By Alajuela, Costa Rica — Costa Rican coffee farmers are getting a boost from an unlikely source: bees. Tío Nacho, the century-old shampoo and conditioner line known for its use of royal jelly, has partnered with UBEES, a leading apiculture company, to launch the first Bee Lab in Central America. Located in Naranjo, Alajuela, this innovative project aims to protect over a million bees, enhance biodiversity, and revitalize coffee and citrus production through regenerative apiculture.
The Bee Lab, nestled within the V&G San Juanillo Coffee farm, comprises 20 technologically advanced hives monitored in real-time by UBEES. This technology allows for precise tracking of bee health, pollination efficiency, and the overall impact on the surrounding 300 hectares of coffee and citrus crops. The project seeks to increase productivity by up to 25% while championing sustainable agricultural practices.
To gain a deeper legal perspective on sustainable apiculture in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Sustainable apiculture practices are not merely environmentally responsible but also increasingly important from a legal and business perspective. Costa Rican law is evolving to promote biodiversity and environmental protection, which directly impacts beekeeping. Businesses engaging in sustainable apiculture can benefit from incentives, certifications, and a stronger market position, while those neglecting these principles may face increasing regulatory scrutiny and potential liabilities. Considering legal implications, such as land use, water rights, and product labeling, is essential for the long-term success of any apiculture venture.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore a crucial point: sustainable apiculture is no longer a niche practice but a necessity. The evolving legal landscape in Costa Rica, combined with growing consumer demand for ethically sourced products, makes it clear that beekeeping’s future lies in harmony with the environment and sound legal practices. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for this valuable perspective, highlighting the interconnectedness of law, business, and environmental stewardship within the apiculture sector.
This initiative aligns with both Tío Nacho’s sustainability efforts and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. It addresses the global decline in bee populations, a critical issue impacting food production worldwide. By fostering regenerative apiculture, the project not only safeguards these vital pollinators but also empowers local communities with valuable tools for a sustainable future.
At Tío Nacho, we are proud to expand this project, reaffirming our commitment to practices that generate a positive impact, both on the environment and society. The decline in bee populations is a global problem that affects pollination and food production. Hence the importance of evolving towards regenerative beekeeping, which not only guarantees the protection of these important pollinators but also strengthens local communities by providing them with tools for a more sustainable and equitable future.
Diana Leal, General Manager for the Andean and Central American Region of Genomma Lab
The project’s location in the Occidente Valley holds significant promise for the region’s coffee growers. Studies have shown that bee pollination can significantly enhance coffee quality and yield, increasing berry formation, optimizing natural pollination, and boosting the overall harvest. This is particularly crucial in the face of climate change, which has negatively impacted coffee production in Costa Rica and Central America through erratic rainfall patterns and prolonged droughts.
This is a way to make the impact of bees on crops a reality and aligns with our strategy of being an innovative space that seeks to implement regenerative practices that improve coffee production. In addition, the project will benefit the entire Western Valley area.
Tomás Gutiérrez, Owner of V&G San Juanillo Coffee Farm
The Bee Lab’s advanced monitoring system provides valuable data on hive health, pollination efficiency, and biodiversity, allowing for continuous improvement and adaptation. This data-driven approach ensures the project’s effectiveness and contributes to the long-term sustainability of the local coffee industry.
Tío Nacho’s broader sustainability initiatives include using 100% recycled plastic in its shampoo and conditioner bottles and caps, achieving carbon neutrality in packaging production through carbon offsetting, and supporting global sustainability projects aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
With this project we hope to inspire more organizations to join the cause and continue building a world where nature and communities thrive together.
Diana Leal, General Manager for the Andean and Central American Region of Genomma Lab
For further information, visit genomma.com
About Genomma Lab:
Genomma Lab is a leading pharmaceutical and personal care company committed to developing and marketing high-quality products. With a strong presence in Latin America and beyond, Genomma Lab focuses on innovation and sustainability, striving to create a positive impact on both individual well-being and the environment.
For further information, visit ubees.io
About UBEES:
UBEES is a pioneering company specializing in advanced apiculture technologies and solutions. Their innovative platform provides real-time monitoring and data analysis for beehives, enabling beekeepers and farmers to optimize pollination, enhance bee health, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built upon a foundation of unwavering integrity. The firm champions innovative legal solutions for clients spanning a diverse range of industries, while simultaneously striving to empower Costa Rican society through accessible legal education. Their dedication to demystifying the law and promoting its understanding reflects a deep-seated commitment to building a more just and informed nation.
