Donation
"Support the Commons."
Malpais–Sint Michiel is Curaçao’s living laboratory for regenerative development. Your contribution
— in time, skill, or funding —
helps us restore ecosystems, empower communities, and build knowledge that lasts.
Join the Alliance.
Steward the Commons.
Whether you are a guide, a business, a researcher, a community member, or simply someone who cares about Curaçao's natural and cultural landscapes
Participation Pathways
Certification
Programs
COIA offers sustainability certifications that recognise and promote responsible practice across the outdoor industry.
Mission
Statement
"Our mission is to champion the harmonious coexistence of outdoor enthusiasts and the natural world, fostering a sustainable relationship through education, advocacy, research, collaborative initiatives, and stewardship."
Seven principles of regenerative outdoor practice — expanded from the Foundation Profile and reinforced by the Malpais Plan’s framing.
Leave No Trace
Leave no trace of your presence behind, including trash, waste, or damage to vegetation and wildlife habitats.
Responsible Recreation
Follow established guidelines for hiking, camping, and climbing. Stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and adhere to any regulations in place to protect natural areas.
Education & Awareness
Share information about sustainable outdoor recreation and encourage others to protect and restore natural ecosystems.
Community Engagement
Engage with local communities to foster collective action — from clean-up events to advocacy for environmental policies that benefit both people and planet.
Sustainable Gear & Equipment
Choose gear sustainably sourced, durable, and minimal in environmental impact — recycled materials, ethical sourcing, designed for longevity.
Regenerative Land Use
Support activities that promote regenerative land management: sustainable agriculture, reforestation, conservation. Volunteer; support businesses that prioritise regenerative practices.
Carbon Offsetting
Offset the carbon footprint of outdoor activities by supporting reforestation initiatives and renewable energy projects.
Impact Pillars
Goals & Impact Areas
Education
Training & Support Public education, guide empowerment, sustainability certifications, capacity building, and an information hub for the outdoor industry.
Advocacy
Stewardship inspiration, sustainable design advocacy, funding lobbying, and a legislative voice for the outdoor industry.
Research & Development
Benchmarking industry standards, conducting essential research projects, and generating data for educational and lobbying initiatives.
Collaboration
Facilitating international knowledge exchange and fostering a global community committed to regenerative practice.
Ownership & Management
Strategically acquiring or managing parks, nature reserves, and outdoor spaces — ensuring their preservation and sustainable use for future generations
Meet the Team
Terence L. Ching
President (18 years conservation NGO; outdoor guide and trainer)
453 volunteers
Policy Alignment
Grounded in National and International Policy
Our work is explicitly aligned with Curaçao's core policy frameworks and international commitments.
National Development Plan (2015–2030) — education, sustainable growth, national identity, good governance
Nature Policy Plan / National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (2024–2030) — ecosystem restoration, community stewardship
National Export Strategy — regenerative tourism and education services
Ramsar Convention — wise use of wetlands of international importance
UNESCO Man and the Biosphere — people-centred conservation and learning landscapes
Regenerative Blue Economy & Convivial Blue Commons frameworks — restoration, justice, shared governance