Mick Jagger's holiday home on the Caribbean island of Mustique is currently being blighted by large quantities of washed-up seaweed, a problem that has significantly impacted his ability to enjoy his retreat. The situation is so severe that it has spoiled his recent stays and prompted the hiring of staff to clear the accumulating, foul-smelling algae each morning.
This pervasive sargassum bloom, a type of ocean algae, has become a recurring issue, coating the beaches overnight and trapping debris such as bottles, flip-flops, and diapers. According to a source, the decomposing seaweed creates a strong odor and attracts clouds of midges, necessitating daily efforts to bury it. The algae is also present in the sea, making swimming unpleasant.
Jagger, who purchased his Mustique property, Stargroves, in 1983, has traditionally used it as a family retreat. The problem is expected to be at its worst during the summer months, leaving the singer hoping for a reprieve when he arrives for his festive break. This environmental issue is not unique to Mustique; it has also plagued coastlines in Mexico and other parts of the Caribbean, and is a subject highlighted in David Attenborough's "Blue Planet III" documentary.
The Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt, which stretches from West Africa to the Caribbean, is a massive bloom that first emerged in 2010. It is believed to be fueled by agricultural runoff and deforestation, and is estimated to weigh around 33 million tons. The phenomenon is a recurring environmental challenge for coastal regions across the Atlantic.
Mustique has long been a favored destination for the wealthy and famous since its acquisition by Colin Glenconner in 1958. Princess Margaret was gifted land by Glenconner in 1959, where she built her villa, Les Jolies Eaux. The island's allure attracted figures like David Bowie, and it remains a sought-after locale for luxury tourism.