ORANJESTAD – Aruba is joining the global Plastic Free July campaign by encouraging residents and businesses to reduce plastic waste and adopt more sustainable habits to help protect the island’s environment and marine life.
Plastic pollution remains one of the greatest threats to coral reefs and marine species, including sea turtles, dolphins, fish and seabirds. Over time, discarded plastic breaks down into microplastics that can enter the food chain and affect both wildlife and human health.
Aruba’s ban on single-use plastics, established under the national environmental protection law, prohibits products such as plastic cutlery, straws, food containers, styrofoam items, balloons and plastic confetti. The government says compliance from businesses, the tourism sector and the public is essential to reducing plastic waste across the island.
Residents are encouraged to use reusable bottles and shopping bags, refuse unnecessary single-use plastics and support businesses that follow sustainable practices. The campaign also complements Aruba’s National Clean-Up Day on July 25, which aims to unite the community in keeping the island clean for current and future generations.
