic agriculture, without performing the necessary studies. But we will continue working hand in hand with the authorities of Quintana Roo and academic institutions to promote an emerging economy based on the mass arrival of sargassum to our coasts.

"Composting it is possible”

Would you like to know more?
Do you want to be part of a pilot community composting program?
Feel free to reach out.


Recommendations for Proper Sargassum Management

As a coastal community, it is vital that we adopt responsible practices when handling sargassum to protect both our health and our environment. Here are some practical recommendations for residents, workers, and property owners:

1. Protect the Health of Workers

  • Instruct all employees or volunteers removing sargassum to wear masks, gloves, and protective clothing to minimize exposure to airborne particles, gases, and potential contaminants.
  • Workers should shower and change clothing after handling sargassum to prevent prolonged skin exposure or inhalation of particles.

2. Remove Sargassum Early

  • Do not let sargassum rot or sit for days on the beach. As it decomposes, it releases gases like hydrogen sulfide that are unpleasant and potentially harmful.
  • Collect sargassum as early as possible, ideally within 24–48 hours of arrival, to reduce odor, leachate, and health risks.

3. Do Not Dump Sargassum in the Jungle or Mangroves

  • Never dispose of sargassum in forested areas or near mangroves. These sensitive ecosystems are easily damaged by the leachates, acidity, and contaminants that can seep into the soil and aquifers.
  • Avoid contributing to the formation of illegal dumps, which can have long-term environmental and legal consequences.

4. Store Temporarily and Responsibly

  • If composting or disposal cannot happen immediately, store sargassum on impermeable surfaces (like tarps or bins) away from water sources to avoid soil and groundwater contamination.

5. Participate in Community Solutions

  • Support local pilot composting programs and stay informed about safe methods of reuse.
  • If you are interested in starting a composting effort on your property, reach out to environmental committees for guidelines and technical assistance.


  • Sources Consulted


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