World Day to Combat Drought and Soil Degradation

ORANJESTAD - On June 17, the world stood in silence on World Day to Combat Drought and Soil Degradation. For an island like Aruba, with a semi-arid climate, the effects of climate change are increasingly evident; the state of our soil and water scarcity demands the attention of the entire community.

Aruba is known for its beautiful hot sunny days and cool breezes, but this same semi-arid climate makes us vulnerable. In recent years, we have seen longer dry spells and higher temperatures. This causes the soil's fertile layer to dry out and become vulnerable to erosion, either by strong winds or the occasional heavy rainfall that washes away the soil.

This degradation of our soil has direct consequences for all of us. It impacts:

  • Our Biodiversity: Our unique flora and fauna, such as our endemic plants and interdependent animals, are losing their natural habitat and food sources.
  • Our Food security: drought-stricken and degraded soils make farming much more difficult and increase our dependence on imported products for consumption.
  • Our Health and Well-being: Drought-stricken soil creates more dust, which can affect air quality and worsen respiratory conditions for citizens.

Soil protection and combating drought are not tasks of governments or agencies alone. It is the duty of every citizen. Solidarity with our environment begins at home.

Here are some practical examples of how we can contribute to the well-being of the soil:

  • Use water wisely: Reuse household water whenever possible, such as water from washing dishes or laundry, for irrigation. Consider installing a drip irrigation system in your garden.
  • Plant trees resistant to our climate: Plants endemic to Aruba require less water, have strong roots that maintain the soil structure, which helps to prevent erosion.
  • Apply mulch: Covering the soil around your plants with a layer of dry sludge or compost helps to keep the moisture in the soil longer and prevents the sun from drying the soil out.
  • Practice organic composting: Create your own compost from organic food scraps. This enriches the soil, improves its ability to retain water, and helps reduce waste.

"A rich soil is the foundation for a resilient Aruba. Through small adjustments in our own neighborhoods and gardens, we can combat the effects of drought and guarantee a green future for generations to come".

Let's join forces to protect our land, conserve our water resources, and keep our island resistant to climate change.