The historic decision by the Government of Aruba to permanently close a chapter of nearly a century of oil industry and open a new path toward a sustainable future has received wide attention in the Dutch press, including NOS, Trouw and others.
In recent publications, the media highlighted the change of direction Aruba is taking after almost 100 years of economic dependence on oil. According to NOS: “Aruba refinery to close permanently, the Netherlands will assist with dismantling,” while Trouw noted: “Aruba refinery closes, Prime Minister Schoof speaks of a major decision.”
Since 1924, with the arrival of the Lago Oil and Transport Company in San Nicolas, Aruba has played a strategic role in the global oil-refining industry. For many years, the industry was the heart of Aruba’s economy.
Recognizing global change and the urgent need for sustainability, Prime Minister Mike Eman and his cabinet made the decision to close the oil era once and for all. The refinery area will be transformed into a green industrial zone, a space for technological innovation, renewable energy and circular economy.
To support the energy and environmental transition, the Dutch government will provide Aruba with 110 million florins and will collaborate on the technical and knowledge aspects to clean up the industrial area in San Nicolas as efficiently and sustainably as possible.
According to the Government of Aruba, this step symbolizes a national shift in mindset. With this decision, Aruba not only closes a chapter of its industrial history, but also reaffirms its position as a small country with big thinking, placing the well-being of its people and its environment at the center of its development.
Press release: Government of Aruba
Government