Evaluation of the Interest and Perception of Tourism Service Providers in Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico, Regarding the Alternative Use of Biofuels

Abstract

This study addresses the need to implement sustainable alternatives in marine vessels, particularly in vulnerable environments, highlighting the potential of biofuels as a viable option for the transition towards renewable energy. The objective of the research was to evaluate the interest and perception of tourism service providers in Los Cabos, B.C.S., Mexico, regarding the alternative use of biofuels in their vessels. A total of 56 random surveys were applied and validated, and the results were as follows: 92% consider fuel to be their largest operational cost, 84.6% acknowledge that their activities impact the environment, and 80% are aware of biodiesel biofuel. Notably, more than 94% expressed interest in learning how to produce biodiesel and in using it as an alternative in their operations, while 95% believe that the use of biofuels could be a positive differentiating feature for their businesses, contributing to an eco-friendlier service. This introductory assessment is crucial as it highlights the importance of understanding the willingness of key stakeholders before adopting new technologies. It concludes that there is strong interest in exploring and adopting sustainable alternatives, reinforcing the need for further research to provide viable solutions, promoting a circular economy and fostering sustainable tourism in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.

1. Introduction

Beaches are particularly vulnerable areas, where a fundamental connection between society and the natural environment is established [1]. This connection is evident in coastal zones due to the beauty of their ecosystems, the various services they provide, and the significant increase in their accessibility, making coasts attractive destinations for human populations worldwide [2]. Beaches are considered socio-ecological systems in which social, economic, physical, and ecological aspects intertwine, generating environmental services that meet human needs and contribute to their well-being [3,4,5]. To effectively understand and manage these systems, it is crucial to integrate disciplines such as ecology, economics, and sociology to achieve sustainable development [6,7,8].

This approach is particularly relevant in tourist destinations such as Baja California Sur (BCS), Mexico, where immigration and tourism development have driven rapid growth. The National Population Council [9] highlights that most migration flows have concentrated in the municipality of Los Cabos, particularly between two urban settlements: San José del Cabo (SJC) and Cabo San Lucas (CSL), connected by a 33 km long tourist corridor. These cities experienced accelerated growth following the implementation of public policies focused on tourism by the Mexican State, establishing themselves as intermediate cities with notable economic dynamism [10]. This growth is attributed to the Mexican government’s strategy of utilizing tourism to generate income, create jobs, and promote regional development [11], highlighting recreational destinations such as Los Cabos, Cancún, Huatulco, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, and Loreto in the first generation of Integrated Planned Centers [12].

Tourism growth presents challenges in social, ecological, and economic spheres, especially in maritime and coastal sectors, which already face issues such as climate change, pollution, and overpopulation. Moreover, the municipality of Los Cabos has a protected natural area (Cabo Pulmo), making it of greater interest. López-Santillán [13] points out that the communities linked to these areas are shifting towards tourism, promoted by the State through strategies such as the “National Strategy for the Development of Sustainable Tourism and Recreation in Mexico’s Protected Natural Areas” and the “Strategic Framework for Sustainable Tourism in Mexico’s Protected Natural Areas” [14,15]. Protected Natural Areas have the potential to attract a significant flow of global tourists interested in alternative tourism, which seeks interaction with nature [16].

Therefore, it is crucial to develop more environmentally friendly alternatives for highly relevant coastal tourist sites, particularly regarding marine-tourism vessels. While there are options to reduce pollution in land vehicles through various engine technologies, alternatives for marine engines using traditional fossil fuels have not been sufficiently addressed. The traditional fuels used in marine vessels represent a latent source of environmental pollution due to the predominant use of fossil fuels [17] (p. 34).

Most current research focuses on solar-powered vessels, evaluating aspects such as economic viability, design, and structural adaptation, as well as energy autonomy and storage [18,19,20,21,22]. However, the use of solar panels on vessels requires optimal sunlight conditions and is more viable in calm waters due to limitations in operational power.

Regarding the global context, in recent years, the use of biofuels in maritime tourism worldwide has gained interest as an eco-friendlier alternative to conventional fossil fuels [23]. The maritime tourism industry encompasses activities such as passenger transportation, excursions, and water sports, which are under increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact. Biofuels have emerged as a viable option. These fuels, produced from organic resources such as vegetable oils, algae, and agricultural residues, have the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy efficiency. However, the adoption of biofuels in the maritime tourism sector is still in its early stages and faces several challenges, such as high production costs, availability, and the lack of adequate infrastructure for their storage and industrial-scale distribution [24]. Europe has led the way in implementing biofuels in tourist vessels, driven by government initiatives aimed at reducing emissions from maritime transportation [25]. Additionally, global fuel regulations and environmental policies vary significantly across different regions, making broader implementation more difficult. Despite these barriers, some areas, particularly in Europe, have begun to use biofuels in tourist and commercial vessels, supported by government initiatives and efforts to reduce emissions [26]. According to the International Maritime Organization, global maritime transport remains a significant source of emissions, but the use of biofuels can help reduce them, provided that barriers such as costs and infrastructure are overcome [27].

