Seashells, coral, and sand in Aruba
You’ve probably heard about it being illegal to collect seashells and take them out of Aruba. Maybe some of us think that this is a harmless act and if we take one or two seashells, nothing happens. But if we think that everyone who goes to the beaches thinks that way, imagine the number of shells that disappear from our beautiful beaches every year.
I’m going to tell you some of the reasons why you shouldn’t have to take home the shells that you find on Aruba’s beach or any beach. I hope that after reading this article you will be more aware that everything in nature has a function and, from now on, it will also be you who will explain to the people around you why they should not take the shells that are found on the beach, especially on Aruba.
Why you shouldn’t take seashells from Aruba’s beaches or buy seashells.
There are several studies that maintain that human influence is depleting the seashells of our beaches and pieces of corals, especially when two factors intervene: that the area is touristy and, the shells in the area are beautiful.
As you know, human beings like to have everything they like, but if we think about it, why? It is true, they are beautiful, but to have them collecting dust on any shelf does not make sense, and even more so when you discover that shells have even more functions to do in nature. So who are we to break this cycle?
If you want a souvenir, you can always take a picture of it. Also, many times, even though they are out of the water, it does not mean that they are dead or that they no longer have a use. In nature there is no waste, everything is used; in fact, humans are the only ones that generate waste without purpose.
A silent environmental impact disguised as harmless
Tourism around the world has multiplied in recent decades and most of us like to spend time on the beach. And as possession-obsessed humans, we like to take home a “free” gift like seashells.
And, I understand walking along the seashore looking for sea treasures is a favorite pastime for beachgoers of all ages. And for some, collecting shells became a lifelong hobby many, many years ago.
I suppose that like me, most of this information will make us think twice when we make that gesture that seemed so innocent or like taking some shells home and the impact of that action globally.
The gorgeous seashells, why are they there?
Shells provide a diverse swath of environmental functions: they help to stabilize beaches and anchor seaweed; they provide homes for creatures such as hermit crabs and hiding places for small fish; they are used by shorebirds to build nests; and when they break down, they provide nutrients for the organisms living in the sand or for those that build their own shells. The ocean supports many delicate ecosystems. If one thing is out of balance, the results can be devastating and every shell performs some ecological role.
An empty spiral shell for example is home for hermit crabs, they depend on it for their survival. They need to move homes when they get too big for their current shell and if they can’t find a larger one, they’ll die from exposure or get gobbled up by a predator. They could even use our trash as a new home, with all its consequences.
Now imagine what would happen if we continue to rob ocean animals of the tools they need for their survival.
What does the Aruban law say regarding seashells?
The National Ordinance Protection of Native Flora and Fauna and the Sand Ordinance prohibits the removal or export of seashells, corals, and beach sand from Aruba. Please, keep this in mind before you make the decision of taking seashells out of the island!
Because you are not allowed to leave the island with seashells, the customs officials at the airport will most likely confiscate them from you and you will also end up paying a fine. Of course, this all will lead to an unpleasant travel experience for you. So, in all said don’t takes seashells or corals, not because of the pricy fine but because you what to conserve the nature of our island as your second home!
So, enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the seashells and corals, and leave them where they belong, in their natural environment at the beach and not just in Aruba, but on any beach in the world. Imagine you and your children and grandchildren coming to Aruba every year and always seeing beautiful seashells and corals on the beaches. 
Only together we can make a difference and help protect, not just our marine life but Aruba as our home.