Costa Rica is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Despite its small size, it is home to around 5% of the world’s known plant and animal species. In terms of sustainability, the nation is a global leader in renewable energy production; it generates more than 99% of its electricity from renewable sources, primarily hydropower, wind, geothermal, and solar energy. In addition, Costa Rica has implemented a range of environmental policies and initiatives to promote sustainability, including reforestation programs, wildlife protection laws, and incentives for renewable energy development. Volunteers can help contribute to these developments in the remote community of El Yaz. Although a natural paradise, villagers struggle to make ends meet. Even low-paying jobs are rare. Many residents may not live in a state of poverty, but many of them have no access to hot water, cars, etc. Volunteers can help the community via English teaching at public schools, maintenance of community facilities, fitting reading glasses for the elderly, constructing chicken coops for local families, upgrading local families’ homes, and more. Projects will vary depending on the number of volunteers, which projects were finished with the prior group, what priorities have changed, weather conditions, availability of supplies, and the fitness level of the participants. Additional tasks include (but are not limited to) promoting requested perma-culture gardening to locals via demonstrations, repairing pedestrian bridges, providing environmental education and conservation, painting schools, building fences, and much more. Leisure activities include nature hikes, birdwatching, coffee tasting, visiting Orosi, visiting Guayabo, and more.
This trip is 7 days and costs $1,537. It is led by Globe Aware, a nonprofit organization that offers international volunteer programs that go beyond tourism. Globe Aware programs promote the immersion of participants in a unique way that also aligns with the United Nations sustainability goals. Volunteers get the chance to experience cultural awareness: acknowledging and celebrating the culture of a community, but not changing it. Participants will also work alongside the host community and help teach and learn skills with the concept of promoting sustainable practices.