Learning that Costa Rica ranks in the top 20 of the World Council’s global “environmental sustainability” ranking makes me respect Costa Rica’s efforts in perserving earth’s natural resources. Especially considering the climate crisis that the world is in, it is encouraging to see how Costa Rica seems to be doing everything that it can to save the earth. Sustainability plays such an important role in environmentalism and it really is impressive that Costa Rica ranks so highly in the world for sustainability. This information definitely makes Costa Rica cooler than I already thought it was, and I’ve always thought it was pretty cool. Considering the country’s immense natural beauty and thriving ecotourism industry, it makes sense that Costa Ricans would put so much effort into their sustainable practices.

As I am not an expert on this topic (yet), I searched online to see what Costa Rica specifically focuses on regarding their sustainability efforts. According to the UN Environmental Program, more than 98% of Costa Rica’s energy is renewable. It is so impressive that almost all of their energy is renewable, and definitely something that other countries should be looking to achieve. Additionally, after working to reverse decades of deforestation, forest cover now stands at more than 53% and about a quarter of Costa Rica’s land is protected parks and reserves. Having protected land is so important as it gives reassurance that the nature is safe from human destruction, which seems rare to find these days. Finally, regarding agriculture, Costa Rica is currently working toward its goal of emitting zero net carbon emissions and protecting biodiverse farming areas. While this may sound like a far-fetched dream, it’s safe to say that if any country can achieve this, Costa Rica can.

Aside from learning about the sustainable practices that I have discussed, along with many more I assume, I am also excited to develop a better understanding of the supply chain on this trip. It is going to be so cool getting a hands on experience with the entire process of the supply chain and I know that I am going to learn so much valuable information that I will carry with me for the rest of my college experience and my career. Overall, I believe that this is going to be a once-in-a lifetime experience and I am so happy that I will be spending Plus3 in the beautiful country of Costa Rica!