Costa Rica has earned a global reputation as a pioneer in sustainability, making it an attractive destination for eco-conscious expats and retirees. This small Central American nation offers pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a culture that embraces the “pura vida” philosophy of living in harmony with nature. More than 5% of the world’s species live in Costa Rica even though it covers just 0.03% of Earth’s surface. With bold environmental policies and community-led initiatives, Costa Rica stands out as a country where green living isn’t just a goal – it’s a way of life.
Renewable Energy: Powering a Green Future
One of Costa Rica’s most impressive achievements is its renewable energy record. The country has operated on over 98% clean, renewable electricity for six consecutive years, primarily from hydroelectric, wind, geothermal, and solar sources. In fact, in 2020 Costa Rica’s electric grid ran on 99.78% renewable energy, reaching its 2030 renewable energy target a decade early. This green energy powers nearly all homes and businesses, drastically cutting carbon emissions from power generation.
Costa Rica isn’t stopping at electricity – it’s pushing toward a carbon-neutral future. The government’s decarbonization plan aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with initiatives to electrify transportation, improve energy efficiency in buildings, and expand public transit. Under this plan, the country is promoting electric vehicles and trains, energy-efficient buildings, and continued investment in wind and solar. These efforts are not only environmentally friendly but are projected to yield $41 billion in economic benefits over the next three decades. For expats and retirees, this means living in a nation with modern infrastructure that’s increasingly powered by clean energy, resulting in cleaner air and a forward-looking economy.
Conservation and Biodiversity: A National Treasure
Beyond clean energy, conservation is at the heart of Costa Rica’s identity. Despite its small size, Costa Rica is a biological treasure trove – about 6.5% of Earth’s total biodiversity resides in this tiny country. To protect this natural wealth, Costa Rica has designated over 25% of its territory as protected areas, including 30 national parks. This is one of the highest proportions of protected land in the world, encompassing rainforests, cloud forests, wetlands, and marine reserves. Over half of Costa Rica is forested, and about 24% of the land is pristine primary forest teeming with wildlife.
Importantly, Costa Rica has reversed deforestation and become a model for reforestation. After suffering from heavy logging and farming in the mid-20th century, the country enacted strong forest protection laws and payment-for-conservation programs. In the last few decades, forest cover doubled and Costa Rica is now “one of the most rapidly reforesting countries in the world.” This revival means residents enjoy clean water, fresh air, and abundant green spaces.
Perhaps nowhere is Costa Rica’s biodiversity more evident than in the southern region’s Osa Peninsula, home to Corcovado National Park. This park alone contains “the most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity,” according to National Geographic. In just 164 square miles of Corcovado, you can find 5% of the world’s animal species, including tapirs, monkeys, jaguars, scarlet macaws, and whales offshore. Such natural richness is a source of national pride and a daily wonder for those living nearby. Imagine waking up to the sounds of toucans and howler monkeys, or taking a morning hike and spotting sloths in your backyard trees – in Costa Rica, this is everyday life.
Pioneering Green Policies: From Carbon Neutrality to Zero Waste
Costa Rica’s government and people are deeply invested in environmental protection, bolstering grassroots efforts with ambitious national policies. In addition to its renewable energy and reforestation success, the country has committed to becoming carbon-neutral and zero-emissions by 2050, setting an example for the world. This climate leadership was evident when Costa Rica powered its entire electric grid on 100% renewable energy in recent years, and it continues as the nation works on greening transportation and industry.
Another area where Costa Rica leads is the fight against pollution and waste. The country has taken dramatic steps to eliminate single-use plastics, which litter oceans and landscapes worldwide. A national initiative launched in 2017 aimed to phase out all single-use plastics by 2021, including items like plastic bags, straws, cutlery, and cups. In April 2024, a law came into force banning many of these plastics nationwide. Stores can no longer freely hand out plastic bags or straws, and government agencies are prohibited from buying single-use plastics. By tackling the 60 tons of plastic waste the country used to generate per day, Costa Rica is moving toward a zero-waste future. Many communities have embraced this change by promoting recycling, composting, and alternatives to plastic in daily life.
