Costa Rica evaluates environmental services and flood prevention initiatives

Costa Rica is reviewing three decades of its Payment for Environmental Services (PSA) program. Established in 1997 through the National Forestry Financing Fund (FONAFIFO), the model provides financial incentives to landowners, rural producers, and indigenous communities to preserve standing forests. Legal experts note that the program, supported by Forestry Law No. 7575, integrates conservation mandates with private property rights, which is increasingly relevant for international ESG and carbon offset markets.

In a separate environmental effort, the College of Engineers and Architects (CFIA), alongside various municipalities and the National Emergency Commission (CNE), has launched the “Juguemos Limpio” national campaign. The initiative aims to mitigate flooding caused by improper solid waste management and the subsequent obstruction of storm drainage systems. The campaign seeks to foster a cultural shift regarding waste disposal to reduce community risks.