ORANJESTAD – Joia Aruba by Iberostar is actively strengthening its commitment to sustainability through various projects focused on recycling, waste reduction, and the circular economy. During a recent presentation held on a Tuesday morning, representatives from the 3R initiative and the Compost Alliance detailed how they are transforming waste into useful resources for the community and the environment.
Stefanie, manager of the 3R department, explained that the name stands for “Reduce, Reuse & Recycle.” She noted that the hotel is unique in Aruba for maintaining a department entirely dedicated to waste management and sustainability. The system functions by sorting waste into three distinct categories: organic waste, general waste, and recyclable materials.
According to the presentation, organic waste is diverted from the landfill and Ecotech facilities. Instead, it is reused to feed pigs at a local farm as part of the Compost Alliance project. This concept creates a circular cycle where food leftovers eventually contribute to the production of new food. Furthermore, participating hotels collaborate with local organizations to recycle aluminum, glass, and plastic. Glass is crushed and repurposed for sandblasting, while plastic is processed with support from environmental foundations like Plastic Beach Party and the Met Wall Foundation. Other materials, including cardboard and eggshells, are also utilized for compost production and local agricultural projects.
In addition to these recycling efforts, Joia Aruba by Iberostar is intensifying its efforts to reduce food waste through an advanced digital system using Artificial Intelligence. This technology allows for monitoring of discarded products. Organizers stated that these initiatives contribute to a more circular and sustainable economic model for Aruba.
