The Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association (AHATA) recently held a meeting with the leadership of Utilities Aruba N.V. to continue their ongoing dialogue and receive updates on the progress of improvement plans for the RWZI wastewater treatment plant in Bubali. For several years, AHATA has advocated for a solution to the plant’s insufficient capacity to handle the growing volume of wastewater it receives.

Earlier this year, AWSS N.V., a newly established state-owned company under the management of Utilities Aruba N.V., assumed responsibility for Aruba’s entire wastewater management system. This responsibility was previously held by the Department of Public Works (DOW). The capacity issues at the RWZI Bubali plant, a result of underinvestment over the last decade, pose potential environmental risks, particularly to the beaches and marine environment of Eagle Beach and Palm Beach.

AHATA expressed appreciation for Utilities Aruba’s efforts to implement both temporary and permanent solutions at the plant, but has also requested further clarification on the progress of these projects. With Aruba’s high tourism season approaching and two new hotels set to open on Eagle and Palm Beach, the urgency to address the plant’s capacity limitations has grown significantly.

During the meeting, Utilities Aruba N.V. provided a detailed explanation of the ongoing projects and installation timelines. AHATA will continue to actively engage in dialogue with Utilities Aruba N.V. and other key stakeholders involved in Aruba’s essential services, to ensure sustainable solutions that support the well-being of Aruba’s tourism industry.