Oral presentation: Peter Robinson

Two national surveys in Curaçao (555 respondents) and Aruba (560 respondents) during late 2025 and early 2026 captured public attitudes on climate adaptation to inform National Strategies.

In Curaçao, residents report climate impacts intertwined with economic strain. Nearly half face higher costs for essentials. Over half report disruption from extreme heat. Public support leans toward nature-based interventions like planting trees and accessible financial tools. However, this coexists with doubt toward government, with few expressing full confidence.

Aruba's survey revealed "getting warmer" as the predominant concern for over half of respondents, while dryness, storms, and sea-level rise received varied prioritization. Residents favoured options with ecological benefits, such as green roofs and water-saving systems.

Both populations demonstrate high climate awareness and preference for nature-based solutions. Affordability shapes support for measures that lower costs. However, Curaçaoans focus more on immediate economic hardships, while Arubans ranked heat as their top concern. Curaçao's survey highlighted a trust deficit in government.

Shared priorities include nature-based solutions with co-benefits, financial mechanisms like low-interest loans, and building trust through engagement. Curaçao needs infrastructure attention and accessible financing. Aruba could structure strategy around heat resilience and water security. Effective adaptation must be people-centred, ecologically sound, and economically inclusive.