Wendy W. Says:
My husband and I plan to retire to Costa Rica. How is Costa Rica affected by and responding to climate change? Thinking about climate change, are there areas that are best to avoid or best to choose as our new home?
IL Costa Rica Correspondent Bekah Bottone Says:
Hi Wendy,
Costa Rica is known around the world for pioneering more sustainable environmental practices. For example, the United Nations Environmental Program awarded Costa Rica the title “Champion of the Earth” in 2019.
One thing I find impressive about Costa Rica is its dedication to renewable energy. For the past few years, ICE’s National Electricity Control Center (CENCE) has reported that Costa Rica has generated more than 98% of its electricity from renewable sources (hydroelectricity, geothermal, wind, solar, and biomass). Costa Rica uses its natural treasures—the reasons tourists visit—to produce cleaner energy.
In its National Decarbonisation Plan, Costa Rica’s government aims for a net zero emissions target for 2050.
And there’s a law pending focused on eliminating single-use plastic (Law Number 9786 to Combat Plastic Pollution and Protect the Environment).
Yes, it is still waiting for signatures to be implemented. But for sure, this is a step in the right direction.
Costa Rica has also banned the importation of styrofoam, except in some instances (like when used for packaging household appliances or in some industrial uses).
Fully 25% of Costa Rica’s land area is protected. There are 30 National Parks managed by the Sistema Nacional de Areas de Conservación (SINAC). Having many options for exploring the natural world certainly improves my quality of life.
In my opinion, Lake Arenal offers a lot of healthy living options, and I would spend some time in different places around the lake to learn more and see how you feel in that area (for example, in Tronadora, Nuevo Arenal, and La Fortuna).
Additionally, I believe healthy living and beach life go hand in hand. I would stay away from downtown San Jose; however, the air quality is usually pretty good, even in the city.
Of course, plenty of options in the Central Valley offer countryside living and mountain views. I would recommend places such as Orosi, Grecia, Atenas, and Heredia.
Good luck, what an exciting time for you! Spending time in different parts of the country for an extended amount of time is the best way to get a feel for the country. And every expat I talk to says they just felt something special when they were in the right place for them.