As I learn about Costa Rica’s high ranking within the top countries for “environmental sustainability” my perception of Costa Rica does become altered. Previously, I had very little knowledge on Costa Rica and only knew about the tourism aspect of the country; however, learning about Costa Rica throughout the pre-departure meetings and learning this new fact does give me a new perspective on Costa Rica before the trip. Firstly, learning about the high sustainability efforts gives the appearance of Costa Rica being a country that focuses on environmental issues rather than worrying about fighting other countries, especially since Costa Rica has no army. Further, this makes me find Costa Rica even more interesting since there are no other countries that are exactly like Costa Rica. While some countries have sustainability efforts and are progressive with their politics, Costa Rica’s lack of an army is what really sets the country apart and emphasizes the progressiveness of the country. 

When researching the sustainability efforts of Costa Rica there are numerous initiatives that are in place. One of the most interesting initiatives is Rancho Mastatal which is an educational center for sustainability. Rancho Mastatal is very important to sustainability in Costa Rica as they also are a sustainable farm that builds with a nature first thinking. Thus, Rancho Mastatal also teaches the locals of Mastatal how to be sustainable through classes and also by leading by example. These educational programs will reinforce the ideas of taking care of the environment into future generations which will sustain the biodiversity of Costa Rica. On the other hand one of the biggest environmental efforts of Costa Rica is the amount of land preservation there is. 30% of the country’s territory is protected natural land which is very important since Costa Rica holds 5% of biodiversity in the world and 3.5% of marine life. Moreover, Costa Rica’s energy source is 93% renewable with goals to become the first carbon neutral country. Therefore, I am most excited to learn about all of the different wildlife and the nature that is present within the country and most specifically within the rain and cloud forests.