Considering these aspects, it is necessary to advance research and development of viable and favorable alternatives for the marine tourism sector, particularly in terms of engines and the potential use of biofuels in vessels.

This research proposed a theoretical framework that integrates ecology, economics, and sociology to address sustainability in coastal areas. A holistic approach that aligns with theories of socio-ecological systems and the importance of ecosystem services for human well-being, contributing to the field of renewable energies applied to maritime transport, suggesting that biofuels could be a potentially viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. It provides empirical data on the perception of stakeholders involved in tourism, addressing the theory of participatory sustainability and collective action, directly contributing to sustainable development goals 7, 13, 14, and 8; seeking to increase the proportion of renewable energy in the global energy mix, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from tourist vessels, preserving marine ecosystems, and reducing pollution in protected coastal areas such as “Cabo Pulmo”, promoting sustainable tourism and creating new job opportunities in sectors related to clean energy innovation.

Therefore, the objective of this research was to evaluate the interest and perception of tourism service providers in the municipality of Los Cabos, B.C.S., Mexico, regarding the alternative use of a biofuel in their vessels. The hypothesis is that maritime tourism service providers believe that the alternative use of biofuels, such as biodiesel, in their vessels can reduce operational costs, improve the environmental sustainability of their activities, and serve as a positive feature that would attract more customers interested in sustainable practices, as long as they receive proper training for its production and use.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Description and Context of the Study Site

The research was conducted in the municipality of Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico (Figure 1). This municipality is located on the Baja California Peninsula, at the southern tip of the state, and covers an area of 3451.51 km². The municipality consists of two main towns (cities): San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, internationally known for their tourist appeal and extensive coastline along the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. This destination is notable for its marine biodiversity, with ecologically important areas such as Cabo Pulmo National Park, located near San José. Cabo Pulmo is renowned for its coral reefs and is home to various protected marine species. The region’s economy is heavily linked to tourism, fishing, and recreational aquatic activities. Additionally, there are three small towns that form part of this municipality: Miraflores, La Ribera, and Buena Vista, which are developing communities with great potential for ecotourism.

2.2. Description of the Instrument

The design of this study was descriptive in this initial phase; physical surveys were administered, consisting of a total of 21 questions with both closed and open-ended responses. Most of the answers to the questions were primarily qualitative variables due to the nature of this evaluation (to describe the perception of tourism service providers regarding the alternative use of biofuels within the study population). Some questions also provided answers with quantitative variables; however, that information was not incorporated into this research. The main dimensions or thematic areas evaluated were the perception of biofuel use, sustainability, and environmental benefits. The key variables were the level of knowledge about biofuels (biodiesel), attitude towards the alternative use of biofuels in their vessels, and perceived long-term benefits. The measurement scales for these variables were primarily nominal. For this reason, due to the nature of the response variables and the initial purpose of this evaluation, no statistical tests were conducted. In subsequent evaluation phases, comparisons and predictive models will be considered.

2.3. Study Population

The target population for this research consisted of maritime tourism service providers (representatives of registered marine vessels) in the municipality of Los Cabos, B.C.S., Mexico.

2.4. Sample Selection

The database of the Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) was consulted in 2021 to identify the population of tourism service providers (PST) in the municipality of Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico. A total of 66 registered marine vessels providing these services were identified. The 66 units were quantified based on the type of tourism service provided, and all tourism services in the database that did not correspond to the target population of this study, as well as the type of service offered, were excluded.

Based on the database from the Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR), in 2021, the population of tourism service providers (TSPs) in the municipality of Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico, was sought. Only TSPs offering sightseeing/snorkeling tours were included, resulting in a total of 66 units (marine vessels) registered to provide these services.

The sample size (n) was estimated with a 95% confidence level (α = 0.05) using the following Formula (1) on line number 181 for finite populations:

$$\mathrm{n}={\displaystyle \frac{\left(\mathrm{N}\ast {\mathrm{Z}\mathsf{\alpha }}^2\ast p\ast q\right)}{{\mathrm{e}}^2\ast \left(\mathrm{N}-1\right)+{\mathrm{Z}\mathsf{\alpha }}^2\ast p\ast q}}$$

(1)

where

• n = sample size (number of TSPs to be surveyed, representing the unit);
• N = population size (total number of registered vessels);
• p = probability of the event occurring (success) = 0.5;
• Zα = value based on the confidence level used (95% = 1.96);
• e = maximum allowable error (5% = 0.05);
• q = probability of the event not occurring (failure) = 1 − p.

