WILLEMSTAD – Most residents of Curaçao are already experiencing the effects of climate change in their daily lives, especially through extreme heat, higher water and electricity costs, and infrastructure problems. At the same time, public support for climate adaptation is strong. This is evident from a large national survey among 555 residents, conducted in October and November 2025 as part of the development of the National Adaptation Strategy Curaçao (NAS-Ç).
The research shows that residents have clear and practical priorities for how Curaçao should prepare for climate change. At the top of the list are planting more trees and creating green spaces (41%), restoring and keeping natural drainage channels – the rooien – clean (37%), and improving infrastructure to prevent flooding while also making better local use of rainwater (35%). Notably, large-scale hard coastal protection, such as sea walls, receives much less support (11%).
High costs and extreme heat felt most strongly
Almost half of respondents indicate that in the past five years they have experienced higher costs for energy, water, fuel, and food due to weather and climate conditions. More than half (55%) say they have been strongly affected by very hot days and heatwaves. Looking ahead to the next ten years, many residents expect that especially higher water and energy bills, as well as extremely hot and dry weather, will significantly affect their lives.
Climate adaptation is seen by 76% of respondents as important or even a top priority. At the same time, only 14% fully agree with the statement that the government can be trusted to act in the best interest of Curaçao. This indicates a clear expectation of leadership, combined with a need for transparency and citizen involvement.
Nature and affordability central to solutions
Across all themes in the research, residents frequently choose nature-based solutions. More greenery in neighborhoods, protection of coral reefs and mangroves, and restoration of natural waterways receive strong support. Affordability also plays an important role. The most selected measure within the theme of economy and finance is creating affordable loans for low-income households to invest in climate measures such as cooler homes, lower energy bills, and protection against storm damage (45%).
Many residents indicate they are willing to take action themselves, such as saving water and energy (54%), preparing an emergency kit (67%), and buying more locally produced food (51%). Lack of information (35%), costs (29%), and the perception that the government is responsible (39%) are mentioned as the main barriers to taking action.
“Start by putting the basics in order”
When asked for recommendations, residents repeatedly emphasize that climate adaptation begins with getting the basics right: maintenance of roads, sewage and drainage systems, preventing construction in natural waterways, and keeping neighborhoods clean. Many respondents directly link climate adaptation to livability, cleanliness, nature, education, and the cost of living.
The results of this survey are being directly used in the further development of the National Adaptation Strategy Curaçao. The research was conducted by Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in collaboration with the University of Curaçao, research bureau RE-Quest and Stichting Climate Adaptation Services (CAS), as part of the project Supporting Curaçao in developing a National Adaptation Strategy of the International Panel on Deltas and Coastal Areas (IPDC).
The full report is publicly available at: https://ipdc-climate-action.org/projects/supporting-curacao-in-developing-a-national-adaptation-strategy/