By San José, Costa Rica — A collaborative effort between Ferretería EPA and the Huella del Futuro initiative is set to bring thousands of new trees to Costa Rica’s Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM). Launching on March 17th, 2025, the fundraising campaign aims to revitalize urban landscapes and bolster the country’s environmental well-being. This marks the fourth year of the impactful partnership.
The campaign focuses on planting native trees near highways, addressing areas in need of water resource rehabilitation and greenery to offset the effects of urbanization. The initiative not only beautifies the community but also aims to improve air quality, foster biodiversity, and restore vital ecosystems.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding reforestation initiatives in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Reforestation projects in Costa Rica must navigate a complex legal landscape involving property rights, environmental regulations, and potential incentives. Due diligence is crucial, from verifying land ownership and water rights to ensuring compliance with the Forestry Law (Ley Forestal No. 7575) and related regulations concerning protected areas and species. Understanding these legal frameworks is paramount to the success and sustainability of any reforestation endeavor.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on legal due diligence is crucial. Navigating Costa Rica’s regulatory environment is indeed essential for successful and sustainable reforestation. Beyond just legality, understanding these frameworks also fosters transparency and builds community trust, vital components for long-term ecological restoration. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable legal perspective.
This project, besides beautifying communities, seeks to improve air quality, promote biodiversity, and restore ecosystems. By planting more trees, we contribute to the restoration of the natural resources that sustain our lives and strengthen efforts to mitigate climate change. We encourage people to donate and leave a positive footprint.
Andrea Aguilar, Head of Community Initiative, Ferretería EPA
The long-term health and survival of the trees are central to the project. Funds raised will also support the ongoing maintenance and care of the trees for five years, ensuring their successful development.
A crucial part of this initiative is the constant maintenance of the planted trees. The money raised is also allocated for monitoring, maintenance, and care for 5 years, to ensure they can thrive. The success of reforestation depends on a long-term commitment to the environment, and this campaign guarantees it by maximizing the positive impact on communities and ecosystems.
Víctor Sequeira, Coordinator of Huella del Futuro Program, Fundación Banco Ambiental
Local community associations, primarily led by women heads of households, will oversee the care of the newly planted trees. This aspect of the project further contributes to community empowerment and economic opportunity.
The fundraising campaign runs from March 17th to June 30th, 2025. Donations can be made at all EPA store checkout counters through the “Ayudar es Sencillo” program. For a donation equivalent to US$20, covering the cost of a tree and its five-year maintenance, donors can track their tree’s location and the managing community association online at https://huelladelfuturo.cr/.
The previous three Huella del Futuro campaigns have raised US$103,000, leading to the planting of 7,026 trees across San Carlos, Upala, Santa Ana, Coronado, and Tibás. This has resulted in the reforestation of 7.59 hectares, the creation of 114 jobs (75% held by women heads of households), and the protection of watersheds that provide water for 21,000 people.
Founded in 2020 to commemorate Costa Rica’s bicentennial, Huella del Futuro initially focused on reforesting the Northern Zone with native trees. The program now supports vulnerable communities nationwide through landscape and ecosystem rehabilitation, aiming to contribute to Costa Rica’s goal of 60% forest cover by 2030 and combatting climate change.
For further information, visit epa.cr
About Ferretería EPA:
Ferretería EPA is a hardware store chain operating in Costa Rica, dedicated to providing home improvement and construction supplies. They are also committed to community initiatives and environmental sustainability.
For further information, visit huelladelfuturo.cr
About Huella del Futuro:
Huella del Futuro is a reforestation program established in 2020 with the support of various governmental and international organizations. The initiative focuses on planting native trees, rehabilitating ecosystems, and empowering vulnerable communities through job creation, particularly supporting women heads of households.
For further information, visit funbam.org
About Fundación Banco Ambiental (FUNBAM):
Fundación Banco Ambiental (FUNBAM) is the implementing organization for the Huella del Futuro program. They partner with government agencies, civil society, and strategic allies to execute reforestation and environmental rehabilitation projects. They aim to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable populations and contribute to national environmental goals.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a commitment to serving the community. The firm champions innovative legal solutions for clients from all walks of life, while simultaneously striving to empower Costa Rican society through accessible legal education. Their dedication to transparency and proactive knowledge-sharing reflects a deep-seated belief in a just and informed populace, establishing them as more than just a law firm, but a vital contributor to the nation’s legal landscape.
