In a ceremony celebrated this Sunday, February 24, the Government of Costa Rica launched the National Decarbonization Plan 2018-2050, which sets the bases of a green economy to face the challenges of climate change.

The activity gathered over 300 national and international personalities, at the sculptures garden of the Costa Rican Art Museum and under the conduction of Christiana Figueres, prominent world figure in the battle against climate change.

“The vision of decarbonizing the national economy is a country project that motivates us to innovation, creating jobs geared towards energy independence, a solid economy and clean cities for all citizens. Costa Rica takes once again a position of international leadership”, stated Figueres.

“This is the reason that our generation has the challenge to advance towards a decarbonized world. Costa Rica is ready and prepared to lead this commitment with the planet”, commented President of Costa Rica, Carlos Alvarado.

The plan is based in four areas: Transportation and Sustainable Mobility; Energy, Sustainable Construction and Industry; Comprehensive Residue Management; Agriculture, Change and Use of Land and Solutions Based on Nature.

Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, Minister of Environment went over the different transverse strategies that are required to consolidate change, social, financial, environmental and technological considerations; the modernization of institutionalization; fiscal frame; a comprehensive education system, among others.

First Lady, Claudia Dobles, commented on the accomplishments of the country so far, with renewable energy and low deforestation rates.
“We will be an example to the world that it is possible to be a green and decarbonized country, while at the same time producing richness. A decarbonized country is also a prosperous country, that generates jobs, economic growth and wellness for everyone. The different initiatives that Costa Rica is taking and the rest of the world, demonstrate that it is possible”, said President Alvarado.

Electrification of public transportation, the transformation of the agriculture sector, modernization of the state refinery (RECOPE) and the green fiscal reform are some of the priorities included in the plan.