WILLEMSTAD - The Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) and the CARMABI Foundation brought together scientists, policymakers and community representatives from across the region on 7 November for the symposium Healthy Waters. Thriving Nature. Vibrant Communities on Curaçao. The event focused on improving coastal water quality to protect marine ecosystems and support healthy, resilient communities.
Two milestones celebrated
The symposium marked two important milestones: the launch of DCNA’s new Conservation and Restoration of Key Habitats Program, and CARMABI’s 70th anniversary. Among the attendees were the Governors of Curaçao and St. Maarten, the directors of all six national park organizations in the Dutch Caribbean, policymakers and scientists from across the region.
Science as the foundation for action
DCNA’s director Arno Verhoeven introduced the new Key Habitats Program, explaining how it will strengthen habitat restoration and protection across all six Dutch Caribbean islands. CARMABI director Dr. Manfred van Veghel reflected on seven decades of research that have shaped marine conservation and management in the region. Prof. Dr. Mark Vermeij (CARMABI) highlighted that traditional water quality indicators do not always reflect the true state of coral reefs, but that enough knowledge already exists to guide immediate restoration measures. International experts Dr. Andreas Haas (NIOZ), Andy Estep (Waitt Institute) and Dr. Jos Hill (The Nature Conservancy) shared insights on microbial dynamics, translating science into effective policy, and the important role of wastewater management. Their shared message: improving water quality is one of the most powerful ways to help both people and nature thrive.
Key outcomes
Through workshops and discussions, participants concluded that declining water quality directly affects reefs, fisheries, tourism and public health. They emphasized the need for regular coastal water monitoring, closer collaboration between science and policy, and improved wastewater treatment as one of the most immediate opportunities for positive impact.
Next steps
The symposium concluded with a shared commitment to continuing regional collaboration. In a follow-up workshop, participants identified eleven practical projects that can be implemented now to deliver measurable improvements in water quality across the Dutch Caribbean. These projects include actions to improve wastewater treatment systems, expand coastal water monitoring, reduce nutrient runoff, strengthen policy frameworks, and engage local communities in water conservation.
Together, they aim to create tangible benefits for both people and nature in the region.
Photo credit: Berber van Beek
