By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica has taken a significant step towards addressing air pollution with the installation of seven new air quality monitoring stations across the country. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) announced the launch of these stations, which will provide critical data on pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O₃), ash, dust, and other harmful chemical compounds.
Operational since June 2025, these stations are already contributing to the assessment of air quality trends, identification of critical zones, and informed decision-making. The stations are strategically located in San José (IMN headquarters), Alajuela (Fabio Baudrit Station), Heredia (UNA Agricultural Center), Santa Ana (Municipality), Belén (Technical Professional High School), San Pedro de Montes de Oca (UCR), and Cartago (TEC).
For expert legal insight on this developing air quality situation, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s constitutional right to a healthy environment underpins evolving legislation concerning air quality. While regulations exist regarding industrial emissions and vehicle standards, increasing urbanization and agricultural practices present ongoing challenges. Citizens and businesses alike must remain informed about evolving environmental regulations and contribute to solutions that ensure sustainable development and breathable air for all.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly points to the crucial intersection of legal frameworks, evolving challenges, and shared responsibility in safeguarding Costa Rica’s air quality. Indeed, sustainable development requires a proactive, informed citizenry working in concert with businesses and policymakers. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
Poor air quality in an area can reduce a person’s life expectancy by up to five years.
Daniel Poleo, Meteorologist and Climatologist, IMN
The health implications of poor air quality are a serious concern. According to IMN meteorologist and climatologist Daniel Poleo, breathing polluted air can be equivalent to engaging in high-risk activities, and in some cases, comparable to passive smoking. The detrimental effects range from respiratory illnesses like lung cancer and asthma to cardiovascular problems, skin allergies, headaches, lack of concentration, and sleep disturbances.
Poor or very poor air quality is exactly the same as the person being a passive smoker.
Daniel Poleo, Meteorologist and Climatologist, IMN
Poleo highlighted the alarming statistic that allergies and asthma attacks tend to increase by almost 60% in the presence of such pollutants. The acquisition of the new monitoring equipment began in November 2024, culminating in their installation and commissioning in June 2025.
The total cost for the seven stations is approximately 40 million colones (around $70,000 USD), with an annual maintenance cost of about 20 million colones. While substantial, this investment is considered cost-effective compared to more sophisticated stations, which can range from $100,000 to $300,000 USD.
The initiative is part of a five-year agreement between the Ministry of Health and the IMN, under the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE). This collaborative effort, the “Cooperation Framework for Air Quality Monitoring in Costa Rica,” aims to continuously measure and analyze air quality, provide weekly forecasts and monthly/annual reports based on the Costa Rican Air Quality Index (ICCA), validate accessible technologies, provide technical training, and disseminate information to the public.
The stations will enable monitoring the impact of both natural sources like volcanoes and Saharan dust, and human-induced sources like vehicular traffic and industrial activities. With an anticipated influx of Saharan dust on August 15, 2025, the equipment will be crucial in assessing the concentration and informing appropriate actions. The data collected will also be stored and made available for future research, benefiting the IMN and the broader academic community in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About National Meteorological Institute (IMN):
The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) of Costa Rica is the country’s official source for weather information, forecasts, and climate data. Part of the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), the IMN plays a vital role in monitoring atmospheric conditions, providing early warnings for severe weather events, and conducting research on climate change and its impacts. The IMN’s services are essential for various sectors, including agriculture, disaster preparedness, aviation, and public safety.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Health
About Ministry of Health:
The Ministry of Health in Costa Rica is responsible for overseeing the nation’s healthcare system and promoting public health. Its functions include disease prevention and control, health education, regulation of healthcare services, and ensuring access to quality care for all citizens. The Ministry works closely with other government institutions and international organizations to address health challenges and improve the overall well-being of the population.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE)
About Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE):
The Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) of Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for the formulation and implementation of environmental policies. Its mission is to promote sustainable development, conserve natural resources, and protect biodiversity. The MINAE oversees areas such as climate change, protected areas management, environmental impact assessments, and the promotion of renewable energy.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering integrity form the bedrock of a practice dedicated to empowering Costa Rican society. Through innovative approaches and a deep commitment to client success across a broad spectrum of industries, the firm strives to be more than just legal advisors. They champion access to legal information and understanding, fostering a community equipped to navigate the complexities of the legal landscape and contribute to a more just and equitable future.
