Costa Rica, known for its lush biodiversity, is home to around 30 national parks that play a crucial role in preserving and protecting ecosystems. These protected areas, which include wildlife refuges and biological reserves, represent significant samples of the country’s natural wealth.
Biologist Yérali Cruz, focused on environmental interpretation and climate change activist, highlights the fundamental importance of national parks in the conservation of biodiversity. Contrary to common perception, parks do not just protect individual species, they safeguard entire ecosystems, providing species with a safe space to inhabit.
One of the most notable parks is the Corcovado National Park, which represents 2% of the country’s biodiversity. This nature sanctuary plays a crucial role in housing and protecting a wide variety of species in their natural habitat. The conservation of these spaces is not only essential for local biodiversity, but also contributes significantly to the preservation of global biodiversity, since Costa Rica is home to approximately 6% of this biological wealth.
One of the most important challenges facing national parks is maintaining an effective connection with surrounding communities. Although animals do not recognize human borders, it is crucial to educate the population about coexisting with wildlife. Parks not only act as sanctuaries for threatened species, such as tapirs, which find refuge and safety from road kill and other threats, but also play an educational role in promoting harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Costa Rica’s national parks are more than just protected areas; They are active guardians of the natural wealth of the country and the world. Their role in preserving entire ecosystems, along with continued education to communities, ensures that biodiversity continues to thrive in these wildlife sanctuaries. Each park represents an unwavering commitment to conservation, a testament to the ongoing effort to balance the coexistence of humans and nature.