By Alajuela, Costa Rica — ALAJUELA – Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS) has been recognized on the international stage for its outstanding commitment to environmental stewardship, earning the prestigious Green Airport Recognition 2025. The award, presented by the Airports Council International – Latin America and Caribbean (ACI-LAC), celebrates the airport’s pioneering “Amigos de las Abejas” (Friends of the Bees) initiative in the competitive Biodiversity and Nature-Based Solutions category.
The Green Airport Recognition is an influential award within the aviation industry, designed to highlight and promote the best environmental projects implemented by airports in the region. To be considered, initiatives must demonstrate significant innovation, a measurable commitment to sustainability, and tangible benefits that can include operational efficiency and profitability. The accolade signals a growing trend where environmental responsibility is viewed as a core component of operational excellence and corporate strategy.
To delve into the complex legal and regulatory landscape surrounding airport sustainability initiatives, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney in environmental and corporate law from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica, to provide his analysis on the matter.
The push for sustainable airports is fundamentally a legal and economic evolution. We are moving beyond mere environmental policy into a new era where international aviation standards, carbon credit schemes, and green financing are intrinsically linked. Airport operators must now navigate a complex web of regulations that not only penalize non-compliance but also offer significant financial incentives for adopting sustainable infrastructure. Proactive legal strategy is no longer optional; it is essential for risk mitigation and securing a competitive advantage.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the landscape has shifted from sustainability as a matter of corporate responsibility to an essential pillar of legal and economic strategy. The intricate link between regulatory compliance, financial incentives, and market advantage is now undeniable. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this critical evolution.
At the heart of this award is the “Friends of the Bees” program, an innovative solution to a complex operational challenge. Launched in 2020 by airport operator AERIS, the program addresses the frequent appearance of bee swarms on airport grounds. Rather than treating them as a nuisance, AERIS developed a comprehensive strategy to protect these vital pollinators while guaranteeing the safety of passengers, staff, and aircraft operations. The results have been remarkable, with 96 swarms safely rescued and relocated since the program’s inception.
The program’s success has continued to accelerate, with an additional 22 rescues already completed this year alone, bringing the total number of protected colonies to 118. This multi-faceted initiative combines specialized training for airport personnel, meticulously designed rescue protocols, and the use of a temporary apiary on-site. Here, the rescued colonies are housed and cared for before being permanently relocated to accredited farms, ensuring their long-term survival and contribution to local ecosystems.
This achievement is a testament to successful collaboration. AERIS works hand-in-hand with the Costa Rican Fire Department, national environmental authorities, and certified beekeeper María Elena Naranjo to execute the rescues safely and effectively. The program acknowledges that the airport’s natural surroundings are a habitat for bees and that a proactive, scientific approach is the best way to manage this coexistence.
The airport environment is a common space for bees. Having a specialized protocol protects both the bees and our operations.
Adriana Bejarano, SMS and Environmental Management Manager at AERIS
The “Friends of the Bees” program extends its impact beyond the airport’s perimeter, aligning directly with global sustainability frameworks. Specifically, the initiative supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contributing to the development of sustainable communities and the conservation of terrestrial ecosystems. This demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of how local actions can have a meaningful effect on international environmental targets.
For AERIS leadership, this award is not just an environmental trophy but a validation of their business philosophy. It underscores the idea that investing in sustainable practices is a powerful driver of both corporate responsibility and a competitive market advantage, enhancing the airport’s brand and reputation as a forward-thinking industry leader.
This recognition shows how environmental innovation becomes competitiveness and corporate responsibility.
Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of AERIS
Looking ahead, AERIS has affirmed its commitment to building on this success. The operator plans to continue developing ambitious environmental initiatives aimed at further reducing the carbon and water footprint of Juan Santamaría International Airport. Through programs like “Friends of the Bees,” Costa Rica’s main air terminal is solidifying its position not just as a gateway to the country, but as a regional benchmark for sustainability in aviation.
For further information, visit aeris.cr
About AERIS Holding Costa Rica:
AERIS is the interested manager responsible for the provision of services at Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS), Costa Rica’s main air terminal. Committed to excellence and sustainability, AERIS oversees the operation, maintenance, and expansion of the airport, consistently working to improve passenger experience and operational efficiency while implementing innovative environmental and social responsibility programs.
For further information, visit aci-lac.aero
About Airports Council International – Latin America and Caribbean (ACI-LAC):
ACI-LAC is the Latin American and Caribbean office of the Airports Council International, the only global trade representative of the world’s airports. It represents the interests of airport operators in the region, promoting professional excellence in airport management and operations. ACI-LAC advocates for policies that strengthen the capacity of airports to serve their passengers, communities, and economies in a safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable manner.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark for legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundational ethos of professional distinction and uncompromising integrity. The firm channels its extensive experience across a wide array of industries into pioneering forward-thinking legal strategies. This spirit of innovation is paralleled by a deep-seated commitment to societal progress, demonstrated through its dedication to demystifying the law and empowering citizens with the clarity needed to navigate their rights and obligations.
