WILLEMSTAD – The Ministry of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning has announced that the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ) has requested permission to conduct marine scientific research into the impact of sargassum in Curaçao’s territorial waters and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). 

The research is scheduled to take place from April 14 to 23, 2025, and the request has been made in accordance with Article 30 of the National Ordinance on Maritime Management (P.B. 2007, no. 18). 

Sargassum—floating seaweed that can pile up in large quantities along the coast—has become a growing concern across the Caribbean, affecting marine ecosystems, tourism, and fishing industries. The upcoming study aims to provide new insights into its environmental and economic impact around Curaçao. 

The official request is available for public review until April 12 at the Maritime Authority of Curaçao, located at Seru Mahuma z/n. Those wishing to schedule an appointment may contact the director via jan.sierhuis@gobiernu.cw.