WILLEMSTAD - Close to one hundred volunteers traveled to Klein Curaçao on Saturday morning to take part in a large-scale cleanup of the uninhabited island. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the annual cleanup organized by Curaçao Clean Up, one of the island’s most persistent environmental initiatives.
Volunteers departed aboard the Mermaid, working in coordinated teams to clear accumulated debris from the shoreline and surrounding areas. The operation was made possible through a joint effort with various tour operators affiliated with Klein Curaçao Conservation, and supported by Selikor, White Tip – Curaçao Industrial Divers, and M&B Maintenance and Repair.
Tons of Marine Debris Removed
The teams collected large amounts of washed-up plastic waste, along with:
fragments of a broken vessel,
several meters of heavy ropes,
and two abandoned refrigerators.
Cleanup crews also addressed safety concerns around the island’s iconic lighthouse, where damaged wooden planks on the walkway were replaced to prevent accidents.
A Decade of Preservation Efforts
The yearly cleanup has become crucial for preventing Klein Curaçao from being overwhelmed by marine pollution. Continuous weekly cleanups led by volunteers from Sea Turtle Conservation Curaçao help maintain the island in between the major annual operations.
Despite its pristine appearance, Klein Curaçao remains vulnerable to the massive flow of oceanborne waste that washes up on its shores. Environmental groups say these collective efforts are essential to protect wildlife, maintain the island’s natural beauty, and reduce the long-term ecological impact.
Curaçao Clean Up says it will continue working with partners and volunteers to keep the island as clean and safe as possible for both nature and visitors.