QCOSTARICA – President Luis Guillermo Solis says hydroelectric power plants in the Pauare and Savegre rivers are a no no, signing an executive order banning the development for the next 25 years.
The environmental protection measure covers power projects with a generating capacity of 500 kilowatts or more, keeping the rivers clean and free of barriers.
The aim is to protect natural resources, says Casa Presidencial.
“Costa Rica’s development must take into account energy, environmental, economic and social factors. For the state, it is essential to manage the use of natural resources, but also their protection; therefore, it is important to make decisions that allow us to maintain this balance,” Solis said in a statement.
The Pacuare River rises in the Talamanca Mountain Range and flows into the Caribbean slope, after about 108 kilometers. The Pacuare is a model for adventure travel.
Te Savegre covers the cantons of Dota, Tarrazú, Perez Zeledon and Quepos with an area of 41 kilometers, to lead the side Pacific and is home to one of the country’s most environmentally diverse basis, where 47 different ecosystems have been identified.
The executive order only applies to new development, rights acquired prior are not affected.
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