Curaçao Launches School Safety Taskforce With Inaugural Meeting

Green Force, a waste management and recycling organization based in Curaçao, has exported LDPE plastic for recycling for the first time since 2018, marking a significant milestone in the island's sustainability efforts. LDPE, or low-density polyethylene, is a common plastic used in items such as plastic bags, shrink wrap, and squeeze bottles, making it one of the more challenging materials to manage locally. The resumption of exports signals that Green Force has re-established the necessary logistics and international partnerships to process this material abroad. The gap since 2018 likely reflects disruptions caused by global recycling market shifts, the COVID-19 pandemic, and logistical challenges common to small island economies. This development is meaningful for Curaçao, which — like many Caribbean islands — struggles with plastic waste accumulation and limited local processing capacity. Successfully exporting LDPE reduces the volume of plastic ending up in landfills or the natural environment. The move is seen as a positive step toward strengthening Curaçao's circular economy and waste reduction goals.

A new report from the Social and Cultural Planning Bureau (SCP) released Monday calls for stronger government support for informal caregivers — people who look after ill, elderly, or disabled family members and loved ones. The report highlights that overload and burnout among caregivers is a growing problem, with many struggling without adequate resources or recognition. Among the key recommendations is the introduction of paid leave specifically for caregiving responsibilities, a benefit not currently available in Curaçao. The SCP argues that without structural intervention, the burden on informal caregivers will continue to worsen as populations age and healthcare demands increase. The report underscores that caregiving, while largely invisible in policy discussions, plays a critical role in the broader social welfare system. Advocates say government action is long overdue to protect the health and financial stability of those who provide this essential unpaid labor.

Sunday, October 4 marked World Animal Day, a globally recognized occasion dedicated to raising awareness about animal welfare. On Curaçao, the day was celebrated with an open house event held at the animal shelter in Parera, Willemstad. The event invited the public to visit the facility and engage with the animals housed there. World Animal Day is observed annually on October 4, coinciding with the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. Events like these play an important role in promoting adoption, responsible pet ownership, and support for local animal shelters. The Parera shelter open house provided residents of Curaçao a direct opportunity to connect with shelter animals and learn about the facility's work.