Environmental Consciousness in Costa Rica
There is a lot of lip-service played to environmental sustainability in the tourism industry, but sadly not much meaningful progress as the development of hotels and infrastructure continues unabated. Costa Rica, however, has become a global leader in sustainable tourism and takes protecting their natural assets very seriously, with businesses across the spectrum – hotels, tour companies, car rentals and airlines – conscious of their environmental impact, sustainability and carbon emissions. The country has successfully reduced their environmental footprint; 26% of the land is now protected by conservation areas; and they are powering towards the lofty goal of being carbon neutral by 2021.
However, some areas of Costa Rica remain less developed than others, with poverty is still a major problem. Many children go without proper schooling facilities, or have to travel long ways in order to get an education. It must also deal with some of the sadder and shadier sides of tourism such as child prostitution and gambling.
However, some areas of Costa Rica remain less developed than others, with poverty is still a major problem. Many children go without proper schooling facilities, or have to travel long ways in order to get an education. It must also deal with some of the sadder and shadier sides of tourism such as child prostitution and gambling.