Wildlife conservation laws are also notably strict. Costa Rica outlawed recreational hunting and has crackdowns on poaching and illegal logging. The government collaborates with local organizations to protect endangered species – from sea turtle nesting grounds on the coasts to the resplendent quetzal’s cloud forest habitat in the highlands. Such policies reflect a broader cultural value: living in balance with nature for the benefit of current and future generations. Expats often find it refreshing to live in a country where environmental news is front-page news and where communities rally to protect local rivers, forests, and wildlife.
Sustainable Food and Farming: From Farm to Table
In Costa Rica, caring for the environment goes hand-in-hand with caring about what’s on your plate. The country is in the midst of a push toward sustainable food systems, aiming to ensure that agriculture is both earth-friendly and provides healthy food for all. A national strategy called “Costa Rica Towards Sustainable and Healthy Agri-Food Systems 2023–2026” is strengthening support for organic farming, local markets, and nutritious diets. This means the government, farmers, and communities are working together to reduce pesticides, improve food traceability, and encourage people to eat fresh, local produce.
It’s true that Costa Rica has a history of industrial farming (notably bananas and pineapples) that relied on heavy agrochemical use. However, a growing movement of organic farmers is changing the landscape. Only about 2% of farms in Costa Rica are fully organic, but these pioneering farmers are proving that chemical-free agriculture is viable and rewarding. For example, small family farms like Rinconcito Orgánico have flourished by growing dozens of crops without pesticides, offering healthier food to local communities. These green farming champions are supported by farmer cooperatives, government incentives, and an increasing demand from consumers for organic options.
Farm-Fresh Goodness and Farmers’ Markets
One of the delights of moving to Costa Rica is access to year-round farm-fresh food. Thanks to the tropical climate and rich soils, you’ll find an abundance of fruits (mangoes, pineapples, papayas), vegetables, coffee, and even cacao grown within the country. Many towns host weekly farmers’ markets (ferias) where local growers and artisans sell their goods. In the southern Pacific region (Costa Ballena), for instance, there are several weekly markets offering local, fresh, organic produce and handcrafted goods.
At the Uvita farmers’ market, you can fill your reusable bag with organic greens, tropical fruits, fresh-caught fish, free-range eggs, and homemade bread. Vendors often proudly explain how their products are grown or made, whether it’s goat milk soap infused with local lavender or kimchi made from organic veggies. The community’s commitment to sustainability is evident – Uvita’s popular El Mercado on Wednesdays is even dedicated to a plastic-free initiative, so shoppers and sellers avoid disposable plastics entirely. These vibrant markets are not only a place to shop; they’re a social hub and a celebration of sustainable living. Neighbors swap gardening tips, local musicians play acoustic tunes, and you might enjoy a snack like an organic cacao smoothie or an artisanal cheese empanada as you browse.
For expats and retirees, the food culture in Costa Rica is a joy. Fresh, nutrient-rich food is a way of life here. You can dine on farm-to-table meals at local restaurants and know exactly where your food is coming from. In Uvita and nearby towns, many eateries serve dishes made with locally sourced ingredients – imagine enjoying a plate of fresh fish with organic vegetables grown just miles away. Embracing this healthy, sustainable diet is easy; as one local expat-oriented guide notes, “Costa Rica is famous for its fresh, locally sourced produce… In Uvita, you’ll have access to an abundance of tropical fruits, vegetables, and seafood, and with a focus on organic farming, you can enjoy a diet that is both delicious and nutritious.”. It’s no wonder many retirees in Costa Rica report feeling healthier – the combination of unprocessed foods, outdoor exercise, and clean environment does wonders for well-being.
Southern Spotlight: Ojochal and Uvita – Living the Green Ethos
While sustainability is woven into the fabric of Costa Rica as a whole, the southern Pacific region provides shining examples of eco-friendly living. In particular, the neighboring communities of Ojochal and Uvita, in the beautiful Costa Ballena area of Puntarenas province, embody the country’s environmental values in daily life. These small towns, surrounded by rainforest-covered mountains and the azure Pacific, are not only scenic – they are hubs of conscious, sustainable living that attract like-minded expats and locals.
