Instead of exploiting its natural resources, the country needs to enter into new productive ventures centered on sustainability, he said. Costa Rica, a country that depends heavily on its land for its livelihood, still has managed to set aside large areas of its land as protected areas and nature preserves. The UNDP says about one-fourth of the country is dedicated to this purpose. Despite the enormous effort there are still those who profit at the price of the environment. The rain forests continue to be cut for their valuable trees such as mahogany and ironwood, said Daniel Torres, a naturalist guide for the rain forest aerial tram.
Poachers capitalize on illegal captures of tropical birds and lizards.
Even little children on the side of the dusty roads smile and sell their hand picked and exquisite orchids. The people of Costa Rica are keenly aware of the looming danger over the environment. Ecotourism and conservation are extremely hot buzz word across the country. With a host of environmental friendly packages, tourists can see nature in a kinder, gentler way. The rain forest aerial tram runs above the trees for a bird's eye view of nature's splendor without ever leaving the seat.