Costa Rica Joins Mexico, Brazil, Canada, Dominican Republic, US, and Others in Redefining Green Tourism with Eco-Friendly and Community-Based Solutions

Costa Rica has solidified its reputation as a global leader in sustainable tourism by championing eco-friendly initiatives and community-based solutions that align with its commitment to environmental preservation and social responsibility. With nearly 30% of its land designated as protected parks and reserves, Costa Rica’s pioneering Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program sets the bar for responsible travel worldwide. The country exemplifies carbon-neutral ambitions, with almost all of its electricity sourced from renewables like hydropower and geothermal energy. Its holistic tourism strategy integrates conservation financing, community empowerment, and regenerative travel innovations, making it a model for sustainability in the tourism industry.​

Key areas of focus include empowering indigenous and rural communities, protecting biodiversity, and fostering low-impact experiences such as eco-lodges, wildlife tours, and sustainable agriculture visits. Costa Rica’s Payment for Environmental Services (PES) program compensates landowners for forest conservation, linking environmental stewardship directly with economic incentives for locals. These efforts are complemented by ongoing policy frameworks encouraging inclusive tourism that benefits people and the environment alike. While tourism continues to grow, challenges remain in balancing development pressures with conservation goals—areas Costa Rica actively addresses through strategic planning and international cooperation.​

Costa Rica’s leadership in green tourism exemplifies a broader movement across the Americas, joining countries like Mexico, Brazil, Canada, the Dominican Republic, and the United States in redefining the future of tourism. These nations collectively highlight the importance of sustainability and community engagement while demonstrating how tourism industries can contribute to social progress and climate resilience. As the host of the 2025 Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit, Costa Rica will showcase best practices and innovations shaping global tourism’s greener, more inclusive future.​

Key Points:

• Nearly 30% of Costa Rica’s land is protected, supported by the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program.
• Pioneers carbon-neutral goals with renewable energy providing almost all electricity.
• Combines conservation efforts with community empowerment via programs like Payment for Environmental Services (PES).
• Hosts the 2025 Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit to promote inclusive, green tourism globally.
• Part of an international cohort of countries prioritizing eco-friendly tourism and social responsibility in policy and practice.