As a PhD candidate at Wageningen University and Research, I study the hydrogeology of the island of Curaçao. Understanding of the island’s complex and highly heterogeneous groundwater system is essential to characterize and quantify ground- and surface water inputs from land to sea. My hydrogeological research is part of the SEALINK research project, which aims to assess the impact of land-derived substances on the marine ecosystems that surround the island’s coastline. I find it fascinating to see how the interdisciplinary project leads to novel insights, as a puzzle that is slowly being solved. Now the end of the SEALINK project is near, it is time to apply these insights for sustainable groundwater management that aids both the island community, and the reefs.
