In a day full of planting coffee seeds and walking through different terrain, the theme of production and energy stayed constant. Costa Rica’s focus on renewable energy has been noticeable the entire trip, especially when we passed the large wind turbine farm on the drive to Monteverde. Seeing all of those turbines taking over the mountain made it clear how much the country really invests in cleaner energy sources instead of relying heavily on fossil fuels. I think one major advantage of renewable energy is that it reduces pollution and helps protect Costa Rica’s environment, which is especially important for a country whose economy depends on ecotourism and nature. The concept of renewable energy also makes Costa Rica less reliant on imports such as oil and more independent in the long term.

There does seem to be some significant tradeoffs at the same time. Wind turbines change the natural landscape a lot and could affect the wildlife of flying animals. Renewable energy is also a hefty investment, while also being expensive to maintain, even if money overall is saved over time. In addition, energy sources such as wind depend on weather conditions, which creates a problem in dry seasons with little to no wind. Even with these issues, Costa Rica’s approach is one that balances economic growth with environmental protection, and the wind farm near Monteverde felt like a formidable example of the country investing in a more sustainable future.