Hello! My name is Malina Cameron, and I just finished my first year at Pitt! I am majoring in Marketing and Supply Chain Management. Outside of academics, I am currently an active member in the business fraternity Phi Gamma Nu, where I serve as the director of professional development. I am also an active member in The American Marketing Association and in Corporate Connections at Pitt Business. I am so excited to be traveling to Costa Rica!

Costa Rica’s initiatives increased my perception of the country, and they are truly inspiring and forward-thinking! Costa Rica is has been making strides in sustainable banana farming for years. The country has implemented measures to prevent the entry of the fungus, Tropical Fusarium Race 4. This devastating fungus has found its way into many banana plantations. Some measures taken include intense fumigation of vehicles and certification of imported banana material. Along with these efforts Platanera Río Sixaola has continually gone above and beyond sustainability requirements, even becoming 100 percent carbon neutral.  Like many banana farms in Costa Rica, Platanera Río Sixaola sits in a low-lying area that’s vulnerable to flooding. But at Platanera Río Sixaola, a lush ground cover protects fertile soils, and native trees line the banks of local streams, helping prevent waterways from overflowing into the farm during heavy downpours. These efforts ensure that Costa Rica will remain as a leading exporter of bananas while still maintaining high environmental standards. These initiatives, that focus on sustainability, highlights Costa Rica’s commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative agricultural practices.

I am so thrilled to have the opportunity to go to Costa Rica! I have always cared deeply about the environment and having the unique opportunity to witness firsthand how a country can successfully balance economic growth with environmental sustainability is incredible. Overall, I am very excited to get this chance to see this unique culture first hand, and I cannot wait to learn and expand my knowledge on this trip!