Costa Rica’s international recognition for its sustainability initiatives gives me a positive perception of the country. Costa Rica’s high ranking in environmental sustainability indicates the country goes to great lengths to improve its environment. To me, care for the environment indicates a concern for the future. When the environment is cared for and preserved in a sustainable manner, a long-lasting and self-sustaining supply of resources is established for future generations to use. Concern for environmental conditions locally indicates thoughts of the future for people in the country and also every country worldwide. When a country achieves such a high environmental sustainability ranking, I believe the country is striving to take part in a global effort to change the trajectory of the population toward a future of lower carbon emissions, renewable energy, and the sustainable development of communities. I think Costa Rica’s focus on sustainability makes the country seem more progressive where it is engaging in a current, popular movement toward the preservation of natural resources. 

Contributing to Costa Rica’s high environmental sustainability ranking are the initiatives they have taken to direct them in their work. Costa Rica has made initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint, especially from tourists. In addition, Costa Rica has adopted the UNWTO Code of Ethics to guide the tourism industry so it benefits communities across the country by simultaneously improving their economies and environment. 

I am excited to travel to Costa Rica because I believe it will be a fruitful experience. I anticipate learning about international travel and exploring the process of visiting a new country. I am excited to learn about the Costa Rican economy and how it relates to the production of various crops, especially coffee. Most of all, I expect to gain a new perspective on the world while experiencing Cost Rica’s rich culture.