Destination Zero Waste Curaçao
Plastic waste and pollution are challenging issues on the island of Curacao, with more plastic currently being imported than is being sustainably managed.
An overburdened landfill site, which also contains plastic waste, is expected to reach capacity by 2025. So, together with Green Phenix, the project supports Curaçao on its journey to plastic circularity, by increasing plastic recycling, supporting green jobs and creating unique experiences for tourists and locals to take action to reduce waste.
Annually, around 1200 metric tonnes of waste in Curaçao ends up as litter in the natural environment, with even more washing up on the shore from ocean currents. This has a devastating impact on wildlife like sea turtles, as well as on the destination and its local communities.
Destination Zero Waste Curaçao reduces plastic waste in the environment in the most popular tourist area between Mambo Beach and Punda, where 36 000 kg of plastic will be collected, 27 000 kg will be recycled, and 9 000 kg will be upcycled.
Additionally, 54 businesses will be involved through networking meetings and as additional sales channels for upcycled products; 12 business service contracts will be secured, including the installment of two recycling stations, training and collection; and 27 collection stations will be installed and serviced in the Punda area.
All the plastic and aluminium waste that is collected will be transported to Green Phenix to be sorted, shredded into colourful flakes and turned into marketable products with a 3D printer or extruder.
Visitors can tour the Green Phenix operation and are taken through each step of the recycling and upcycling process, with souvenirs and products available to purchase or order. They can also participate in shoreline clean-ups to help keep Curacao clean. In total, the project aims to engage over 6400 people in sustainable tourism experiences. It also creates green jobs and accessible income opportunities for local people, organises educational workshops for school children and trains young people to learn to use the 3D printers and extruder machines.
Project Partner
Green Phenix is a social enterprise that aims to creates a circular inclusive economy in the Caribbean. Plastic waste is collected and with innovative technology transformed into new, long-lasting & meaningful products.
