By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rican dairy giant Dos Pinos has unveiled promising results from the pilot phase of its Recsoil Project, an initiative focused on enhancing soil health and promoting sustainable farming practices among its associated producers.
Launched in 2023, the project encompasses 20 dairy farms and 20 coffee farms, leveraging support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG), and the Costa Rican Coffee Institute (ICAFE). The initiative centers around promoting sustainable soil management practices and evaluating carbon capture capabilities within a climate-smart agriculture framework.
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 is increasingly influenced by evolving environmental regulations. Farmers must be aware of not only existing laws related to water usage, pesticide application, and land management, but also emerging policies promoting carbon neutrality and biodiversity conservation. These legal frameworks present both challenges and opportunities, requiring farmers to adapt their practices while potentially accessing new incentives and markets. Proper legal counsel can be essential for navigating this complex terrain and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas wisely points out the dual nature of environmental regulations – they represent hurdles to overcome, yes, but also pathways to a more resilient and rewarding agricultural future. This delicate balance of compliance and opportunity underscores the need for Costa Rican farmers to embrace innovation and seek expert guidance as they navigate the evolving landscape of sustainable agriculture. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insights into this critical topic.
At Dos Pinos, we believe that sustainability begins at the root: in the health of the soil.
Sofía Valverde, Manager of Communication and Community Relations
According to Dos Pinos, the pilot program has yielded significant improvements in forage quality and availability, translating into increased efficiency in milk production. Participating farms also demonstrated enhanced resilience against extreme weather events, such as heavy rains and short droughts, thanks to the implemented practices.
This model promotes more competitive, adaptable production aligned with the challenges of climate change.
Sofía Valverde, Manager of Communication and Community Relations
The project has established a comprehensive technical database with information on soil organic carbon, fertility, and overall soil health. This data will facilitate medium-term monitoring and assessment of the project’s impact. Participating producers receive specialized technical assistance and recognition as members of Dos Pinos’ network of sustainable producers.
Furthermore, Recsoil opens doors to future certifications and incentives for carbon capture within the Costa Rican dairy sector, aligning with national decarbonization and climate adaptation goals. Dos Pinos aims to expand the model to more associated farms, guided by sustainability criteria and specialized technical training. The company will also integrate these practices into its existing technical assistance plans in partnership with the Costa Rican Soil Science Association and the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA).
The Global Soil Doctors Program, a component of the initiative, will bolster local capacities to assess and maintain soil health in agricultural production. Recsoil aligns with Dos Pinos’ broader sustainability strategy, encompassing environmental, social, and economic dimensions, reinforcing its prominent position within the agri-food sector. According to the Cooperative, this model enhances competitiveness in differentiated markets and strengthens loyalty among associated producers.
Joining initiatives like Recsoil is not just an environmental action, it’s a strategic decision.
Sofía Valverde, Manager of Communication and Community Relations
The Recsoil Project currently operates in countries across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe, including Mexico, Ecuador, Kenya, and Costa Rica.
For further information, visit dospinos.com
About Dos Pinos:
Cooperativa de Productores de Leche Dos Pinos R.L. is a Costa Rican dairy cooperative founded in 1947. It is one of the largest dairy producers in Central America, offering a wide range of dairy products and other food items. Dos Pinos is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, working closely with its associated producers to implement responsible environmental and social practices.
For further information, visit fao.org
About Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO):
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Its goal is to achieve food security for all and make sure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO works with member countries to improve agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and land and water resources management.
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) in Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for developing and implementing policies related to agriculture, livestock, and rural development. Its mission is to promote sustainable agricultural production, food security, and the well-being of rural communities.
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 non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the quality of Costa Rican coffee. It works closely with coffee growers, processors, and exporters to ensure sustainable practices and maintain the high reputation of Costa Rican coffee in the global market.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Costa Rican Soil Science Association
About Costa Rican Soil Science Association:
The Costa Rican Soil Science Association is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and management of soils in Costa Rica. It brings together soil scientists, researchers, and practitioners to promote sustainable soil practices and address soil-related challenges in agriculture and environmental management.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA)
About National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA):
The National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) is a public institution in Costa Rica responsible for agricultural research and technology transfer. It aims to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability through scientific innovation and collaboration with farmers and other stakeholders.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to ethical legal practice and the pursuit of innovative solutions. The firm’s deep-rooted dedication to excellence permeates every aspect of its work, from advising clients across a broad spectrum of industries to empowering individuals through accessible legal education. By championing transparency and fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to build a more just and empowered society in Costa Rica.