The sample size (n) was 56, meaning that 56 surveys were administered to tourism service providers (PST) representing the registered economic units (vessels). The selection of registered units was conducted randomly from the total number of vessels (66). A random sampling method was applied to select these units. The database included a business name and a company or service registration number listed in the National Tourism Registry, which facilitated the search.

2.5. Inclusion Criteria

Only maritime tourism service providers officially registered with the Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) and operating in the municipality of Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico, were included. This study was limited to service providers that exclusively offer whale-watching/sightseeing tours and snorkeling trips by boat. Active economic units (vessels in operation) during the data collection period, from September to December 2021, were included. The service providers voluntarily agreed to participate in this study after being informed of the purpose and confidentiality of data handling.

2.6. Data Collection Instruments

The surveys were conducted in person, face-to-face, using printed paper forms, and an ethical code for the use of the resulting information was implemented. Each tourism service provider was informed about the purpose of the survey. The survey included questions designed to gather general information about the study population as well as specific information related to the research topic. The survey administration process began in mid-September and was completed at the end of December 2021. A total of five people were trained to administer the surveys, with the ability to provide additional information about the questions and clarify any doubts during the process. The survey was validated using the test–retest methodology [28]. Pilot tests were conducted to validate the instrument before it was applied to the total sample, primarily reducing the number of questions to focus on this study and minimize response times.

2.7. Software Used

For the processing and representation of all descriptive information, the statistical software GraphPad Prism 8.0.1 was used.

3. Results and Discussion

This section presents the empirical results obtained from the surveys conducted with tourist service providers in the municipality of Los Cabos, B.C.S., Mexico, regarding their interest and perception of the alternative use of biofuel in their vessels. Due to the nature of the evaluation, the results are descriptive, allowing us to understand the behavior of the data collected from the target population and topic. For this reason, the evaluated variables are qualitative in nature, using a nominal scale.

3.1. Costs and Operational Challenges

The population of maritime tourism service providers in the municipality of Los Cabos, which includes tour/snorkeling services, indicated that their primary expense in their economic activity is fuel (92.3%), necessary for the operation and mobility of their vessels. The other category (variable) identified by the population as their main expense was “boat and engine maintenance”, accounting for 7.7% (Figure 2). Operating costs for marine vessels are among the highest due to rising fuel prices.

The average gasoline price in Mexico has seen significant increases in recent years, influenced by both price liberalization policies and changes in international oil prices [29]. In Baja California Sur, in particular, gasoline prices tend to be higher than the national average due to transportation and distribution costs stemming from the region’s geography. This results in an even greater economic impact on the state’s residents. The price of gasoline in the state has reached record levels, exceeding 25 pesos per liter in some localities in 2024 [30]. This has raised concerns among the region’s inhabitants, especially considering that the minimum wage for 8 h of work is 248.93 pesos (12.84 USD at the current exchange rate). Consequently, this situation further impacts individuals who are forced to use these fuels as a primary resource for their main economic activity, as is the case for tourism service providers. These costs present another reason to consider adopting biofuels.

The estimated production cost of biodiesel in Mexico varies depending on the raw materials used. For biodiesel produced from used vegetable cooking oils, the estimated cost per liter ranges from 11.12 to 13.70 Mexican pesos (MXN/L). Authors Masera et al. [31] estimated a cost of 10.73 Mexican pesos, considering expenses such as oil procurement, electricity, gas, methanol, and maintenance. They emphasize that these costs remain competitive compared to traditional fossil-based diesel, especially when production efficiency is improved.

The above highlights the need for proper characterization in the maritime industry, particularly regarding fuel consumption in its fleets [32], focusing on areas with a significant number of marine vessels, whether for fishing or tourist activities. Such areas are gaining popularity, with growing populations and an increasing demand for tourist services, as seen in the municipality of Los Cabos. Los Cabos is the smallest municipality in the state of Baja California Sur, covering an area of 3750.9 square kilometers, which represents 4.68% of the total area of Baja California Sur [33], and has a total population of 328,247 inhabitants, with a population density of 87.5 inhabitants per square kilometer, significantly surpassing the state’s population density of 11 inhabitants per square kilometer [34]. The aforementioned factors indicate the need to investigate and develop environmentally favorable and socially viable proposals that can enhance the economic, social, and ecological dynamics of this study area.

