Carlos Alvarado Quesada: We need to change how we talk about the environment | Forum Insight

TL;DR

Biodiversity conservation contributes to economic sustainability and job creation, highlighting the need for a change in perception and narrative to inspire action.

Transcript

we've made for example vo diversity and conservation and economical sustainable model currently it's about six percent of our GDP comes from eco tourism which provides jobs for people all around the country and we are leveraging on the 5% of the biodiversity that we have in our territory to to produce that not only conservation but making an econom... Read More

Key Insights

• 🇨🇷 Costa Rica's eco-tourism industry contributes significantly to the country's GDP and job creation.
• 🇨🇷 Native Americans in Costa Rica view the Jaguar as a symbol of a healthy ecosystem, highlighting the interdependence of species.
• 🪡 The narrative around biodiversity and conservation needs to focus on human well-being and inspire action.
• 🥺 Perceiving the environment as limitless leads to neglect and lack of conservation efforts.
• 🖐️ Communication and narrative play a vital role in engaging people and generating support for biodiversity conservation.
• 🧡 It is necessary to educate and inspire a wide range of individuals, from enthusiasts to those who are indifferent, to achieve meaningful change.
• 🌸 Climate change and biodiversity loss require urgent action and a consolidated narrative to drive conservation efforts.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does Costa Rica's eco-tourism industry contribute to its economy?

Eco-tourism in Costa Rica plays a significant role in its economy by generating about 6% of the country's GDP. It provides employment opportunities for people across the nation, supporting economic growth and development.

Q: Why do Native Americans in Costa Rica consider the Jaguar important?

Native Americans view the Jaguar as a crucial species because its presence indicates a healthy and balanced food chain. They believe that if a Jaguar is spotted, it means that the entire ecosystem is functioning properly, emphasizing the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Q: What is the main problem in perceiving the environment as something we can take for granted?

The main issue lies in the perception that natural resources, such as clean water, fertile soil, and healthy ecosystems, are infinite and guaranteed. This perception prevents individuals from recognizing the impact of their actions on the environment and the need for conservation efforts.

Q: What is the significance of communication and narrative in biodiversity conservation?

Effective communication and narrative are crucial in inspiring action for biodiversity conservation. By reaching both enthusiasts and those who are indifferent towards the environment, meaningful changes can be achieved. It is essential to educate and touch people's hearts to generate widespread support.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Costa Rica leverages its biodiversity to create an economic model based on eco-tourism, which contributes about 6% to GDP and provides jobs.

• Native Americans in Costa Rica consider the Jaguar as an indicator of a healthy ecosystem, emphasizing the interconnectedness of species in the food chain.

• The narrative around biodiversity and conservation needs to shift to highlight its importance for human well-being and inspire action.