WILLEMSTAD - A recently published report by Green Phenix highlights significant gaps in Curaçao's legislation and policies regarding the management of plastic pollution. The study, funded by the European Union, reveals that Curaçao urgently needs an enhanced legislative and policy framework to effectively combat the growing plastic pollution crisis.
The analysis indicates that, despite a proposed regulation to ban single-use plastic bags and styrofoam food containers, Curaçao still lacks a comprehensive approach to addressing plastic pollution. Additionally, the report reveals that while the National Development Plan 2015-2030 and the Environmental Policy Plan 2016-2021 recognize the importance of sustainable waste management, specific legislation for preventing plastic pollution is absent.
Furthermore, the report emphasizes the need for concrete actions to translate the government's commitments, as expressed during the "Webinar on Single-Use Plastic Products" in March 2021, into effective preventive measures. This underscores the urgent call for Curaçao to strengthen its legislative frameworks, promote international collaboration, and enhance waste management policies, aligning with the vision of the National Development Plan.
This report is a crucial step in identifying necessary improvements in the fight against plastic pollution in Curaçao, a problem that not only threatens the environment and biodiversity but also public health and vital economic sectors such as tourism and fisheries.