Costa Rica National Parks Face Threats
Costa Rica's national parks are struggling due to budget cuts, mass tourism, and climate change, which threatens conservation, according to a UNED study.
The country's national parks and protected areas face growing threats from budget shortfalls, surging visitor numbers, and climate shifts, as reported by the Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED).
- Budget cuts reduce patrols and monitoring, leading to increased illegal activities like poaching, logging, and unauthorized land use.
- Mass tourism puts pressure on conservation work and risks the country's renowned biodiversity.
- Climate change further exacerbates these pressures.
Costa Rica relies heavily on income from park visits, which also supports local economies.
According to Allan Fernández, head of conservation policy at UNED, the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) operates with limited funds and staff, weakening conservation work.
Author's summary: Costa Rica's national parks face threats from tourism and budget cuts.