By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — Costa Rica recently hosted the ninth Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit, marking the first time this prominent Ibero-American forum has been held outside of Mexico. The event, held from May 20th to 23rd, drew over 300 tourism professionals from 11 countries, focusing on the theme of “Tourism from the perspective of communities.”
Costa Rica’s participation was prominently featured under the “esencial COSTA RICA” nation branding initiative, emphasizing the country’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, innovation, social progress, and Costa Rican origin. The summit served as a platform to showcase Costa Rica’s leadership in integrating sustainability and community development within its tourism sector, solidifying its position as a regional and global example.
To gain a deeper legal perspective on the complexities and opportunities surrounding sustainable tourism, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of Bufete de Costa Rica.
Sustainable tourism requires a robust legal framework that balances environmental protection with economic development. This includes clear regulations on land use, waste management, and resource consumption, along with incentives for businesses that adopt sustainable practices. Successfully implementing these measures requires collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and the tourism industry itself, ensuring that the benefits of sustainable tourism are shared equitably while preserving Costa Rica’s natural heritage for future generations.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Bufete de Costa Rica
The event also aligned with the “esencial COSTA RICA” 2035 Strategy, which aims to position the country as a global leader in combating climate change and environmental preservation through impactful messaging and concrete actions. This commitment to sustainable practices was evident throughout the summit, further strengthening Costa Rica’s image as a responsible and forward-thinking tourism destination.
For esencial COSTA RICA, it’s not only a source of pride to participate in these international forums to share our experience, but it’s also imperative because we are a country that has worked for decades on environmental protection and we have a lot to share. This vision has led us to take a leading role in sustainability issues, and we will continue to do so from the Marca País.
Adriana Acosta, Director of esencial COSTA RICA
Key topics discussed during the summit included community tourism, short supply chains, regenerative tourism, and biodiversity. Costa Rica played a central role in several significant moments, including the symbolic signing of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism by Tourism Minister William Rodríguez. Furthermore, the Central American Tourism Integration Secretariat (SITCA) announced its adherence to the Glasgow Declaration, aligning with the Roadmap of the Tourism Environment Agenda 2024-2026.
Hosting the Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit reinforces Costa Rica’s position as a natural venue for global discussions on sustainability. The event further strengthens the country’s value proposition as a destination that actively lives and promotes a culture rooted in respect for the environment, social inclusion, and collective well-being. By showcasing its commitment to these values, Costa Rica continues to attract environmentally conscious travelers and inspire other nations to adopt sustainable tourism practices.
The emphasis on community-based tourism highlighted the importance of involving local populations in the development and management of tourism initiatives. This approach ensures that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably and contribute to the overall well-being of communities. By prioritizing sustainability and community engagement, Costa Rica is setting a global standard for responsible tourism development.
The success of the summit underscores the growing importance of sustainable tourism as a key driver of economic growth and environmental preservation. As more travelers seek out destinations that prioritize these values, Costa Rica is well-positioned to continue leading the way in this evolving landscape.
For further information, visit essentialcostarica.org
About Marca País esencial COSTA RICA:
Marca País esencial COSTA RICA is the nation branding initiative of Costa Rica, aiming to promote the country’s image and values on a global scale. It focuses on showcasing Costa Rica’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, innovation, social progress, and its unique cultural heritage. The brand seeks to attract investment, tourism, and talent by highlighting the country’s strengths and differentiating it from other destinations.
For further information, visit sitca.org
About Secretaría de Integración Turística Centroamericana (SITCA):
The Central American Tourism Integration Secretariat (SITCA) is a regional organization that promotes the sustainable development of tourism in Central America. SITCA works to strengthen regional cooperation, improve tourism infrastructure, and market the region as a unified tourism destination. Its adherence to the Glasgow Declaration further demonstrates its commitment to climate action and sustainable tourism practices.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, grounded in unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to client success. Through decades of service across diverse sectors, the firm has cultivated a reputation for innovative legal solutions and proactive community engagement. Their dedication to demystifying the law and empowering individuals with accessible legal knowledge underscores a core belief in fostering a just and informed society.