These results indicate the need for economically and environmentally viable and favorable options, such as the use of the biofuel “biodiesel”, showing that the proposal and findings are aligned with the research objective and support the research hypothesis. For future evaluations, it would be important to understand the economic implications of all expenses involved in this activity. This assessment would provide a clearer notion of the overall economic impact of their current option and allow for comparison with another alternative that is more environmentally and economically favorable.

3.2. Environmental Impact and Perception of Alternatives

Based on the processing of the survey data, a significant percentage of tourism service providers (84.6%) believe that their economic activity impacts (pollutes) the environment in some way (Figure 3). This result may reflect a high level of environmental awareness among those involved in this economic activity, which could be associated with their participation in non-extractive practices, where there is a strong interest in preserving marine resources. This interest is likely due to an appreciation of the beauty of marine ecosystems, which could foster greater empathy for the preservation and care of marine resources. Additionally, the municipality is home to a protected natural area, “Cabo Pulmo”, which many visit, fully aware that all activities have an environmental impact on marine ecosystems, albeit to varying degrees and scales, where local communities have primarily contributed to the conservation, restoration of biodiversity, and sustainability, including adherence to the area’s environmental protection policies [35].

Palafox and Muñoz [16] indicate that commercial fishing had a positive effect at the beginning of tourism activities in Cabo Pulmo, as it attracted low-impact tourism associated with coastal aquatic activities. This, in turn, led to the formation of the first tourism service providers, who recognized that tourism offered greater economic benefits. After the experience with commercial fishing, it became evident that tourism required an environmental vision that contributed to the protection and preservation of nature, which had become the main attraction of the area. Environmental training, regularly provided on the care and use of marine resources, as well as participation in procedures or projects with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and researchers in these areas, could also be key factors.

The high awareness of the impact of their activities on the marine environment establishes a positive alignment with the established hypothesis. For future evaluations, it would be important to understand the effect of pollution and the estimated CO₂ generation from the fuels used in the motorization of the region’s tourist fleet, to provide greater support for the need to seek or adopt environmentally favorable alternatives.

Moreover, 80% of the population of tourism service providers indicated that they are familiar with or have heard of the biofuel “biodiesel”. The remaining percentage indicated that they do not know it or have never heard of it (Figure 4). This finding is interesting, given the impact of social media and other information and communication technologies (ICT), which play an important role in society, as many people have immediate access to information, allowing them to stay informed about current topics and issues across various sectors.

Among the descriptive information collected from the surveyed tourism service providers (TSP), 66.7% of the population uses smartphones, and the average age is 49 years. Furthermore, biodiesel is not a new concept; this biofuel (“methyl esters obtained from the chemical reaction known as transesterification”) was first used in engines in Europe during World War II due to the scarcity of petroleum-derived products at that time [36]. Although several studies have been conducted in Mexico on the use of waste vegetable oil and biodiesel, there are few places or municipalities where it is produced and marketed. Additionally, despite the many years that this biofuel has been known, there has not been enough research on its use in marine engines. It has been noted that only a few cruise ships, mainly in Europe, use biodiesel as their primary fuel option [37].

3.3. Interest in the Adoption of New Technologies

There is a strong interest among the population of tourism service providers (94%) in learning to produce biofuel (biodiesel) from used vegetable oil (Figure 5). Used vegetable oils (cooking oil) are the main raw material for biodiesel production [38,39]. Recycling these oils offers the most viable and economical alternative for producing this biofuel [40].

Fortunately, research on the potential use of waste to produce alternative energy has gained relevance today, as it is necessary to find other sources of renewable energy from an environmental perspective [41]. Based on this need, efforts to utilize these wastes are increasing, with the aim of reintegrating them into the economic and productive cycle through reuse [42].

As an international tourist destination, the municipality of Los Cabos has a significant number of establishments (626) dedicated to food preparation for human consumption, according to the National Statistical Directory of Economic Units [43]. Due to the geographical conditions of the municipality, it is virtually surrounded by the sea, making it more environmentally vulnerable, as a percentage of these residual oils from the restaurant industry ends up directly or indirectly in the ocean. For this reason, utilizing these wastes would promote a circular economy and reduce pollution. Furthermore, the subsequent biotechnological use of these wastes as “biofuel” would help reduce environmental emissions, as it is less polluting than traditional fossil diesel, coming from a renewable source, generating fewer corrosive gases and those that cause the greenhouse effect [44,45].

For the above reasons, this research proposes the alternative use of biodiesel as a potential alternative biofuel in vessels, as it also seeks to take advantage of waste generation from the food industry in these coastal areas, through biotechnological utilization (biodiesel generation), where this biofuel can be used in diesel outboard engines without the need for any modifications, simply by using mixtures of biodiesel and diesel.

