Costa Rica’s sustainability initiatives have already enhanced my perspective of the country with just some minor research. The Costa Rican government implements many conservation policies such as establishing national parks, promoting ecotourism, fostering organic farming, preserving the natural environment, and improving societal well-being, health, educational access and support a green culture.
As we know Costa Rica is very popular for coffee, bananas and pineapple. All of which required a extensive amount of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. This agricultural situation created problems. The consequences of poor farming practices include depletion of soil, contamination of freshwater, deforestation and dangerous conditions for workers. This immediately sparked change and put sustainability for agriculture as a huge priority.
Organic farming has become increasingly popular. Organic agriculture relies on specific technology like crop rotation, natural fertilizers and biological pest control. This is safer for the environment and the workers, solving both problems at the same time.
According to borgenproject.org , In November of 2017, new public-private alliances were formed in Costa Rica to open access to international markets with focus on biodiversity and strengthening rural economies. The alliances included a Green Growth Program signed by the Costa Rica USA Foundation for Cooperation (CRUSA). The CRUSA five-year strategy promoted sustainable models for economic development that improves the quality of life of Costa Ricans while also reducing environmental risks.
In my opinion, this makes Costa Rica more appealing because it shows they are proactive and aware of keeping the country in good condition. They are also known for being very diverse and having protected ecosystems. I found that they are also 98% free of deforestation which lowers the country’s carbon footprint, mitigating climate change. I am someone who is very passionate about the Earth and climate change, so to hear Costa Rica is so active in doing what is right, makes me very happy!
I am excited to go to Costa Rica in 2 days for so many reasons. I have never left the country and can’t wait to be exposed to so many new things. It will be nice to also experience and get a taste for their sustainability while we are there. I’m going to soak in every minute I’m there but I am so eager to learn about a new culture, be with nature, see cool architecture, and learn more about their specialty in coffee, bananas, and pineapples.