Uvita is often described as a place “where nature meets community spirit”. It’s best known as the gateway to Marino Ballena National Park, Costa Rica’s first marine park, famous for its iconic Whale’s Tail beach formation and seasonal visits from humpback whales. The park was established to protect the coral reefs and marine life, including whales and dolphins, in the area. This commitment to conservation shapes Uvita’s development: the town has adopted a model of growth that values the environment over high-rise development, meaning you won’t see towering resorts on the beachfront. Instead, the coastline remains lined with mangroves, palm trees, and jungle – an unspoiled view that locals fiercely protect. In Uvita, you can literally surf in a marine protected area, knowing that the waters are clean and the reefs are cared for.
Aerial view of the famous Whale’s Tail sandbar at Marino Ballena National Park in Uvita, a marine sanctuary where development is kept low-impact. This first marine park in Costa Rica protects coral reefs and visiting humpback whales.
Life in Uvita revolves around nature and community. Residents (including a vibrant expat population) organize beach clean-ups, volunteer for wildlife rescue programs, and partake in local eco-initiatives. There’s a strong “eco-conscious living” ethos – Uvita attracts people who value environmental stewardship and a slower pace of life. The town has solar-powered homes, eco-lodges, and even an eco-conscious hostel or two. Each year, Uvita hosts a Whale Festival celebrating marine conservation, where families gather for whale-watching tours and educational events about protecting ocean life.
Just 15 minutes south lies Ojochal, a tranquil village known for its lush surroundings and community of nature lovers. Ojochal was founded by Costa Rican families decades ago and later became home to many expat retirees drawn by its “peaceful tranquility” and focus on nature over commercial tourism. Here, you won’t find big resorts – instead, Ojochal charms visitors with its green hills, quiet beaches, and a reputation for outstanding farm-to-table restaurants (the village is often called the “culinary capital” of the southern zone). Many of these restaurants source ingredients from local organic farms and fishermen, exemplifying sustainable dining.
What truly sets Ojochal apart is how the community works together to protect the local environment. A great example is the Reserva Playa Tortuga (RPT), a non-profit biological research and education center located at the edge of Ojochal. RPT was founded by community members (including expats and locals) to protect critical habitats like mangrove wetlands and sea turtle nesting beaches. Through community-based conservation projects, they run a sea turtle rescue and hatchery program, monitor bird and crocodile populations, and provide environmental education for local children and volunteers. During nesting season, expats and Ticos alike volunteer on nightly beach patrols to ensure turtle eggs stay safe from poachers and natural threats. RPT’s motto is building environmental awareness among residents and visitors – a mission the whole village takes pride in. This hands-on conservation experience is incredibly rewarding for retirees who want to give back to nature during their golden years.
Beyond organized projects, everyday life in Ojochal and Uvita reflects sustainable living practices. Households here often engage in backyard composting, organic gardening, and rainwater harvesting (especially useful in the tropical climate). Neighbors share surplus fruit from their trees – it’s common to trade mangoes for avocados, or to gather community harvests of bananas. Both towns have access to the weekly markets in Uvita for organic produce, as well as smaller farm stands and co-ops. Many expats in the area have even started their own small-scale farms or joined local permaculture groups, finding joy in cultivating food sustainably on their property. It’s a lifestyle that keeps you active, healthy, and connected to the earth.
Socially, the communities are tight-knit and welcoming. Expats and locals mingle at beach bonfires, yoga classes, and community centers. Because so many residents share a passion for the environment, there’s a strong sense of common purpose. New arrivals will find it easy to plug into groups that do hiking, birdwatching, or river clean-ups. There are also local workshops on sustainable living – from organic farming techniques to natural building methods – often led by long-time residents eager to share knowledge. This supportive network means that as a newcomer, you’re not only moving to a beautiful place but also joining a community of people who care about the planet and each other.
Culture of Sustainability: “Pura Vida” in Action
Costa Rica’s environmental leadership isn’t just about policies and projects – it’s deeply rooted in the culture and mindset of its people. The famous slogan “pura vida” (meaning “pure life”) is more than a phrase; it encapsulates an appreciation for life’s simple joys and a respect for nature. In day-to-day life, Ticos (Costa Ricans) demonstrate this through small acts like conserving water, keeping communities clean, and teaching their children about wildlife and ecology from a young age.
Education is a key part of the culture of sustainability. Costa Rica boasts a 99% literacy rate and dedicates significant resources to education (the country famously abolished its army in 1948 to invest in schools instead). Environmental education is woven into school curriculums. For example, local schools in areas like Ojochal and Uvita place a strong emphasis on environmental awareness and sustainability in their programs. It’s common for students to take field trips to national parks, plant trees on Arbor Day, or participate in beach cleanups. This means the next generation of Costa Ricans – and the children of expat families – grow up as true stewards of the environment.
