From Banana Giant to Ecotourism: How Costa Rica’s Southern Zone Rebuilt Its Economy

**Costa Rica’s Southern Zone Transitions from Banana Monoculture to Ecotourism**

SAN JOSÉ, Costa Rica – Forty‑two years after the United Fruit Company withdrew its operations from Costa Rica, communities in the country’s Southern Zone are moving away from a banana‑based economy toward a model that emphasizes sustainable tourism and biodiversity conservation.

Local leaders have organized initiatives to protect mangrove forests, rivers, and wildlife habitats. These efforts are part of a broader shift in mindset that places education and environmental stewardship at the center of economic development in the region.

The transformation reflects a growing national trend in Costa Rica to diversify its economy while preserving natural resources, with ecotourism emerging as a key sector for future growth.

Article source: thecostaricanews.com | Image credit: The Costa Rica News