A new impetus in “geo-literacy” in the national volcanic parks of Costa Rica and surrounding sectors for better risk management

Abstract

In Costa Rica, all the large volcanoes have been converted into national parks, which has limited human occupation and productive activities in its closest areas. The country has been promoted worldwide as an important tourist destination due to its biodiversity and commitment to conservation, increasing tourism and people's exposure to different volcanic hazards. Public universities and the National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Attention (CNE) carry out informative and educational activities for the population. In 2020, the CNE promoted a ‘geoliteracy’ campaign, through the design and installation of signs with preventive and geo-educational information on volcanoes in Spanish and English. As of December 2022, more than 250 signs had been installed in collaboration with National Parks, the Costa Rican Electricity Institute, communities, private companies, the tourism sector, and the Community Aqueduct and Sewer Management Associations. These actions have generated a sense of empowerment and belonging in the actors involved. The actions are linked to the National Law on Emergencies and Risk Prevention, the National Risk Management Policy (2016-2030) and the National Risk Management Plan 2021-2025.

Keywords

• risk management
• tourism
• volcanic national parks
• geoliteracy
• information design
• costa rica