WILLEMSTAD – Cleanup efforts are now underway at Boka Ascension, where large amounts of sargassum seaweed have accumulated along the coast of Curaçao. The initiative, which began last weekend, was ordered by the Minister of General Affairs in charge of Agriculture, Environment, and Nature, Mr. Gilmar Pisas. 

The seasonal arrival of massive sargassum blooms has once again impacted various parts of the island. When the seaweed begins to decompose, it produces a strong, unpleasant odor that has caused serious discomfort for residents living nearby—especially in the Boka Ascension area. 

In addition to the smell, the situation poses a serious risk to sea turtles. If they swim into a bay completely blocked by sargassum, they may be unable to surface for air and can drown. 

To address the issue, contractors have deployed heavy machinery to remove the sargassum from the water and place it along the shore to dry. Once dried, the seaweed no longer emits a foul odor and becomes easier to transport to the landfill. 

The cleanup operation is expected to last about one month. Authorities hope this action will relieve local residents and protect marine wildlife, particularly the endangered sea turtles that frequent the area.