Ride for the Roses Uses Eco-Friendly Tokens for 19th Edition

On January 26th, 2025, Curaçao’s Ride for the Roses marked its 19th edition with a step towards sustainability. For the first time, the event replaced the traditional physical roses with eco-friendly commemorative tokens, reflecting the island’s growing commitment to sustainable practices.

The Ride for the Roses raises funds for cancer patients and brings together participants to walk, ride, and swim for the important cause of supporting cancer patients in Curaçao. While the activities are diverse, this year’s focus was on the eco-friendly token – a special coin featuring the Ride for the Roses logo.

For years, the use of physical roses posed challenges due to their cost and environmental impact. The new tokens address these issues while preserving the event’s emotional significance. Participants were encouraged to place tokens at the graves of loved ones lost to cancer, making them both sustainable and meaningful keepsakes.

According to Chairman Benno van Leeuwen, the initiative aligns with global trends in sustainability. “This token allows us to honor traditions while reducing waste and environmental harm,” Van Leeuwen shared in an interview.

Introducing eco-friendly tokens highlights Curaçao’s innovative approach to blending community efforts with environmental consciousness. This reflects a broader shift on the island, where sustainability is becoming a core value in community initiatives, tourism, and development.