The Costa Rican Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) continues its efforts to minimize climatic change effects The Costa Rican tourism industry has joined forces to create the National Strategy for Climatic Change which seeks to mitigate gases from the global warming. It also seeks to minimize any risks and consequences which can come from these climatic changes.

The CANATUR expects serious commitment from all of its members in regards to practices which will lessen gas emissions from the global warming. Although tourism only produces 5% of these gases worldwide, the Costa Rican tourism industry has come together to show their commitment and desire to promote sustainable practices and development to the world.

The National Strategy’s first goal has been set for 2021 in which 100% of the country’s tourism companies are expected to have adopted all sustainable practices. This program will be divided into two sectors. The first sector will be focused on the transportation companies which produce 80% of the emissions. The hotel sector will be addressed in order to preserve or better manage electrical power.

The second stage will evaluate the neutral carbon emissions from the tour operators, adventure activities service, theme parks, restaurants and administrative offices. A recent survey held by the Costa Rica Tourism Board showed that 49% of tourists who visit Costa Rica are aware of Global Warming. However, only 21% of the tourists prefer hotels with environmentally friendly practices and only 19% are willing to pay more for those hotels with environmentally friendly practices.

The Costa Rican tourism industry is very much aware that the only way they can preserve their natural resources is by the practice of sustainable tourist activity. The responsibility the country has committed to will position Costa Rica among the highest in the world as well as guarantee a future for the country’s tourism and biodiversity.