WILLEMSTAD – A wave of public outrage has emerged following the apparent clearing of part of a protected nature area near Ascencion on Banda Abou, with environmental concerns mounting over possible violations of conservation regulations.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the affected area falls within an EOP conservation zone, meaning it is protected under the Island Development Plan and cannot be altered without proper authorization.
Eyewitnesses who visited the site over the weekend described the situation as alarming. “It is very sad to see this happening,” one observer said, referring to what appeared to be large-scale clearing or destruction of natural vegetation.
Environmental organization Carmabi (Caribbean Research and Management of Biodiversity) confirmed that the area is considered ecologically sensitive. The site is also located near a Ramsar-designated wetland, which carries additional international environmental significance and protection.
It remains unclear who is responsible for the activity. Carmabi has referred inquiries to the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN) and to Stichting Uniek Curaçao, which is involved in the management of the area.
The ministry has yet to provide a detailed response. However, Secretary-General Sharlon Melfor indicated that the situation will be inspected on-site. Stichting Uniek Curaçao could not be reached for comment at the time.
Experts note that activities in such protected areas typically require an environmental or construction permit, raising questions about whether the necessary approvals were obtained.
The incident has reignited concerns about enforcement of environmental protections in Curaçao, particularly in areas designated for conservation under local and international frameworks.