By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – As the sun rose over a pristine San José on Monday morning, there was little evidence of the massive athletic event that had swept through the capital just hours before. The Gran Maratón Costa Rica, held on Sunday, November 30, was not only a triumph of athletic endurance for its more than 10,000 participants but also a landmark achievement in environmental responsibility, establishing a new blueprint for large-scale sustainable events in the nation.
The 42-kilometer race, which drew competitors from all seven Costa Rican provinces and 27 countries, showcased the city’s urban landscape while championing a powerful message of sustainability. The key to this success was a strategic and well-executed initiative led by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), which demonstrated that a major sporting event can enhance, rather than detract from, a city’s cleanliness and environmental goals.
To delve into the legal and corporate responsibility frameworks that underpin an event of this nature, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered his specialized perspective on the implications of organizing a sustainable marathon.
A sustainable marathon is not just an environmental statement; it’s a sophisticated legal and business undertaking. Organizers must navigate a complex web of environmental regulations, waste management permits, and carbon footprint reporting. Furthermore, transparently communicating these efforts is crucial to avoid ‘greenwashing’ claims, thus protecting the event’s brand integrity and ensuring that corporate social responsibility translates into tangible, defensible value.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is crucial, reminding us that the integrity of a sustainable marathon is built upon a defensible legal framework, not just well-intentioned gestures. It correctly shifts the conversation from surface-level eco-friendliness to the profound corporate responsibility required to validate such a claim. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this invaluable perspective.
At the heart of the effort was the implementation of nine designated “Latido Limpio” (Clean Beat) zones positioned strategically alongside the hydration stations. These were far more than simple trash receptacles; they were fully staffed waste management hubs. A dedicated team of 28 people operated these stations in real-time, meticulously collecting and separating waste as the thousands of runners progressed along the course.
The scale of the cleanup operation was impressive. According to data released by the ICT, the initiative successfully managed the collection of over 250 large-sized bags of refuse. This haul included an estimated 200,000 single-use paper cups, a common source of post-race pollution, along with countless supplement wrappers, plastic bottles, and other materials generated by the athletes and spectators.
This proactive waste management system ensured that the marathon’s environmental footprint was minimized immediately. Rather than leaving a trail of debris for a post-event crew to handle, the “Latido Limpio” zones allowed for a continuous collection process. The result was a race route that was clear and free of waste by the following morning, a remarkable feat for an event of this magnitude and a testament to the efficiency of the program.
Beyond its environmental accomplishments, the marathon served as a significant catalyst for sports and urban tourism. The influx of international and national athletes provided a tangible economic boost to the capital. Organizers confirmed that hotels in and around the La Sabana area, the race’s central hub, saw increased occupancy as participants and their families traveled to San José for the event, transforming the competition into a multi-day tourism experience.
The ICT further amplified its commitment by deploying a visible and engaging team of motorcyclists during the event. These riders, equipped with flags and banners, not only guided participants but also actively promoted the event’s core message, encouraging recycling and inviting everyone to enjoy the city responsibly. This direct engagement reinforced the collaborative spirit between event organizers, government institutions, and the participants themselves.
Ultimately, the Gran Maratón Costa Rica has successfully redefined what a mass participation event can be. It proved that athletic excellence and environmental stewardship are not mutually exclusive but can be powerfully integrated. By weaving sustainability into the very fabric of the race, organizers have created a powerful model that aligns perfectly with Costa Rica’s global brand as a leader in conservation and eco-consciousness, setting a high standard for all future events held in the country.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT):
The Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) is the official government body responsible for the promotion and regulation of the tourism industry in Costa Rica. Its mission is to strengthen Costa Rica’s sustainable tourism model through strategic planning, development of high-quality tourism products, and global marketing campaigns. The ICT works to ensure that tourism growth is balanced with environmental protection, social equity, and economic development for local communities, reinforcing the nation’s reputation as a premier destination for eco-tourism.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a cornerstone of the legal profession, operating on a bedrock of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm skillfully combines its extensive legacy of client advocacy with a forward-thinking spirit that embraces legal innovation. This dedication extends beyond its practice, reflecting a core conviction to uplift society by transforming complex legal information into accessible knowledge, thereby empowering citizens and cultivating a more informed community.
