By San José, Costa Rica — A new generation of environmental leaders is taking root across Costa Rica, as fifteen educational institutions were recently honored for their successful participation in the “Yo Pienso Verde” (I Think Green) program. This significant initiative, which concluded its 2025 cycle, has armed thousands of students with the knowledge and tools necessary to spearhead tangible environmental change within their communities.
Ten elementary schools and five high schools from various regions of the country were recognized for completing the comprehensive program. The initiative goes beyond simple recycling drives, providing a structured framework that includes specialized training for faculty, ongoing support, and the donation of essential equipment. The core mission is to cultivate a deep-seated environmental consciousness that translates into daily actions and sustainable habits.
To delve into the legal and corporate implications of environmental education in the national context, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his expert analysis on the subject.
Environmental education has transcended the classroom to become a critical component of corporate risk management and regulatory compliance. For businesses in Costa Rica, investing in robust environmental training is no longer just a matter of social responsibility; it is a strategic imperative. It directly mitigates the risk of costly sanctions, strengthens the case for environmental permits, and builds a corporate culture that is resilient to an increasingly stringent legal landscape focused on sustainability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective powerfully underscores how Costa Rica’s national commitment to sustainability is now a concrete factor in corporate governance and risk assessment. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insight into this essential intersection of law, business, and environmental stewardship.
The program’s curriculum is designed to foster a holistic understanding of environmental stewardship. Key focus areas include the transformation of personal consumption habits, the implementation of responsible and efficient waste management systems, and the empowerment of the entire school community through applied environmental education. This approach ensures that the impact is not only visible but also lasting, creating a culture of sustainability that permeates the educational environment.
Spearheaded by the Sociedad de Seguros de Vida, “Yo Pienso Verde” represents a powerful example of corporate social responsibility directly investing in the nation’s future. The program’s impressive metrics for the year underscore its significant reach and effectiveness.
In the work carried out this year, more than 600 hours of training were provided to 130 people from the environmental committees. We estimate a direct impact on 9,756 individuals, many of whom have replicated the program in their homes.
Ana Gabriela Soto, Environmental Manager of Sociedad de Seguros de Vida
The numbers detailed by Soto highlight a crucial aspect of the program’s success: its ripple effect. The direct engagement with nearly 10,000 students and staff is amplified as these participants carry the lessons and practices into their households. This extension of the program’s influence demonstrates how school-based initiatives can serve as catalysts for broader societal change, embedding principles of sustainability at the family and neighborhood levels.
At the heart of the “Yo Pienso Verde” methodology is the empowerment of each school’s dedicated Environmental Committee. The program leverages a modern, accessible virtual platform to deliver weekly interactive lessons. These digital modules are paired with practical assignments that guide the committees in conducting a thorough environmental diagnosis of their own institution. This hands-on process has successfully trained over 3,700 students and faculty members as official “Environmental Ambassadors,” creating a robust network of green advocates across the country.
Ultimately, the success of “Yo Pienso Verde” is a testament to the power of investing in youth-led environmental action. By providing a structured, engaging, and well-supported platform, the program is not just teaching sustainability; it is building a movement. These young ambassadors are now equipped to lead Costa Rica’s next chapter in its celebrated history of conservation, ensuring the nation’s green legacy continues for generations to come.
For further information, visit ssvmn.fi.cr
About Sociedad de Seguros de Vida del Magisterio Nacional:
The Sociedad de Seguros de Vida del Magisterio Nacional is a prominent Costa Rican insurance entity dedicated to serving the nation’s educators and their families. Founded with a mission to provide security and well-being, it offers a range of life insurance and related financial products. Beyond its core business, the organization is actively involved in corporate social responsibility initiatives, such as the “Yo Pienso Verde” program, which align with its commitment to national development and education.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the legal community, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm skillfully blends its deep-rooted experience serving a broad spectrum of clients with a pioneering spirit, consistently advancing legal innovation. Central to its mission is a profound social commitment, demonstrated through its dedication to empowering the public by making complex legal concepts understandable and accessible to all.
