WUR explores permanent presence in Aruba

This intention builds on the existing collaboration with the University of Aruba, with which WUR previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding. Van Lammeren explains: “This letter of intent marks the next step in our collaboration with Aruba, where we are already actively involved in a wide range of research. This includes work on the restoration and protection of coral reefs and seagrass meadows and mangrove forests, as well as threatened species, the impacts of fisheries and socio-economic issues. Over the coming months, we will explore whether a permanent WUR presence in Aruba would be both feasible and valuable, and what further collaboration could look like.”

Prime Minister Mike Eman emphasized the importance of a permanent WUR presence in Aruba. “Not only for the island itself, but for the entire region. The knowledge and expertise of WUR are needed to address the major challenges we face, naturally in close cooperation with local partners.”

In his response, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten underlined the importance of the cooperation between Aruba and WUR. He particularly highlighted the role of Nature Based Solutions and the importance of continuity in the collaboration. 

The collaboration aligns with WUR’s broader strategy for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Caribbean. Through this strategy, WUR focuses on challenges related to biodiversity, climate adaptation, sustainable food systems, water management, and the balance between nature, the economy and the living environment. Central to this approach is the local context of island communities and close collaboration with residents, civil society organisations and public institutions in Aruba.

“The challenges facing islands such as Aruba are significant: climate change, biodiversity loss, pressure on ecosystems, and the vulnerability of local economies. Nature, water, food, the economy and governance are deeply interconnected. These complex challenges require an integrated approach that brings together many different disciplines. WUR has extensive experience in applying such approaches to complex societal challenges, combining both fundamental and applied knowledge,” Van Lammeren adds. 

Through its SIDS strategy, WUR aims to go beyond knowledge development alone. Together with local partners, WUR seeks to further strengthen knowledge sharing, education and support for nature management, while contributing to structural and applicable long-term innovations and solutions.

“The projects we have carried out would never have been possible without the intensive collaboration with local partners. This is a shared achievement and a strong foundation for our future work,” said René Henkens, researcher at WUR.

In the coming months, WUR will establish a small committee of researchers and professors from various disciplines. Later this year, WUR and the Government of Aruba will decide on a possible permanent presence on the island. “Only through long-term collaboration between local governments, knowledge institutions and communities can we work towards a resilient and nature-inclusive future,” Van Lammeren concluded.