The Ministry of Nature, in collaboration with Impact Blue Foundation and the University of Georgia, is launching the Circularity Assessment Protocol (CAP) for Aruba. The CAP is a scientific model developed by the Circularity Informatics Lab at the University of Georgia. The study encompasses an analysis of our island’s waste flow to help create a circular economy.
The CAP, which has already been conducted in 16 different countries, is a methodological system consisting of 7 components:
- Material input.
- Community perspective and perception.
- Product and packaging design.
- Single-use or reusable.
- Waste collection and management.
- Leakage into our environment.
- End of cycle.
One of the methods for analyzing waste is the ‘Waste Transect.’ This survey, which is already taking place around different areas of Aruba, documents every piece of trash based on type and quantity. A special program assigns different 1 square km areas of our island to survey 3 pieces of 100 meters by 1 meter. In each of these 100-meter by 1-meter pieces, all trash found using a special app will be documented.
All the aforementioned 7 components help inform each other. For example, for every piece of trash found, we can ask ourselves ‘what is it, how did it get here, and how can we prevent it from getting here?’ considering aspects such as packaging design, product alternatives, governmental management, or collection. This way, we can have a better idea of how to prevent the type of waste from reaching places it shouldn’t.
The Ministry of Nature emphasizes the importance of data-driven management. With a clear view of the waste flow on our island, more effective and comprehensive management can be created.
Minister Arends is committed to helping our island establish a circular economy and thereby reduce our waste. A cleaner future for Aruba is a future in which prosperity thrives in all areas.
