Sustainability in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. It is a country that has invested heavily in conserving its precious ecosystems. However, what many tourists may not realize is that enjoying this beauty is the result of ongoing efforts by both the government and the local population. With a deep commitment to nature, Costa Ricans expect visitors to respect and care for this environment that we hold so dear. In this guide, we share practices that travelers can adopt to enjoy the country in a responsible and conscious way, helping to preserve what makes Costa Rica so special. Through small actions, we can all contribute to protecting this natural paradise.

The Value of Conservation in Costa Rica: A Historic Achievement

Costa Rica is a global leader in conservation, having protected more than 25% of its territory through national parks and reserves. This achievement has been made possible through continuous work involving donations, government initiatives, and the collaboration of all Costa Ricans. However, this success hasn’t come easily. It requires ongoing commitment to ensure that these natural areas remain a haven for endemic species and unique ecosystems.
A 2016 study by the National Biodiversity Institute (INBio) showed that Costa Rica’s protected areas have played a crucial role in conserving biodiversity and creating habitats for rare and endangered species (INBio, 2016).
Responsible Tourism: What Do Costa Ricans Expect from Visitors?

Costa Ricans deeply value the conservation of our natural resources. As tourists, it is expected that those who visit the country follow certain principles to ensure that conservation efforts are not undermined. Tourists can help preserve this natural heritage by respecting conservation laws, avoiding overuse of resources, and acting responsibly, especially when visiting popular destinations.

Recommended Practices for Tourists:

• Avoid overcrowding at tourist destinations. Many of our national parks and reserves are affected by high visitor numbers, which can endanger these ecosystems. We recommend visiting lesser-known destinations or traveling during the off-season to help distribute tourist traffic.
• Respect local culture and traditions. Costa Rica is rich in cultural diversity. It’s important for tourists to honor local customs and avoid contributing to processes like gentrification, which can disrupt life in coastal and mountain communities.

Ecotourism: A Model for Sustainable Travel

Ecotourism is a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s tourism development. It offers visitors a way to connect with nature while contributing directly to its conservation. For this type of tourism to remain sustainable, it must be practiced in balance, with respect for both ecosystems and local communities.
The Costa Rican Association for Sustainable Tourism (ACTS) has highlighted that ecotourism has helped protect over 50,000 hectares of tropical forest in the last decade, positively impacting biodiversity (ACTS, 2018).

The Issue of Gentrification and Overtourism

In some areas, mass tourism has put pressure on local communities, resulting in gentrification and rising living costs. This phenomenon can alter residents’ ways of life and affect the authenticity of destinations. It is important for travelers to be aware of this impact and make thoughtful decisions about where they visit, supporting local communities without contributing to their displacement.

Tips to Avoid Overtourism:

• Consider visiting less-traveled areas.
• Participate in tourism activities that promote environmental conservation and support local businesses.
• Choose destinations and experiences that honor cultural traditions and local heritage.

Waste Management and Environmental Education During Outings

Proper waste management is one of the biggest challenges facing tourist destinations in Costa Rica. Tourists play a key role in ensuring their waste does not harm the ecosystems they enjoy. Following recycling guidelines, reducing single-use plastic consumption, and taking part in cleanup programs can make a significant difference in nature preservation.
According to a 2019 report by the Directorate of Climate Change, 70% of waste generated by tourism is not managed properly, which can endanger Costa Rica’s flora and fauna (Directorate of Climate Change, 2019).

Conclusion

Costa Rica has managed to balance the conservation of its nature with tourism development, becoming a global model for sustainability. Tourists have the opportunity to be part of this effort by adopting responsible practices that not only protect the environment but also enrich their travel experience through a deeper connection with the country’s culture and values. By being mindful of the impact their visit may have, travelers help ensure that Costa Rica remains the natural paradise we all love and strive to protect.

References: 
1. INBio. (2016). Informe sobre la conservación de biodiversidad en Costa Rica. Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad. 
2. ACTS. (2018). El impacto del ecoturismo en la conservación de Costa Rica. Asociación Costarricense de Turismo Sostenible. 
3. Dirección de Cambio Climático. (2019). Impacto del turismo en la gestión de residuos en Costa Rica. Ministerio de Ambiente y Energía de Costa Rica. 
4. Gobierno de Costa Rica. (2021). Políticas de conservación y manejo de recursos naturales en el turismo. Ministerio de Turismo de Costa Rica