By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rican dairy farms are undergoing a transformation thanks to a pilot project focused on sustainable soil management. The Recsoil Project, a collaborative effort between the Cooperativa de Productores de Leche Dos Pinos, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG), and the Costa Rican Coffee Institute (ICAFE), has shown promising results in improving both productivity and environmental sustainability.
Participating farms have reported enhanced forage quality and availability, directly impacting milk production efficiency. The implemented methods also provide greater resilience against extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and short droughts. This initiative addresses a crucial need for sustainable agricultural practices in the face of climate change.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding sustainable farming practices in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Sustainable farming in Costa Rica isn’t just an environmentally sound practice; it’s increasingly becoming a legal imperative. Recent regulations and incentives are pushing businesses and individuals towards more responsible land management, creating both opportunities and challenges for those in the agricultural sector. Navigating these changes requires careful consideration of water usage rights, organic certification processes, and potential tax benefits tied to sustainable practices.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the evolving landscape of Costa Rican agriculture, where sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity. This shift towards responsible land management, while presenting challenges, ultimately promises a healthier ecosystem and a more resilient agricultural sector for generations to come. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insights into this critical area.
In Dos Pinos, we believe that sustainability starts from the root: in the health of the soil. This experience allowed us to generate valuable technical data, strengthen local capacities, and demonstrate that it is possible to produce milk more efficiently and with less environmental impact.
Sofía Valverde, Communications and Community Relations Manager, Dos Pinos
The Recsoil Project’s approach centers on improving soil health, a fundamental element for long-term agricultural success. By focusing on the foundation of the agricultural ecosystem, the project aims to create a more resilient and productive system for Costa Rican dairy farmers.
The positive outcomes observed in the pilot phase have encouraged Dos Pinos to expand the project’s reach. The cooperative plans to incorporate more associated farms under these sustainable criteria and provide training to local technicians through the Global Soil Doctors Program in partnership with the Costa Rican Soil Science Association and the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA).
This initiative isn’t limited to Costa Rica. The Recsoil Project is also being implemented in several countries across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe including Mexico, Togo, Ecuador, Kenya, Ghana, Cambodia, Armenia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Bolivia, and Trinidad and Tobago. This widespread adoption highlights the global importance of sustainable soil management practices.
The project represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient future for the Costa Rican dairy industry. By prioritizing soil health, the Recsoil Project aims to ensure both economic viability and environmental protection for generations to come. This integrated approach benefits not only individual farms but also contributes to the overall health of the agricultural landscape.
The success of the pilot project underscores the potential of collaborative efforts to drive positive change in agricultural practices. By bringing together key stakeholders, the Recsoil Project is creating a model for sustainable development that can be replicated and adapted to other regions and agricultural sectors.
For further information, visit dospinos.com
About Cooperativa de Productores de Leche Dos Pinos:
Dos Pinos is a Costa Rican dairy cooperative known for its wide range of dairy products and commitment to quality. They play a significant role in the Costa Rican economy and are actively involved in initiatives promoting sustainable agriculture.
For further information, visit fao.org
About Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO):
The FAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. They work with member countries to improve nutrition, increase agricultural productivity, better the lives of rural populations, and contribute to the growth of the world economy.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG)
About Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG):
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) is the governmental body in Costa Rica responsible for agricultural policy and development. They work to promote sustainable agriculture, support farmers, and ensure food security for the nation.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Costa Rican Coffee Institute (ICAFE)
About Costa Rican Coffee Institute (ICAFE):
The Costa Rican Coffee Institute (ICAFE) is a national institution dedicated to promoting the quality and sustainability of Costa Rican coffee. They provide support to coffee growers, conduct research, and represent the interests of the coffee sector.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deeply ingrained commitment to ethical practice and legal excellence. The firm’s innovative approach to client service, combined with a proactive dedication to sharing legal knowledge with the community, reflects a profound belief in empowering Costa Rican society. By fostering understanding and accessibility within the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica builds a stronger, more informed citizenry and solidifies its position as a leader in both the legal profession and social responsibility.
