Alianzas sin fronteras : dos años por la gente y por el ambiente en Centroamérica

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world and recognised for its commitment and leadership in nature conservation. The Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM) is home to 60% of the country’s population with many economic sectors concentrated here. The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on already highly vulnerable communities living in the GAM.

To improve biodiversity and ecosystem services, five innovative projects were developed in San José, where more than 50 species of native flora were incorporated into the green urban fabric. Over 40 women developed capacities for the sustainable use of nature’s benefits while generating income. 20 public-private partnerships were formed and more than 19 adaptation measures were implemented that contribute to the sustainability of the productive activities in the local communities. Now, over 20,000 people enjoy wellbeing activities in the spaces that have improved their natural condition through the projects.

The way in which forest land is owned directly influences the status of the forest, its condition and the way in which it is managed. The greater the security of local forest tenure, the stronger the interest and will of the community towards its security. One of four papers commissioned by IUCN towards building a comprehensive profile on the subject of community involvement in forest management in eastern and southern Africa, this publication addresses the function of property relations and State-people relations in matters of governance and management. The study is comparative in nature, with a continuing examination of commonality and difference in the handling of property rights in respect of rural communities.