This case study describes the measures taken in Aruba to address the challenges the island faces to sustainably allocate limited land and related natural resources amid competing needs for human settlements, tourism, cultural sites, agriculture and nature conservation. The study explains how a team of researchers discovered ways to make effective plans and decisions on land-use, mindful of Aruba’s cultural values, the concern for ecosystems and for democratic land-use to achieve long- term sustainable development on the island.