Sustainability, by definition, is the ability to continue doing something indefinitely. The key word here being indefinitely. When discussing this word in relation the environment, it is easy to see that what we do now affects us in the future, and that we should focus on sustainability as our actions can have an impact. Costa Rica has an immense concentration on environmental sustainability standards as it continues to grow and improve conservation of the environment. Prior to the start of our Plus3 meetings, I was aware that Costa Rica had a strong environmental focus, but I did not realize the magnitude of initiatives that this country has taken. This exemplifies Costa Rica’s impressive dedication to the environment. Having a conservationist outlook as a country allows for the progress of sustainability and preservation of the incredible amount of biodiversity located in this country.
The Rainforest Alliance works to help farmers, hotels, and lodges adopt green practices involving the preservation of trees and the natural environment. They provide lodges such as Villa Blanca, located inside the cloud forest, with the necessary tools to operate sustainably by training employees, providing marketing support, and strengthening ecotourism standards. Villa Blanca promotes on-site composting and gray water treatment. Nearby farms provide food for the dining halls and the employees are all volunteers in the community. Dakota Estate coffee is another example of how these practices have been adopted. Dakota is preserving its trees, removing pesticides, and incorporating other sustainable practices into their daily operations. These practices not only help to improve the ecosystem, but also help to promote ecotourism which is increasing becoming the most important economic source of income for the country.
Another popular system in which Costa Rica promotes sustainability, is the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST). It focuses on measuring the sustainability of operating businesses, improving business environmental and social practices, and motivating businesses to choose sustainable tourism operations. The CST program allows for further education of environmental impact and environmentally friendly choices that can be made when traveling to promote sustainability. This program can also be related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals or SDG’s as it works to achieve economies of scale, greater market recognition of the standards, increased awareness, and improvement of the impacts tourism has on the environment and society.
A country with such an incredible amount of biodiversity must work hard to preserve it. Costa Rica takes impressive initiatives in conservation of nature. It will be truly incredible to see the passion that the people of this country have for their environment. I am beyond excited to spend time with my host family, further my Spanish speaking abilities, and immerse myself in a new culture. I love traveling and I cannot wait to explore the wonders that this country has to offer. ¡Vamos a Costa Rica!