While there are different bioenergy options in addition to biodiesel, such as biogas and biohydrogen, which could also serve as alternatives to implement, the adoption of these bioenergy alternatives includes some additional challenges. For example, in the use of biogas in outboard engines, storage and transportation would need to be considered, where additional technological modifications are necessary. Moreover, the consideration of supply is important, as biogas production may be limited or unavailable in all coastal areas, complicating its integration into maritime fleets. Regarding biohydrogen, it emerges as a promising option. However, it is in an early development phase, involving high production costs and infrastructure. The Yamaha brand has already launched its first prototype of an outboard motor that employs hydrogen [46], so in the future, there will be more options for propulsion and more opportunities to minimize the environmental impact on marine environments derived from the traditional fossil fuel used in marine propulsion. Thus, there are various bioenergy options that could be adopted, depending on the context and particular situation of each target population under study, where it is undoubtedly necessary to explore and investigate each of these.

Given the strong interest of the tourism service provider population in producing biodiesel from waste oils, which reflects a commitment to more sustainable practices, it would be feasible to provide tools and alternatives to this sector, such as specialized courses or workshops. This would be a natural step to facilitate access to biofuel production technologies. Technical training to ensure efficient and safe production would strengthen the capacities of tourism service providers in managing alternative energy resources. Local biodiesel production could reduce operational costs related to fossil fuels, benefiting both providers’ incomes and the environment. This initiative could even differentiate Los Cabos as a destination committed to sustainability.

The implementation of training programs by universities, private companies, or civil organizations could be a viable and flexible alternative. This initiative could serve as a replicable pilot model in other areas with similar characteristics or generate a new business model around the collection of raw materials (used vegetable oil), biofuel production, marketing, and distribution. Therefore, research on the above would be necessary to provide viable options for the sector.

This processing, development, and potential alternative use of biodiesel could become an economic diversification activity for this sector and even for the small-scale fishing sector, both in the municipality of Los Cabos and in other tourist destinations throughout Mexico.

Additionally, it is worth noting that, as a result of the chemical reaction in the biodiesel production process (transesterification), a byproduct is generated (biodiesel + glycerin). This glycerin could also be used to produce various value-added products [47], such as handmade soaps [48,49] and different cosmetic products. In recent years, the sustainability of such products has sparked growing interest in both the cosmetic industry and among consumers, due to recommendations to implement the Green Pact and the circular economy [50]. The production and sale of these value-added products could serve as a business model, as they could be sold in the region, where the sale of products and handicrafts is common in coastal areas, providing another viable alternative because of the underutilization of biotechnology in the production of biodiesel.

The above aligns with the assertion of the hypothesis and the research objective, directly contributing to the following Sustainable Development Goals: 12—responsible production and consumption, promoting the recycling and reuse of byproducts, fostering a circular economy; 9—industry, innovation, and infrastructure: where the transformation of waste into new products drives innovation in sustainable production; 8—decent work and economic growth: the creation of handmade products could generate local employment and economic development, especially in rural or local sectors; 6—clean water and sanitation, although not directly, the proper management of byproducts such as glycerin can prevent water pollution if handled appropriately; 13—climate action, by reducing dependence on new raw materials and utilizing waste, contributing to emission reductions and supporting more sustainable resource management.

Regarding the production of biodiesel, we consider that future evaluations are necessary concerning the raw material (used vegetable oils) for biodiesel production: evaluation of collection systems for the raw material (used vegetable oil) for biodiesel production, pilot production plants for biodiesel (modeling of variables involved in the transesterification process), quality of waste oils, and yield rates (η) in the conversion.

Ninety-five percent of the tourism service providers in the municipality of Los Cabos are interested in alternatively using the biofuel “biodiesel” in their vessels, provided they have the knowledge to produce their own biofuel (Figure 6). The implementation of biodiesel as a biofuel in their vessels would be linked to the replacement of outboard motors. This situation, combined with a lack of knowledge about biodiesel production, would be the main limitation to the alternative use of this biofuel in their vessels since biodiesel can only be used in diesel engines. In these engines, fossil diesel and biodiesel blends, such as the commercial blend “B20” (20% biodiesel and 80% diesel), have shown favorable results in terms of engine performance and environmental impact, particularly in reducing sulfur dioxide emissions [51]. One of the advantages is that no additional modifications to diesel engines would be needed to use this biofuel. Furthermore, these blends extend the lifespan of these engines due to the lubrication provided by biodiesel, thanks to its properties and characteristics.

