First steps towards untangling the sargassum legal regime in Puerto Rico

A crucial factor limiting the implementation of effective mitigation actions for dealing with massive sargassum influxes is the lack of clarity of the sargassum legal framework. This article aims to clarify the sargassum legal framework in Puerto Rico focusing on sargassum removal from the beach and water, and the placement of sargassum contention barriers. A combination of a literature review, semi-structured interviews and a workshop were conducted to identify U.S. federal and Puerto Rico Commonwealth laws and regulations that apply. Furthermore, obstacles for implementing effective mitigation strategies were identified, and recommendations made to improve the permitting process. A flow chart of the permitting process was co-developed with agencies and academic representatives. Existing legal barriers were identified including lack of information and clarity in the permitting process and the extensive time required for permitting and for government policies to adjust to relevant groups’ needs. Recommendations provided by agencies and other social actors include the development of a territory-wide response plan and localized plans for priority areas, and the continuation of meetings with agencies to clarify legal aspects of sargassum mitigation actions including its disposal on land. This study contributes essential information for the improvement of the governmental, private, and civil responses to sargassum events in Puerto Rico and other U.S. jurisdictions.