The government of Aruba launches a reforestation project at Spaans Lagoen on Earth Day 2025.

The Prime Minister symbolically planted the first White Mangrove tree in Spaans Lagoen, where lagoon water can reach and sustain the area's natural life. The volunteers also planted several White Mangroves in locations to help the vegetation return to and flourish in its natural habitat.

Across the road, the Prime Minister planted the first Fofoti tree, another natural symbol of our island, in an area dedicated to it, as part of the effort to expand the positive impact on our environment.

According to Mr. Tyson Lopez, Director of the Aruba Conservation Foundation, the project is part of a broader ecological restoration plan for Spaans Lagoen, a vital area for biodiversity. The salt marsh suffered degradation for many years due to soil accumulation and lack of water circulation, which affected the mangroves. This initiative aims to bring the White Mangrove back to this site.

The Ban Lanta y Planta Foundation's director, Anita Aarts, explained the procedure they use to establish and move mangroves from seed to the assigned locations. She also emphasized the essential role of white mangroves in protecting Aruba's ecosystem.

The Prime Minister underlined the pressing necessity of balancing environmental preservation and development since 70% of Aruba's natural vegetation has disappeared in recent decades. The vegetation loss is due to urbanization, construction, and infrastructure, but we reached a crucial point in restoring our natural areas.

The Ban Lanta y Planta Foundation is planting trees in the Bucuti Nature Reserve of Ewald Biemans in Noord. This project is an example of those that have already started there. 

The Ministry of Nature is committed to planting native trees, including fruit trees and other essential species. The effort aims to inspire the community to do its part and pass on environmental awareness to the next generation.