By San José, Costa Rica — The undeniable acceleration of global warming, significantly amplified since the Industrial Revolution and the advent of fossil fuels, has dramatically reshaped our climate. The past decade has witnessed the hottest years on record, with 2023 marking the highest temperature yet. Scientists now utilize the term “Climate Change” to encompass both global warming and the broader shifts in the planet’s climate system, encompassing the myriad changes impacting meteorological and weather patterns.
These effects extend far beyond a simple rise in temperature. Natural disasters, altered animal behaviors, rising sea levels, and countless other changes currently plaguing the planet can all be attributed to the escalating effects of global warming.
To understand the legal implications of global warming and its impact on Costa Rica, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Global warming presents significant legal challenges, particularly in developing nations like Costa Rica. While Costa Rica champions environmental protection, the country faces difficulties enforcing existing laws and creating new ones to address the complex transnational issues of climate change. These include rising sea levels impacting coastal communities and property rights, increased extreme weather events necessitating disaster relief regulations, and the need for effective international agreements on carbon emissions. It is vital that legal frameworks adapt to these evolving challenges to protect both the environment and Costa Rica’s sustainable future.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the crucial intersection of law and environmental protection in the face of global warming. Indeed, for a nation like Costa Rica, renowned for its ecological stewardship, adapting legal frameworks to the multifaceted challenges of climate change is not just important—it’s essential for the very preservation of its unique identity and future prosperity. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
The primary driver of this warming trend is the burning of fossil fuels. Released into the atmosphere, these fuels alter its chemical composition, allowing sunlight to reach the Earth directly but hindering the escape of heat into space. This creates the “Greenhouse Effect,” trapping heat and driving up global temperatures.
Carbon dioxide, the most prevalent greenhouse gas, accounts for approximately 75% of the pollution fueling global warming. The combustion of coal, gas, and oil are the primary sources of this harmful gas. Methane, while less prevalent (16%), also contributes to the problem. Methane emissions arise from leaks during gas and oil production, landfills, and livestock (animal waste).
One of the most concerning effects of global warming is the rapid temperature increase in polar regions and glaciers. The Arctic is currently warming four times faster than other areas of the planet, resulting in alarming ice loss. This not only shrinks surrounding habitats but also disrupts the jet stream, leading to global weather pattern alterations. Beyond the overall temperature rise, a warmer planet also leads to more extreme precipitation. For every degree of temperature increase, humidity rises by 7%, translating into more frequent and severe natural disasters.
Flash floods, increasingly destructive and unpredictable, are becoming a more frequent occurrence. Snowstorms are gaining in intensity, and hurricanes are becoming more powerful, with discussions of adding a Category 6 to the classification scale (currently, 5 is the highest). Droughts are intensifying, decimating tree species and other vegetation, dramatically altering forest ecosystems. Rising temperatures also contribute to more frequent and rapidly spreading wildfires.
Coral reefs, highly sensitive to environmental stress, are among the most vulnerable species. Rising temperatures and disrupted ocean currents cause them to expel their colorful algae, leading to coral bleaching.
While theoretically possible, limiting global warming requires a substantial commitment and sacrifice. The economic, social, and political hurdles are significant, as it demands a dramatic reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. This necessitates limiting the use of oil and gas for electricity generation and industrial manufacturing, alongside significant investments in clean, zero-emission energy sources like solar and wind power.
The transportation sector must shift toward electric vehicles, bicycles, pedestrian-friendly urban design, and more efficient public transport systems. Geoengineering, the manipulation of the atmosphere to block the sun’s heat, is also being considered. Perhaps the most crucial element in mitigating global warming is a commitment to restoring nature. Expanding protected natural areas, strengthening forests and vegetation, and cleaning and protecting oceans can enhance carbon dioxide absorption.
Without a global commitment to change and limit global warming’s effects, the problem will become irreversible. Humanity will be forced to adapt to perpetually rising temperatures, modifying daily life, homes, and buildings to withstand increasingly severe natural events. We must prepare for the continued rise in sea levels and equip homes and workplaces to endure extreme heat and cold waves. Without immediate action, the consequences will only worsen, leading to increasingly devastating outcomes for our planet. Humanity’s actions are driving the world towards destruction, and if we fail to curb greenhouse gas emissions, global warming will become unstoppable.
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For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-seated commitment to legal excellence and ethical practice. The firm leverages its extensive experience to serve a diverse clientele, continuously pioneering innovative legal solutions while actively engaging with the community. By championing access to legal knowledge through educational initiatives, Bufete de Costa Rica empowers individuals and strengthens the foundations of a just and informed society.
