Costa Rica has consistently ranked in the top 20 of the World Energy Council’s global “environmental sustainability” ranking. They are also the ranked fifth in sustainability in Latin American and Caribbean Countries and 52nd overall in the World. These sustainability efforts make Costa Rica seem much more impressive and progressive to me, as many of Costa Rica’s Neighboring countries are much less sustainable.

One of Costa Rica’s strongest sustainability initiatives is their National Decarbonization Plan. Started in February 2019, Costa Rica aims at transforming into a net-zero emission economy by 2050, setting an international example for sustainable development. The plan emphasizes eight cross-cutting strategies such as technological innovation, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement to enhance its overall impact.

Another sustainability initiative is Costa Rica’s Reforestation and Biodiversity Conservation. Due to policies that promote sustainable land use practices and forest protection, Costa Rica has increased their Rainforests from covering 40% of the Country in 1987 to nearly 60% today. Additionally, Costa Rica has pioneered payments for ecosystem services (PES), incentivizing farmers and landowners to conserve forests and enhance carbon stocks through activities like reforestation and agroforestry. Because of these practices, Costa Rica received the Champion of the Earth award in 2019!

I am most looking forward to going to Costa Rica to explore another culture different from my own! I can’t wait to not only learn about the Costa Rican Economy through site visits and exploration, but also try the amazing fresh fruit and coffee. Costa Rica has been on my travel bucket list for a long time, and so Plus3 is the perfect opportunity to explore the Country in which I’ve always wanted to visit! Lastly, I am looking forward to getting to know the fellow students that are going on this trip and experience a different culture together. I can’t wait!