Costa Rica consolidates its position as a world leader in sustainable tourism

Costa Rica continues to consolidate its leadership as one of the world's most sustainable destinations, thanks to a tourism model that exemplarily combines environmental conservation, social development, and inclusion.

This approach has allowed the Central American country to achieve significant environmental achievements, such as reversing deforestation: its forest cover went from 21% in the 1980s to 55% today. It is also home to 153 Protected Wilderness Areas and 30 national parks, making it a true paradise for
nature lovers.

In turn, this commitment to the environment has gone hand in hand with economic growth. Sustainable tourism not only promotes conservation but is also a key driver of the Costa Rican economy. In 2024, the sector represented 8.2% of GDP and generated more than 180,000 direct jobs.

This model has received widespread international recognition, having been awarded the UN Champions of the Earth Prize in 2019 and, since 2024, has led the UN Tourism Sustainability Committee. These awards reaffirm its commitment to policies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to truly responsible development.

In this sense, sustainability is also reflected in concrete actions such as the Ecological Blue Flag program, which currently certifies 140 beaches for their environmental quality, safety, and sustainability. Of these, 15 are accessible to people with disabilities, thus reaffirming an inclusive vision of Costa Rican tourism. 

Tourism, beyond the economic and environmental

Costa Rica prioritizes the Social Progress Index (SPI) as a key metric for measuring how tourism improves the quality of life of its residents. The combination of GDP and SPI allows the country to promote more inclusive and equitable growth.

Furthermore, it continues to innovate with new initiatives. Programs such as the Venue Certification and the Futurism project promote climate adaptation and stimulate private sector innovation. In line with these efforts, the country is also a signatory to the Glasgow Declaration and an active participant in the UN Plastics Initiative,
reaffirming its environmental leadership on a global scale.

In this way, Costa Rica demonstrates that it is possible to protect biodiversity, generate employment, and improve the quality of life for local communities, all at the same time. Its model is now positioned as a global benchmark in sustainable tourism and comprehensive development.

Source: ICT.