Project
Turning the Tide
Maintaining economic resilience on Aruba through hands-on restoration and conservation of its marine biodiversity.
The marine environment of Aruba is key to environmental resilience and the tourism economy but the marine park authority needs help to turn the tide of environmental degradation and biodiversity loss.
Cumulative environmental deterioration puts pressure on the economic development of small island developing states (SIDS) and undermines environmental and economic resilience. A 2018 study for Aruba's value of nature concluded that a degraded marine environment will not only suppress its small but valuable local fishery sector but also reduce tourist numbers and ultimately overall welfare by 50%.
About the project
This project marks the starting point for the rehabilitation of Aruba’s interconnected coral reefs and mangroves. Through dedicated monitoring, it will generate vital data to inform evidence-based policies and management strategies, contributing to a resilient marine ecosystem that benefits everyone.
The long-standing partnership between Aruba and the Netherlands in nature conservation will continue beyond the project’s completion to ensure lasting impact.
The project is featured in a 1.5-hour documentary film. You can view the trailer here, and a link to the full documentary will be made available on this webpage soon.
Key project partners include the Aruba Conservation Foundation (ACF), ScubbleBubbles Foundation, the University of Aruba and Wageningen University's Marine Animal Ecology group. Integration of project outcomes into the management of Parke Marino Aruba (Marine Park Aruba) will support continuity and long-term success.
