Responsible Tourism
Costa Rica is a world leader in environmental management with over a quarter of its land devoted to national parks and biological reserves. The New Economics Foundation has listed Costa Rica as the "greenest" country on earth.[1] With global economists still predicting the growth of the tourism industry and international travel it becomes important for us as travellers to be aware of the possible negative impact of tourism on the environment and local cultures. Whether you are a short term visitor, a permanent snowbird or you have made the move to retire to Costa Rica, you can help!
- Be aware of the environment, culture and economy of the area
- Conserve resources by seeking out environmentally concious local businesses
- Show respect and tolerance for the local culture
- Help the local economy by purchasing from small local businesses where possible
- Use the least amount of non-renewable resources possible, and make the extra effort to reduce and recycle
Costa Rica's Green Pledge
Costa Rica has pledged to become the first country in the world to be carbon neutral, planning to complete the program in time for it's 200th birthday in 2021. [2] Only three years after President Arias made the announcement, Costa Rica is practically there. Already over 90% of its electricity is generated from renewable resources like hydropower, wind and thermal energy - and plans are underway to introduce solar power. Projects are also in progress that will bring in electric trains and busses, and encourage the move to clean bio-diesel and bio-ethanol for all vehicles. [3]
At VUCA we are proud to be a part of Costa Rica's sustainable travel industry. Please read our Environmental Policy to learn more.
1. New Economics Foundation - Happy Planet Index 2010
2. Reuters AlertNet - Costa Rica pledges to be carbon neutral by 2021
3. International Living - Costa Rica Nears Carbon Neutral Goal
