WILLEMSTAD – On May 29, the Caribbean Research and Management of Biodiversity Foundation (Carmabi) celebrated its 70th anniversary. During a festive evening at the organization’s headquarters, employees, researchers, volunteers, and (inter)national partners came together to reflect on an impressive journey: from a modest marine laboratory to a regionally recognized center for nature research, education, and conservation.
The anniversary event served as an opportunity to look back on the meaningful role Carmabi has played since 1955 in protecting and understanding nature on Curaçao and beyond.
From Research Outpost to Influential Voice
Carmabi began in 1955 as a small research institute focused on marine biology. Today, it has grown into one of the most important centers for tropical nature research in the Caribbean. From its headquarters in Piscadera, Carmabi produces scientific publications, runs educational programs, manages national parks, and advises governments and private entities on sustainable nature policies.
In recent years, Carmabi’s scientists have published an average of more than forty peer-reviewed articles per year, often in collaboration with universities worldwide. The institute has made significant contributions to the international understanding of coral reef ecology and has studied the impact of human activities on local ecosystems such as mangroves, forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs.
According to Director Manfred van Veghel, Carmabi has developed over seventy years into a bridge between science and society. “Our knowledge is not just stored in academic journals – it lives in classrooms, in policy advice, in the fieldwork of our park rangers, and in the stories we share with the broader public.”
Education as a Core Mission
In addition to scientific research, Carmabi has been committed to education for decades. Thousands of students participate each year in programs about coral, mangroves, sea turtles, and sustainability. The organization has developed multilingual educational materials, provided teacher training, and launched interactive tours and apps for visitors to its parks, such as the Marine Education Center and the recently renewed Mangrove Park.
In his speech, Van Veghel emphasized that nature conservation must be local, inclusive, and resilient. This is why Carmabi continues to invest in youth, knowledge-sharing, and making nature visible. “Because what you come to know, you come to value – and protect.”
Conservation in Practice
Since merging with STINAPA in 1996, Carmabi has managed several national parks on Curaçao, including Christoffel Park, Shete Boka, Seru Largu, the Hato Caves, Curaçao Marine Park, and the new Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park. By combining field research with practical park management, ecotourism, and community engagement, Carmabi has become a model for how nature management can be organized in small island states. The organization also contributes research and advice on pressing environmental issues such as sargassum management, erosion, and climate change.
Odette Doest, Chair of Carmabi’s Supervisory Board, highlighted the importance of ecological awareness and education in her address. She expressed appreciation for the dedicated team that works daily to protect Curaçao’s unique nature. “Carmabi plays an essential role in strengthening the connection between people and nature. That connection is the key to sustainable change,” said Doest.
Future Vision: Connecting and Empowering
In his vision for the future, Van Veghel outlined Carmabi’s ambition to further develop as a regional hub where curiosity, innovation, and impact come together. Plans include expanding laboratory facilities, strengthening collaborations with local and international partners, and continuing to inspire young people to pursue futures in nature and science.
The presence of Acting Governor Michèle Russel-Capriles and other dignitaries underscored Carmabi’s societal importance. The governor expressed her appreciation for the foundation’s contribution to sustainable development and environmental awareness on Curaçao.
A Living Archive of Knowledge and Nature
Carmabi looks back with pride on seven decades during which thousands of people have been involved in protecting Curaçao’s natural heritage. From the first reef research in the 1950s to the launch of modern educational apps – the organization has evolved with the times but has always remained true to its mission: understanding nature in order to protect it.
“The greatest value of Carmabi is not just in our data or buildings,” concluded Van Veghel, “but in the people who dedicate themselves every day – with passion, curiosity, and love for the island. That is the foundation for the next 70 years.”
Press Release: 70 Years of Carmabi: From Marine Lab to Leading Knowledge Center in the Caribbean