Additionally, the implementation of biodiesel in diesel outboard motors could be one of the most viable alternatives from an environmental standpoint, particularly given the municipality’s conditions. This tourist destination is geographically located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, bordered to the north by the neighboring municipality of La Paz, to the south and east by the Gulf of California, and to the west by the vast Pacific Ocean. Throughout various times of the year, the region faces sudden unfavorable conditions for vessels, such as high waves, storms, and other weather-specific conditions in the area. Consequently, solar-powered vessels would not be the most viable option in this region during different periods of the year, mainly due to the lack of operational power in these ecological alternatives [52], which could limit their capacity to perform emergency maneuvers to quickly reach shore under adverse weather conditions.

Additionally, the implementation of biodiesel is favorable for the ecosystems involved, as accidents resulting from the use of traditional fossil fuels in marine vessels, such as fuel spills, often occur. This biofuel can also provide additional advantages that make it a good option in the marine environment. Llanes et al. [53] indicate that biodiesel is non-toxic if ingested by mammals or fish, establishing a lethal dose of 17.4 g/kg of body weight. In terms of aquatic toxicity, a concentration greater than 1000 mg/L would be necessary. On the other hand, there is no research on the specific effects that used vegetable oil might have on the marine environment; there could be negative effects on marine flora and fauna, especially in developed coastal areas. Mofijur [54] describes biodiesel as a renewable, non-toxic, and biodegradable substance that, during combustion, produces a reduced amount of greenhouse gas emissions, such as CO₂, NOx, SOx, and particulate matter. Therefore, it becomes an excellent option in coastal areas, as it is highly degradable in water, four-times faster compared to traditional fossil diesel. The mixture of biodiesel with diesel or gasoline increases the biodegradability of the fuel due to a synergistic effect of co-metabolism [55]. However, despite the multiple advantages of adopting this alternative biofuel, there are also disadvantages, such as the acquisition of diesel outboard motors. While gasoline outboard motors are very common in most areas, diesel outboard motors are not as prevalent in Mexico. Additionally, the cost of these diesel motors is higher than that of gasoline motors, meaning that the start of this transition involves an expenditure on the core of motorization. Furthermore, the initial infrastructure would need to be at a pilot level, with a low level of production, hoping for support from the government or non-governmental organizations that could help by establishing regulations favoring the development of infrastructure for the production and distribution of biodiesel. Moreover, the government could facilitate the creation of public policies that promote the use of alternative fuels in the tourism sector. Therefore, research on all aspects related to raw materials for biodiesel production will be key, particularly in collection systems and understanding and controlling the variables of the biodiesel production process, to provide solid elements at the beginning of the transition.

Based on these results and discussion, it is concluded that the hypothesis is feasible for acceptance. The study population shows a strong interest in adopting these types of alternatives to be implemented in their vessels, and the adoption of these alternatives directly contributes to Sustainable Development Goals number 7, 13, 14, and 8.

Most tourism service providers (95%) in the municipality of Los Cabos believe that the implementation of a biofuel such as biodiesel in their vessels would positively impact users and the tourism industry (Figure 7), which is interested in the services they offer, thus benefiting their economic activity. They consider it an excellent distinguishing feature to provide a tourism service that uses a biofuel that is less harmful to the environment. The municipality of Los Cabos is an international tourist destination that attracts people from various nationalities, mainly from developed countries, where there is a greater culture of environmental care, ecosystem preservation, and the use of environmentally friendly alternatives such as biofuels and other renewable energy sources. The state of Baja California Sur has abundant sites and tourist destinations known for their marine beauty, which is why tourism represents an important economic source. However, it is necessary to broaden the economic perspective and explore environmentally friendly strategies, providing a direct impact on Sustainable Development Goal 8, promoting more sustainable tourism, which would not only preserve natural resources but could also generate new job opportunities in sectors related to clean energy.

In the state and throughout Mexico, there is a lack of research on alternatives to fossil fuels used in marine vessels, as an environmental action to reduce pollution and mitigate climate change. In Mexico, the topic of adopting renewable energies is still relatively new in general, which makes this research very significant, as it seeks to understand the interest and perception of the target population regarding the alternative use of a biofuel in their vessels from a completely descriptive initial stage. This understanding will provide elements to continue researching and promoting alternatives; if there is no genuine initial interest, it becomes complex to embark on the path towards sustainability and towards less polluting options in the marine environment, starting from the core of the vessels, which is their motorization and the fuels they use. In Mexico, there is limited research on biofuel options in marine motorization, and these evaluations do not consider the interest and perception of the main actors involved—those individuals who would potentially use these alternatives. This evaluation lays the groundwork to focus efforts on populations with significant acceptance of such alternatives, with potential migration towards renewable energies in the marine sector. We believe that the adoption and migration towards renewable energies in Mexico will be slow, making it important to know where to direct future research efforts.

