Alvaro Umaña
“The G20 has proven that it can be nimble and take action on economic issues, so we are looking to these countries to do the same for the climate.”
Who Am I?
Alvaro was born in Costa Rica in the early 1950s. His interest in the natural world grew, and he studied physics, environmental pollution control, economics and environmental engineering in science. He later became a politician and environmentalist.
In the 1980s, Costa Rica had one of the worst deforestation rates anywhere in the world, resulting in forests covering less than 25% of the country. In 1986, Alvaro Umaña became the first Minister of the Environment.
What Am I Known For?
Although he was now an important man in politics, his humility kept him grounded and focused. He began to make changes, and to do so, he realised that he needed to work with local people rather than imposing his ideas on them. He made special efforts to work with the indigenous people (those who lived on the land originally) and others involved. His optimism for change saw him introduce financial incentives to farmers and landholders in the form of grants and loans. To get these, they had to allow forestry on their holdings to stand for five years. It was a hugely successful plan, with 97% of those who received loans either protecting or restoring the trees on their land.
As the country began to be reforested again, he asked foreign governments to help. The Netherlands, for example, were owed money from Costa Rica. Alvaro asked them if they would engage in a debt-for-nature swap – and they agreed!
Eco-tourists now visit Costa Rica to enjoy the diversity of birds, mammals and plant life. Forests now cover 57% of the country.
How About You?
As a class, discuss what more should be done to protect and renew your local environment.
Look out for the documentary Paved Paradise. It includes information about Costa Rica’s transformation and celebrates the success of Alvaro Umaña’s work.
Other Amazing People (you can find them on the website)
Rachel Carson was one of the first people to warn about environmental damage and you can read her story on our site.
Other Useful Resources (available on the website)
If you are interested in exploring more about humility, please check out our Teacher’s Guide to Humility.
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Photo: Goldman Environmental Prize