Chiquita has extended its protection of Costa Rica’s Nogal reserve for another ten years, demonstrating the company’s commitment to biodiversity and sustainable practices. This commitment marks the 20-year anniversary of the reserve. This extension has been approved by the Costa Rican government by means of a recent executive decree.
The Nogal Reserve was created in 2004 as a joint effort between Chiquita and its clients. It is located in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, between the Sucio River and banana plantation. The reserve comprises three forest blocks that are connected via the Nogal-La Selva Local Biological Corridor, which acts as a wildlife “highway” for long term conservation.
Chiquita has made significant contributions towards maintaining the connectivity of forests, biodiversity as well as scientific research over the last twenty years. The company has also implemented sustainability programs which enabled the conservation of over 720 vascular plants and 330 vertebrate animals within the 257 acres of the reserve.
In addition, Chiquita has aided in reforestation efforts by donating nearly 900 trees. These donations are aimed at increasing biodiversity and ensuring safe havens for wildlife. Along with planting trees, the company has also provided environmental education to over 30,000 students and farmers, enabling awareness and sustainable practices.
The local community will benefit through improved infrastructure with the construction of a school cafeteria, an open-air gymnasium, and access to a community internet library.
The company Chiquita has received accolades through the Natural Spaces category of the Blue Flag Ecological Program for Environmental Achievement for the past 12 years in a row. As noted by Chiquita’s Director of Sustainability, Peter Stedman, this additional protective measure accentuates the extensive support the company has for biodiversity. The decree enables Chiquita to continue fostering an environmentally beneficial impact while simultaneously serving as a testament to collaboration within the banana industry for biodiversity preservation.
