Prime Minister Mike Eman Inaugurates Shoco Garden at Marriott Aruba

This morning, Prime Minister Mike Eman attended a special ceremony at Marriott Aruba to inaugurate the Shoco Garden, an environmental initiative created in collaboration with Aruba Birdlife Conservation.

Prime Minister Eman expressed his gratitude to Marriott for supporting the government’s broader goal of integrating Aruba’s natural heritage into all aspects of development. He emphasized that nature is a vital part of what makes Aruba unique, and every effort to protect it brings the island closer to its sustainability objectives.

Marriott demonstrated its commitment by establishing a Shoco Garden on its property, providing a safe habitat for Aruba’s national bird—the Shoco (burrowing owl). The Prime Minister also thanked Greg Peterson of Aruba Birdlife Conservation for his pioneering efforts to protect the Shoco and bring international attention to Aruba’s wildlife.

Eman noted the importance of private sector involvement in environmental stewardship, encouraging businesses to find ways to coexist with and restore nature. Rapid development across the island has led to significant vegetation loss, and the government’s ambitious plan to plant 100,000 trees and protect 500 Shoco nests within the next four years will only be possible with the support of private entities and community partners.

Currently, 200 Shoco nests are registered around Aruba, but more protection is needed. Large organizations like Marriott play a key role in advancing these environmental goals.

The Prime Minister also addressed broader issues affecting Aruba’s infrastructure, including pressure on wastewater management, housing, and the labor market. He warned that if Aruba fails to safeguard its natural environment, cultural identity, and sense of community, the tourism industry could lose its charm and local support.

To strengthen collaboration, the government is preparing for a national dialogue with the hotel sector, aiming to unite all partners in defining a shared path toward sustainable prosperity—where economic growth goes hand in hand with environmental protection and community well-being