The residents of Baja California's East Cape are fighting against rampant development that threatens their traditional lifestyle and vital water sources.
Krista Langlois reports for Hakai.
In short:
- Cabo Pulmo, a small village on Baja California's East Cape, transformed from a fishing community to a model for marine conservation.
- Nearby developments like Costa Palmas are leading to water shortages and environmental damage, endangering the delicate ecosystem.
- Rapid population growth and luxury projects are driving local residents out and threatening the area's biodiversity and unique character.
Key quote:
“You know, I thought it would be different. I thought somehow we were untouchable. But all these people with money have their eyes on us … They want to protect this place. They want to protect it from us.”
— Angeles Castro, restaurateur, Cabo Pulmo
Why this matters:
Unchecked development in Baja California threatens not only the local way of life but also the critical environmental protections that sustain the region’s biodiversity. Read more: Liliana Sierra Castillo on blue justice.
