Parkietenbos waste pollution is raising concern among nearby residents, with Stichting Parkietenbos calling on the Government of Aruba to address odors, air quality and waste-management practices affecting surrounding neighborhoods.
The foundation said it supports initiatives promoting a cleaner Aruba, including the recent National Cleanup Day organized under the slogan “Cuida Aruba.”
However, Stichting Parkietenbos argues that there is a contradiction between encouraging residents to keep the island clean while communities near waste-processing and disposal areas continue reporting environmental problems.
According to the foundation, it has sent several letters to the Government of Aruba warning about waste management in Barcadera and the disposal of waste at Ser’i Teishi.
The organization claims these practices are creating public-health concerns for residents living nearby.
Stichting Parkietenbos said waste accumulation and processing, combined with disposal activities at Ser’i Teishi, have caused persistent odors that affect several neighborhoods.
The areas identified by the foundation include Mahuma, Parkietenbos, Simeon Antonio, Buena Vista and other nearby communities.
Residents reportedly experience unpleasant smells, flies and concerns about air quality, which the foundation says are negatively affecting quality of life.
The organization emphasized that environmental protection should not be limited to cleaning beaches, roadsides and natural areas.
According to Stichting Parkietenbos, protecting Aruba also means ensuring that residents can live in communities with clean air and responsible waste management.
The foundation is asking the government to stop waste disposal at Ser’i Teishi and implement concrete measures to address odors, air pollution and other problems associated with current waste-management practices.
It is also requesting that Stichting Parkietenbos, representing affected residents, be included in future discussions and decisions concerning waste management in Aruba.
The foundation said residents of Mahuma, Parkietenbos, Simeon Antonio, Buena Vista and surrounding areas are not seeking special treatment.
Instead, they are asking for what the organization describes as an equal right to live in a healthy environment and breathe clean air.
Stichting Parkietenbos said addressing Parkietenbos waste pollution should form part of any broader effort to protect Aruba, arguing that caring for the island also requires protecting the health and wellbeing of its people.