Community events and traditions also reflect green values. Many towns have earned the Bandera Azul (Blue Flag) award – a national program that certifies communities for cleanliness and sustainability efforts (from proper waste management to protecting rivers and beaches). When you visit a Blue Flag beach in Costa Rica, you’ll notice how pristine it is; locals take pride in keeping it that way. During holidays and fiestas, you might see parades where children dress up as trees, animals, or water droplets to celebrate Earth Day or World Water Day – an adorable reminder of how ingrained nature is in the national identity.
For expats and retirees, immersing in this culture can be a delightful and meaningful experience. You’ll find that living sustainably comes naturally when everyone around you values it. Neighbors might swap tips on solar panel installers or invite you to join a community garden project. Rather than feeling like sacrifices, eco-friendly habits (like sorting your recyclables or walking instead of driving for short errands) become simply the way things are done – and with everyone doing it together, it creates a positive, “we’re in this together” atmosphere.
There are also tangible health and lifestyle benefits to this green way of life. Multiple studies and indices have noted that Costa Rica ranks high in happiness and wellness. The country regularly tops the Happy Planet Index, a measure of sustainable well-being. Residents enjoy low stress and high quality of life, thanks in part to the strong community bonds and natural environment around them. As one expat-focused publication observed, “the unhurried pace, strong sense of community, and proximity to nature contribute to reduced stress levels, better mental health, and an overall higher quality of life” in Costa Rica. Retirees often find they become more active – whether it’s swimming, hiking, or gardening year-round – and they feel invigorated by the climate and scenery. Access to fresh organic food, clean air, and outdoor recreation keeps one healthy in body and spirit. It’s not uncommon to meet expatriates in their 60s or 70s who say they feel younger since moving to Costa Rica, crediting the natural lifestyle and friendly community for their renewed vigor.
A Green Haven for Expats and Retirees
Relocating to Costa Rica means embracing a country that has made sustainable living a national project and a personal journey for its people. From the macro level – a government that runs on renewables and protects wild forests – to the micro level – neighbors who choose reusable bags and grow their own veggies – Costa Rica is leading by example. It offers modern amenities and political stability alongside unspoiled nature and a gentle pace of life. The southern communities of Ojochal and Uvita illustrate how welcoming and fulfilling a sustainable lifestyle can be, with expats and locals coming together to live well while doing good for the planet.
Choosing Costa Rica as your new home means you don’t have to compromise on comfort to live according to your values. You can enjoy high-quality healthcare and infrastructure in a country that also encourages you to wake up with the sunrise, take a beach walk to watch scarlet macaws flutter overhead, and chat with friendly vendors at the farmer’s market about how this season’s mango crop is extra sweet. Every day offers a chance to connect with nature – be it a weekend birdwatching trip, volunteering to plant trees in the local reserve, or simply savoring a cup of local coffee while listening to the rain nourish the jungle around you.
In Costa Rica, the environment isn’t an afterthought; it’s central to the “pura vida” lifestyle that so many expats fall in love with. The country’s leadership in sustainability means that by moving here, you’re not just improving your own quality of life – you’re also joining a community committed to a better future for the whole planet. For those seeking a retirement or new chapter of life that is rich in natural beauty, wellness, and purpose, Costa Rica truly is a green haven. In the words of one admirer, Costa Rica “stands as a model of a country that has built its brand around its environmentalism,” proving that economic growth and ecological stewardship can go hand in hand. Come and experience this remarkable place for yourself – a nation where sustainable living is not only possible, but celebrated every single day.
Enjoy your journey toward pura vida!
Sources: Costa Rica’s sustainability leadership and statistics are documented by organizations and news outlets such as Reuters, the Thomson Reuters Foundation, The Tico Times, Climate Action Tracker, and Costa Rica’s own expat and tourism resources, among others. The examples from Ojochal and Uvita are drawn from local community reports and real estate guides that highlight their eco-conscious lifestyle. All cited material is referenced to demonstrate the factual foundation of Costa Rica’s environmental achievements and culture.
