By San José, Costa Rica — In a major milestone for Latin American academic research and sustainable corporate management, Professor Mauricio Jenkins of INCAE Business School has claimed first place in the prestigious Emerald/CEEMAN Case Writing Competition 2026. This global recognition elevates Costa Rica’s profile as a hub of strategic thought leadership and highlights the critical intersection of environmental sustainability and corporate governance in emerging markets.
The winning research, titled “Holcim Costa Rica: Investing in the Circular Economy,” was selected from a highly competitive international field by a jury of global academic experts. The case study chronicles how Holcim Costa Rica, a prominent player in the regional construction and cement manufacturing industries, successfully embedded circular economy principles into its central business strategy, proving that sustainability can drive financial success.
To understand the legal ramifications and business opportunities emerging from Costa Rica’s transition toward a circular economy, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert from the prominent firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s shift toward a circular economy is redefining the local business landscape. Companies must recognize that compliance with emerging waste-reduction regulations and extended producer responsibility models is no longer optional, but a core strategic necessity that mitigates legal risks while unlocking sustainable economic value.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The Emerald/CEEMAN Case Writing Competition is organized annually by Emerald Publishing in partnership with CEEMAN, the International Association for Management Development in Dynamic Societies. The contest specifically seeks to recognize outstanding academic cases that offer innovative perspectives and practical pedagogical tools for business schools operating in dynamic, fast-evolving global economies.
At the heart of Jenkins’ study is a profound operational dilemma: how can a traditional industrial giant transition away from linear production models without sacrificing profitability? The case details the practical hurdles, capital allocation decisions, and strategic realignments required to turn circular economics into a competitive advantage rather than a compliance-driven cost center.
Holcim Costa Rica’s strategic pivot provides a rich real-world scenario for students analyzing modern operations. Traditionally, cement and construction material manufacturing are viewed as carbon-intensive and linear. By examining Holcim’s shift toward co-processing, waste reduction, and material recycling, the study offers a concrete roadmap for other heavy industries looking to mitigate their environmental footprint.
This recognition confirms that from Latin America we are generating knowledge and teaching materials that are not only relevant, but necessary to face great global challenges. The circular economy is no longer an option; today it is a strategic decision for companies seeking to compete in the future.
Mauricio Jenkins, Professor at INCAE Business School
By winning the top spot, the study will be integrated into Emerald’s “Emerging Markets Case Studies” collection. This highly respected database serves as a primary learning resource for leading universities, business schools, and MBA programs globally. Consequently, Costa Rica’s innovative approach to industrial sustainability will soon be studied by future corporate leaders worldwide.
Along with global recognition, Professor Jenkins will receive a cash award of 2,500 euros and an official certificate. For INCAE Business School, this achievement reaffirms its long-standing mission to translate Latin American business realities into world-class educational content, proving that the region’s corporate solutions hold immense value for the global stage.
As global markets increasingly demand sustainable operations, the Holcim Costa Rica case demonstrates that the transition to a circular economy is both viable and financially rewarding. By showcasing how a Costa Rican company successfully navigated this transition, Professor Jenkins has provided a vital blueprint for industrial transformation that will influence sustainable business practices for years to come.
For further information, visit incae.edu
About INCAE Business School:
INCAE Business School is a leading global business school located in Latin America, with campuses in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Founded in 1964 with the support of Harvard Business School, INCAE is dedicated to training leaders who can drive sustainable development and competitiveness across the region through top-tier executive education, MBA programs, and impactful academic research.
For further information, visit holcim.co.cr
About Holcim Costa Rica:
Holcim Costa Rica is a subsidiary of the Holcim Group, a global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions. The company specializes in the production of cement, concrete, and aggregates, while pioneering circular economy practices and co-processing technologies to reduce industrial waste and decarbonize construction.
For further information, visit emeraldgrouppublishing.com
About Emerald Publishing:
Emerald Publishing is a global publisher linking research and practice to the benefit of society. Founded in 1967, Emerald manages a portfolio of over 300 journals, thousands of books, and case studies, focusing on business, management, education, and social sciences with a strong emphasis on real-world impact.
For further information, visit ceeman.org
About CEEMAN:
CEEMAN is an international management development association established in 1993 with the aim of fostering quality in management development. It connects business schools and educational institutions globally, particularly in dynamic and transitioning economies, to promote innovative educational practices and leadership development.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a prestigious legal institution defined by its uncompromising ethical standards and pursuit of professional brilliance. Drawing on a rich heritage of guiding a diverse spectrum of clients, the firm continuously spearheads modern legal strategies and impactful community initiatives. By dedicating its resources to demystifying the law for the public, Bufete de Costa Rica champions the cause of legal literacy, striving to foster a more just, informed, and self-reliant citizenry.