Based on the above, one of the populations with a significant number of vessels and motorization is the small boats dedicated to fishing activities in the state of Baja California Sur, which total 3691 units [56]. Various problems have affected this sector for several years, leading coastal fishermen to engage in additional economic activities beyond fishing (economic diversification). This underscores the need for more research efforts that include social, economic, and ecological aspects; the state of the fishing industry remains alarming, exacerbated by new challenges such as social conflicts, post-pandemic effects, and the impact of climate change [57]. This makes this population attractive for research.

Given this context, the potential use of waste generated in coastal areas with significant tourism and fishing activity could also be leveraged for biofuel production, as a favorable option for implementation in their vessels, along with the necessary changes in engines. This could also serve as another activity for economic diversification in this sector, as mentioned by some tourism service providers in the municipality during the survey that generated the results presented in this research. Fishing cooperatives could produce and market this biofuel during the closed season for high-value species or in adverse weather conditions that prevent them from conducting their activities at sea.

A balance between the economy and the environment is necessary, which requires research to promote the implementation, management, application, and viability of these alternatives in favor of the environment, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, it contributes to the blue economy, which describes sustainable and profitable economic growth using the sea and marine resources. “The core of the blue economy model consists of decoupling socioeconomic development from environmental degradation” [58]. The authors note that, in the state of Baja California Sur, two activities are directly linked to the principles of the blue economy: ecotourism and aquaculture. The latter also has a high potential for cultivating algal biomass and the subsequent production of biofuel. There is a significant interest in generating clean and renewable energy, primarily derived from offshore wind energy, wave energy, and even algae [59]. This encompasses important themes and issues for the blue economy, which, according to Bernhard Friess, Director of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries for the European Union, identifies ecotourism and renewable energies as key sectors for the growth of the blue economy [60]. Therefore, this research integrates highly relevant topics to support the generation of alternatives and strategies for the preservation of marine ecosystems and resources, as well as options that promote economic development considering environmentally friendly alternatives. This would have a positive environmental impact, preventing the degradation of ecosystems, where the generation and management of public policies in the sector, associated with the mentioned issues, could promote the necessary balance between socioeconomic systems interacting with coastal ecosystems. These ecosystems provide beautiful spaces, rich in marine flora and fauna, which are attractive to tourists from around the world and different states of Mexico.

Although this research focuses on evaluating the interest and perception of tourism service providers, it is evident that for these initiatives to have a broader and sustained impact, government support would be necessary. Government intervention could provide economic and fiscal incentives, as well as establish regulations that favor the development of infrastructure for the production and distribution of biodiesel. Additionally, the government could facilitate the creation of public policies that promote the use of alternative fuels in the tourism sector, which would increase the scope and viability of such initiatives. In this sense, their support would be essential to ensure a favorable environment that allows for the adoption of these sustainable alternatives in the community, thus making it necessary to seek this approach in subsequent research stages.

Regarding the survey method, one possible limitation could be access to prior information; some respondents may not have sufficient information about biodiesel or other alternative energies, which could affect their ability to provide informed responses. A lack of familiarity with the topic may bias their answers toward more neutral or less committed options. For instance, tourism service providers who are unaware of biofuels might respond negatively simply due to a lack of information, rather than having a formed opinion. This could create ignorance bias. However, in this assessment, surveyors were trained to provide additional explanations beyond simple questions. Nonetheless, we believe that workshops or talks could be proposed before asking specific questions about their use or production, so that respondents can answer with greater knowledge of the topic. Another possible bias to consider would be the impact of local or economic conditions, where limitations could arise from economic or environmental circumstances at the time of the survey (such as fluctuations in fuel prices or adverse weather events), which could have influenced the responses of the respondents, where potential biases might be opinions more influenced by short-term situational concerns, such as the immediate cost of fuel, rather than a more balanced consideration of long-term alternatives. Improvement could involve considering longitudinal or repeated surveys at different times to capture a completer and more balanced picture of perceptions over time. By considering these potential methodological adjustments in future research, the accuracy and validity of the conclusions drawn can be enhanced.

