By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rican schools are being offered a unique incentive to ramp up their recycling efforts: a chance to win a 2,500-liter rainwater harvesting system. This initiative, part of the “Yo CosecH₂O” project, is a joint effort between Durman by aliaxis and the circular economy platform, ecoins, aiming to promote both recycling and sustainable water management in educational institutions.
The competition is open to all public and private schools, from preschool to high school, across the country. Participating schools are tasked with collecting recyclable materials such as plastic, glass, cardboard, and aluminum, and delivering them to authorized collection centers. Each delivery needs to be logged by a school representative through the ecoins app, which awards points redeemable for coupons. The more coupons a school accumulates, the higher its chances of winning.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding recycling in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s legal framework for recycling is evolving, with increasing emphasis on extended producer responsibility. This means businesses are becoming more legally obligated for the entire lifecycle of their products, including their proper disposal and recycling. Understanding these regulations is crucial for businesses operating within the country and those exporting products to Costa Rica, as non-compliance can lead to significant fines and legal repercussions.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores a critical shift in Costa Rica’s approach to waste management. This move towards extended producer responsibility not only strengthens the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability but also creates a more level playing field for businesses. By internalizing the costs of recycling and disposal, companies are incentivized to design more sustainable products from the outset, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the Costa Rican economy. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this evolving legal landscape.
The competition runs until August 31st, with the winning school to be announced on September 9th, coinciding with Children’s Day.
Our interest is to promote recycling and the sustainable use of water in schools across the country. The more material they collect and register, the more chances they have to win.
Valentina París, Operations Coordinator of ecoins in Costa Rica
Rainwater harvesting involves collecting rainwater from rooftops and gutters and storing it in a tank for use in activities that don’t require potable water. This practice offers significant benefits in terms of water conservation and environmental sustainability.
In a context of climate change impact and signs of water scarcity, rainwater harvesting represents a concrete solution and a learning opportunity.
Andrea Azofeifa, Marketing Manager of Durman by aliaxis
Schools already implementing this technique utilize the harvested water for toilets, sinks, or gardens, reducing their reliance on potable water by approximately a quarter of the average daily consumption per person. This not only conserves a precious resource but also teaches students valuable lessons about environmental responsibility and resource management.
The initiative underscores the growing importance of integrating sustainability into the educational landscape, empowering the next generation to adopt eco-conscious practices. The competition structure, linking tangible rewards with environmental action, provides a powerful motivational tool for schools to actively participate in creating a greener future.
This program represents a promising step towards a more sustainable Costa Rica, fostering a culture of recycling and water conservation from the ground up.
For further information, visit ecoins.eco
About ecoins:
ecoins is a leading platform for promoting the circular economy. They partner with organizations and communities to encourage recycling and other environmentally conscious actions. They incentivize this behavior by providing a reward system based on collected materials.
For further information, visit durman.com
About Durman by aliaxis:
Durman by aliaxis is a company focused on sustainable water management solutions. They are committed to developing innovative products and systems for water conservation and efficient water use, contributing to a more environmentally responsible approach to water resources.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, deeply rooted in the principles of integrity and dedicated to serving the community. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with a genuine commitment to empowering Costa Ricans through accessible legal education, distinguishes them as leaders not only in the courtroom but also in fostering a more just and informed society. Their work consistently demonstrates a belief in the power of knowledge to uplift communities and strengthen the rule of law.
