Sustainability is their lifestyle
When it comes to the top greenest countries in the world, it’s no surprise that Costa Rica is seamlessly one of them. In Costa Rica, sustainability isn’t a mere phrase that is proclaimed, it’s heavily integrated into every day life. According to research, approximately 99% of the country’s electricity is generated from renewable resources such as hydro, wind, geothermal, and solar power. Additionally, Costa Rica is “98% free of deforestation” and more than 25% of the country is dedicated towards protected natural land (Ex: natural parks). This is significant because it allows Costa Ricans to enjoy their beautiful land and maintain its health and value for many generations. This also shows how much Costa Ricans truly care about their country. In fact, since Costa Rica doesn’t partake in deforestation, all the forests cover half of the country, increasing its biodiversity.
One of the major factors that Costa Rica’s economy heavily relies on is tourism. Over the years, tourism has paved the way for more sustainability initiatives in the country. Through tourism, Costa Rica has been able to promote sustainability in national parks, rain forests, and tours. Another way that Costa Rica promotes sustainability is through the “Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) Program. This is a program that treats waste like basic utilities (Ex: electricity and water). Residents are charged based on the weight of the trash that they have accumulated. In return, this program is a major reason why Costa Rica recycles about 60% of its waste.
In all, Costa Rica has taken some major steps over the years to increase sustainability in their country. They even have a carbon tax to limit the emission of fossil fuels. Although Costa Rica still has some problems they will need to combat in the future, they are already on a great path to a greener country and to achieving parts of their National Adaptation Plan (NAP) to increase resiliency towards climate change.
Why I’m excited for Costa Rica
As an outsider with little experience about Costa Rica, knowing that Costa Rica deeply cares about sustainability and is taking steps to care for the environment, makes me have a positive perspective on the country. I find sustainability really interesting and it speaks to me because I really care about nature and enjoy exploring different, unique parts of it. I think it’s really important for people like me to continue giving back and caring for nature so everyone can continue to enjoy it and live healthy lives. Therefore, it’s heartwarming and motivating to see people and countries like Costa Rica advocating for sustainability and actively making changes.
For those reasons, I’m even more excited to come to Costa Rica. I want to explore the nature that they deeply care about and have worked hard to maintain. I can’t wait to be in a different environment taking in all the wonderful views and different cultures. I also can’t wait to try some new food (I’ve been thinking about it all week!).
Sources:
*https://casakiaora.com/blog/costa-rica-sustainability *https://archive.epa.gov/wastes/conserve/tools/payt/web/html/index.html#:~:text=Pay%2DAs%2DYou%2Dthrow%20(PAYT)%20breaks%20with,can%20of%20waste%20they%20generate. *https://greenbusinessbureau.com/green-practices/costa-rica-sustainability/