Costa Rica has a historically agricultural economy, however the role of which is diminishing as the consequences of deforestation become more apparent. The country is now a leader in sustainable development, energy independence, and strong nationwide environmental ethic. Ecotourism is what has made this possible. It involves utilizing locations, talents, passions to make a profit through tourism, while maintaining the environment. Ecotourism also creates economic incentives for conserving and enhancing cultural diversity and biodiversity. And, it is a vehicle for empowering local communities to develop in a sustainable manner and to fight against poverty. Ours as well as other countries can learn a lot from Costa Rica from the things they recycle to the way they run their country!