Uvero Alto, Dominican Republic – The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has suspended beach cleanup activities carried out by the Grand Sirenis Punta Cana resort, owned by the Matute Hotel Group, for violating national environmental regulations. The resort was found to be handling sargassum removal improperly and using heavy machinery within protected coastal areas without the required permits.
According to the ministry, the interventions were conducted without an active environmental authorization, in direct violation of Law 64-00 on Environment and Natural Resources. The unauthorized use of equipment and improper procedures in a sensitive coastal zone prompted an immediate halt to operations.
In response to these infractions, the ministry has begun legal proceedings against those responsible. Officials stated that sanctions will be pursued in accordance with the severity of the environmental damage.
The investigation was triggered by a formal complaint submitted through official channels. A follow-up inspection, conducted by the ministry’s Directorate of Oversight in coordination with the National Environmental Protection Service (SENPA), uncovered significant environmental harm.
Inspectors reported the complete removal of the soil’s phreatic layer in several areas, disrupting the coastal hydrogeological balance. The operation also lacked oversight by a certified environmental manager, a requirement for any project involving sargassum management.
Additionally, authorities confirmed that the work directly impacted nesting zones of the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), a species protected under both national and international law.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to enforcing environmental laws and preserving biodiversity in vulnerable coastal ecosystems, warning that unauthorized actions—regardless of intent—will carry consequences.
