Eco-news
Eco-news
Environmental Awareness by Susan Campbell Courtesy of the Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association (AHATA) and the AHATA Environmental Committee
This lovely little paradise in the middle of the sea welcomes over a million visitors annually with open arms. But this mass influx of people can take a toll on the fragile ecosystem, which is why we all need to work together to protect it for future generations to enjoy.
The health of the planet is under siege from all fronts these days, but beach communities face special challenges, especially small islands like Aruba. Thankfully, many of Aruba’s visitors are repeat visitors and view our little island as their home away from home. They return year after year and passionately pitch in to protect the environment along with local organizations. They join beach cleanups and even underwater reef cleanups in large numbers. They also scan the beaches to help protect sea turtle nests, pick up litter where they see it, and enthusiastically embrace hotel and resort energy-saving policies like reusing towels and not having the sheets changed daily to conserve electricity and water. And their efforts are much appreciated. But though cleanups and energy conservation are essential, the best way to protect the environment is through prevention.
A great first step was the government’s island-wide, single-use plastic bag ban law that went into effect as of last January 1, 2017, so make sure you have your own reusable bag when shopping. But there is still a big problem with plastic cups and plastic straws. One of the best ways you can reduce the use of plastic on the island is to purchase a hard plastic cup with an attached straw. They come in all kinds of attractive designs and make great souvenirs. Plus, Aruba’s tap water is among the best in the world, so you can also use them instead of purchasing plastic
bottled water. Styrofoam is another big problem, so avoid it when you can – ask for cardboard or reusable containers for takeout. Love the land and respect the sea
Though it might seem harmless to rearrange things like rocks and seashells to create your own art to photograph, Mother Nature has a master plan for everything. Seashells are often home to hermit crabs, rocks and stones help keep the beach from erosion, and each natural element you find on the land and on the beach has some form of purpose in the true scheme of things. So please enjoy things as they are. Also, don’t drive on off-road terrain in eco-rich areas, on the dunes, or on the beaches as your tires could be crushing sea turtle eggs or running over burrowing birds. Heed the new signs posted that help you understand what
is and what is not allowed in specific areas – they are very clear. The sea, as well, should be respected. Please never touch any marine life, or remove things like starfish from the water. But one thing that does need man-made removal from the reefs is lionfish! Support the local restaurants that serve lionfish because though very beautiful, this species does not belong in the Caribbean. They have no natural predators, and they are devouring all the other local fish species. So we best devour them first! Please join us
Aruba is about to become the most environmentally aware island in the Caribbean and a vanguard of sustainable tourism. But we need your assistance. Won’t you join us in our efforts? Every little bit helps! And for the love of the land and the song of the sea... we thank you. !
What you can do to lend a hand
The challenge of properly disposing single-use plastic products is one of the biggest issues around the world. On Aruba, more often than not, even when properly disposed of in garbage bins along the beaches, the strong, constant trade winds can lift and scatter the trash into the sea. 106 Nights
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