As in Ireland, cattle rearing in Costa Rica is marginal at best. Costa Rica has consistently been ranked among the happiest countries on Earth, according to the HPI. A hummingbird takes a rest in one of Costa Rica's protected forestsWhile Costa Rica’s population is almost identical in size to Ireland’s, the similarities end when it comes to climate impacts. Costa Rica accounts for just over 8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually, or 1.5 tonnes per capita. Today, more than one quarter of the entire land area of Costa Rica is designated as national parks and protected areas.

Source: The Irish Times March 05, 2026 18:05 UTC