In summary, the interest and perception of tourism service providers in Los Cabos, B.C.S., Mexico, regarding the alternative use of biofuels in their vessels were evaluated. The results obtained indicate a high dependence on fossil fuels in maritime tourism activities, but they also reveal a clear opportunity to adopt and introduce more sustainable energy technologies, such as the use of biodiesel. The research directly contributes to Sustainable Development Goals 7, 8, 13, and 14. Therefore, further research on the topic is necessary to provide the essential elements for the viability and future implementation of these alternatives, highlighting the need for studies addressing raw materials for biodiesel production, collection systems, modeling of process variables, physicochemical evaluation of the raw materials, conversion yields, as well as economic aspects and integration of associations or governmental support. It is important to note that there is limited research in Mexico on biofuel options for marine propulsion, and these evaluations do not consider the interest and perception of the main stakeholders involved. This evaluation lays the foundation for focusing efforts on populations with significant acceptance of these types of alternatives, with potential migration toward renewable energies in the marine environment. We believe that the adoption and migration toward renewable energies in Mexico will be slow, making it important to know where to direct future research efforts.

4. Conclusions

The interest and perception of tourism service providers in the municipality of Los Cabos, B.C.S., Mexico, regarding the alternative use of a biofuel in their vessels were successfully evaluated. This assessment is important, as it is necessary to understand the opinions of the main stakeholders involved before considering more rigorous evaluations or wanting to provide different options to the affected populations. In Mexico, the adoption of renewable alternatives has been slow, and these options imply a drastic change that encompasses different sectors and areas, where, for most of the population, it is still something very new because there are no close references to compare or contrast these alternatives. Therefore, it is essential to focus research efforts on populations where there is greater interest and a positive perception of alternative options that reduce environmental impact.

The notable willingness of tourism service providers in the municipality of Los Cabos toward the implementation of biodiesel as an alternative to fossil fuels in their vessels stands out. The data reveal that fuel represents the main operational cost for this activity, and the expenditure on fuel, along with its associated environmental impact, underscores the need to explore more sustainable alternatives.

There is a significant interest, with 95% of the population wanting to learn how to produce biodiesel from used vegetable oil. This interest not only reflects a growing awareness of pollution but also an openness to innovative solutions that could transform the maritime tourism sector in Los Cabos. The introduction of biodiesel could not only reduce pollution and promote a circular economy but also offer a competitive advantage in the increasingly sustainability-oriented global tourism market. Biodiesel, being biodegradable and less polluting than conventional diesel, represents a promising alternative in the face of the environmental challenges that Los Cabos faces. The implementation of this biotechnology would not only contribute to the preservation of local marine ecosystems but would also provide economic benefits by reducing operational costs and expanding opportunities for economic diversification in the region.

However, for this transition to be effective, it is crucial to provide adequate training and foster collaboration among tourism service providers, local authorities, and non-governmental organizations. The development of public policies that support the adoption of biodiesel and the creation of support networks for the production and distribution of this biofuel are fundamental steps toward achieving true sustainability in the sector. The possible implementation of biodiesel in Los Cabos offers a clear path to reduce the ecological footprint of tourism and strengthen the region’s economic resilience. This research contributes the following practical implications: (1) implementation of renewable energies in marine tourism: opening the possibility of developing practical strategies for the adoption of biofuels in tourist vessels. This transition could significantly reduce environmental pollution in sensitive coastal areas like Cabo Pulmo. (2) Possible development of public policies: based on the results, local and federal governments could design more effective policies that promote the use of clean energy in coastal tourism, contributing to sustainable economic development. (3) Training and awareness: the information obtained could be used to train and educate tourism service providers about the importance of using and producing biofuels, as a potential to enhance the destination’s image as an ecologically responsible place. Among the possible limitations of this research, access to prior information could be one; some respondents may not have sufficient information on the topic or other alternatives to define their responses with more informed support. Therefore, a workshop or talk prior to the survey development process could provide greater accuracy and validity to the methodological process. We believe that future research would be necessary, such as estimating CO₂ emissions from the nautical tourism industry in the area (to provide additional support for the need to seek viable options that do not impact the environment), evaluations of the raw materials for biodiesel production (waste vegetable oils) and collection systems, modeling of the variables in the biodiesel production process (pilot plants), and evaluations of economic and social aspects regarding the costs of potential services on vessels operating with biofuels, including assessments of the acceptance of potential tourists who will access these ecological services. Finally, it is considered very necessary to evaluate the interest and perception of small-scale fishers regarding the alternative use of biofuels in their vessels. This is because there are a considerable number of registered vessels in the state of Baja California Sur for this economic activity, representing a significant challenge, as this sector faces multiple economic, social, and environmental issues, which would result in a potential area for investigation.

In this way, it is necessary to continue exploring environmentally favorable alternatives aligned with sustainable development goals to ensure a balance between economic growth and environmental protection in the dynamic context of this region.