WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s proposed ban on certain single-use plastics could create significant financial pressure for small businesses, snack bars, restaurants, minimarkets and importers if not carefully implemented, according to the Sociaal Economische Raad (SER).
In its advisory report on the MAN-PIN proposal to reduce disposable plastic use, the SER warned that many businesses remain heavily dependent on inexpensive plastic packaging and may struggle with the higher costs of alternative products.
The council stressed that simply banning plastic products will not be enough and called on the government to combine restrictions with economic incentives and broader sustainability policies.
According to the SER, Curaçao should move toward reusable systems and a circular economy instead of merely replacing plastic with other disposable materials.
The council proposed introducing fiscal measures such as lower taxes on sustainable products and higher levies on disposable plastics to encourage businesses and consumers to adopt reusable alternatives.
The SER also linked the plastic pollution issue directly to Curaçao’s tourism sector, warning that growing pollution threatens beaches, marine life and the island’s international image as a tourist destination.
The council noted that plastic waste is also increasing pressure on Curaçao’s waste management system and could have long-term environmental and economic consequences if left unaddressed.
According to the advisory body, achieving meaningful environmental progress will require not only legislation, but also structural policy changes, public awareness and cooperation between government, businesses and consumers.