EU Funding Push for Nature: The EU has opened a new call for proposals for biodiversity and sustainable natural-resource projects across Caribbean Overseas Countries and Territories, including Aruba, with applications due Aug. 28, 2026 and an online info session June 23. Bigger EU Money on the Table: A Dutch Parliament report says Curaçao and other Dutch Caribbean islands could see the OCT budget nearly double to €999 million for 2028–2034, with potential support for renewable energy, climate adaptation, biodiversity, and transport. Island Climate Spotlight: A Dutch MEP criticized the EU’s new islands strategy for leaving out the Kingdom’s Caribbean territories, arguing they face the same climate and economic pressures. Reef Protection at the Beach: A growing push for reef-safe sunscreens highlights that chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate can harm coral, and Aruba is among places where non-reef-safe products are illegal. Local Environment & Wildlife: Debate is heating up over off-road tourism access in Arikok National Park, after closures tied to a court case about protecting Aruba’s burrowing owl habitat and reducing dust impacts on flora and fauna. Animal Welfare: AWAA is running a free sterilization campaign this week with visiting vets, urging pet owners to bring dogs and cats for the service. Community Cleanliness: Prime Minister Mike Eman joined a Neighborhood Action cleanup in Rooi Afo and Seroe Preto, with Serlimar collecting bulky waste and local farmers sharing how bees support the environment.