Tourism, extractivism and privatization of the natural environment in Mazatlán, Sinaloa.

Abstract

Mazatlán, Sinaloa, in its pursuit of expanding sun-and-beach tourism, has promoted the occupation of naturally rich areas such as Isla de los Chivos through real estate development projects in the area. Based on the analysis of newspaper articles, photographic records, the National Directory of Economic Units, field observation, and interviews with local residents, this study examines the process of extractivism and the privatization of the natural environment on Isla de los Chivos, aimed at the exploitation of the coastline, which continues to consistently attract both domestic and international visitors. It is concluded that this development strategy has faced resistance from ejidatarios, local collectives, and civil associations, who have sought to halt both the advance of real estate development and decision-making processes carried out without the consent of the ejido community, while also warning about the potential negative impacts on the area’s biodiversity.