WILLEMSTAD – The Caribbean Research and Management of Biodiversity Foundation (Carmabi) celebrated its 70th anniversary on May 29. During a festive evening on the organization’s premises, employees, researchers, volunteers, and national and international partners came together to reflect on an impressive journey: from a humble marine laboratory to a regionally recognized center for nature research, education, and conservation.
The event served as a moment to look back on Carmabi’s meaningful role since 1955 in protecting and understanding nature on Curaçao and throughout the Caribbean.
From Research Outpost to Influential Voice
Carmabi was founded in 1955 as a small research institute focused on marine biology. Today, it has grown into one of the most important centers for tropical nature research in the Caribbean. From its headquarters in Piscadera, Carmabi produces scientific publications, runs educational programs, manages national parks, and advises governments and private stakeholders on sustainable environmental policies.
In recent years, Carmabi researchers have published more than 40 peer-reviewed articles annually, often in collaboration with universities around the world. The institute has made key contributions to global understanding of coral reef ecology and studied the impact of human activity on local ecosystems such as mangroves, forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs.
According to director Manfred van Veghel, Carmabi has become a vital bridge between science and society over the past 70 years. “Our knowledge doesn’t just live in academic journals – it comes alive in classrooms, in policy advice, in the fieldwork of our rangers, and in the stories we share with the public.”
Education as a Core Mission
In addition to research, Carmabi has long prioritized education. Each year, thousands of students participate in programs about coral reefs, mangroves, sea turtles, and sustainability. The organization has developed multilingual lesson materials, trained teachers, and launched interactive tours and apps for park visitors, including at the Marine Education Center and the recently revamped Mangrove Park.
Van Veghel emphasized in his speech that conservation must be local, inclusive, and resilient. That’s why Carmabi continues to invest in youth engagement, knowledge-sharing, and making nature visible and accessible. “Because what you come to know, you come to value – and protect.”
Conservation in Practice
Since merging with STINAPA in 1996, Carmabi has managed several of Curaçao’s national parks, including Christoffelpark, Shete Boka, Seru Largu, the Hato Caves, Curaçao Marine Park, and the new Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park. By combining field research with practical conservation, ecotourism, and community involvement, Carmabi offers a model for nature management in small island states. The organization also contributes research and guidance on pressing environmental issues such as sargassum influx, erosion, and climate change.
Odette Doest, chair of Carmabi’s Supervisory Board, emphasized the importance of ecological awareness and education. She expressed her gratitude to the team that works daily to protect Curaçao’s unique natural environment. “Carmabi plays a vital role in strengthening the bond between people and nature. That connection is key to achieving sustainable change,” said Doest.
A Vision for the Future: Connect and Empower
Looking ahead, Van Veghel outlined Carmabi’s ambition to become a regional hub where curiosity, innovation, and impact converge. The organization plans to expand its laboratories, deepen partnerships both locally and internationally, and continue to inspire young people to pursue futures in science and conservation.
The presence of Acting Governor Michèle Russel-Capriles and other dignitaries at the celebration underscored the foundation’s value to Curaçaoan society. The governor praised Carmabi’s contributions to sustainable development and environmental awareness.
A Living Archive of Nature and Knowledge
Carmabi looks back with pride on seven decades of dedication from thousands of individuals who helped safeguard Curaçao’s natural heritage. From the first coral reef studies in the 1950s to the launch of modern educational apps, the organization has evolved with the times while staying true to its mission: understanding nature to protect it.
“The true value of Carmabi isn’t just in our data or our buildings,” Van Veghel concluded, “but in the people who show up every day – with passion, curiosity, and love for this island. That is the foundation for the next 70 years.”
