One of the most remarkable sights on Curaçao these days is not our beautiful coastline, our colorful neighborhoods, or even the excitement surrounding the Blue Wave. It is the amount of garbage that can be seen blowing across the island, carried by the wind from one neighborhood to another.
The question is simple: why do we continue to tolerate a problem that could be addressed with relatively simple measures and without placing a major burden on the public treasury?
For years we have discussed litter, illegal dumping, and the appearance of our communities. Yet the problem persists. The reality is that keeping Curaçao clean does not always require large infrastructure projects or multimillion-guilder investments. Sometimes it requires practical solutions, consistent enforcement, and a willingness to reward good behavior.
Consider bus stops. Every day thousands of people wait for public transportation, yet many bus stops still lack basic garbage bins. Installing trash receptacles at every bus stop would immediately reduce litter in public spaces. It is a small investment with visible results.
Businesses can also play an important role. Snack bars, minimarkets, restaurants, and supermarkets that consistently keep the areas around their establishments clean should be recognized. A certification program accompanied by reduced waste collection fees would encourage responsible behavior while rewarding those who already contribute to cleaner communities.
At the same time, rules must be enforced. Businesses that repeatedly fail to maintain the areas surrounding their premises should face penalties. Cleanliness cannot be optional.
As the island prepares to celebrate Curaçao's historic participation in the FIFA World Cup, why not turn national pride into a practical initiative? Imagine every motorist receiving a reusable car trash bag as a Blue Wave gift. Thousands of small actions could collectively prevent tons of litter from ending up on our streets.
Schools should also be part of the solution. Government subsidies could be partially linked to maintaining clean school grounds. Schools that consistently demonstrate environmental responsibility could receive recognition or additional support. Children who grow up in clean environments are more likely to become adults who value cleanliness.
Neighborhoods deserve attention as well. Communities that organize cleanup campaigns and actively maintain public spaces should be rewarded. A friendly competition between districts could inspire civic pride and collective responsibility.
Another practical step would be to establish waste collection centers in every geographic zone of the island. These centers could accept yard waste alongside separate containers for glass and plastic recycling. Many residents want to dispose of waste responsibly but lack convenient locations to do so.
The island also needs dedicated facilities to recycle tree trunks, branches, and yard debris. Five strategically located centers could process this material into mulch, creating both environmental and economic benefits. Such a program could even generate employment opportunities for people receiving social assistance, transforming waste into a marketable product.
Finally, Curaçao should view waste not only as a problem but also as an opportunity. Young entrepreneurs should be encouraged to develop practical products made from recycled materials. A startup fund, combined with affordable workspace in an economic zone, could stimulate innovation while addressing environmental challenges at the same time.
The garbage blowing across Curaçao is not simply a wind problem. It is a management problem, an enforcement problem, and in some cases, a mindset problem.
The encouraging news is that many solutions are already within reach.
A cleaner Curaçao does not require miracles. It requires action.
Alvin M. Daal