Hotel Belmar and Madre Tierra Farm in Monteverde have taken ecotourism to a new level.
For a third consecutive year, they have been certified as carbon neutral by the Institute of Technical Standards of Costa Rica (INTECO).
Belmar is the first hotel in Monteverde and second in Costa Rica to earn the distinction, while Madre Tierra is the country’s first integrated farm to receive the certification.
The hotel, founded since 1985, has also received a Tourism Sustainability Certificate (CST) and the Ecological Blue Flag recognition for its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.
“We are in a time where efforts to reduce and mitigate carbon emissions have become of first-order relevance in the world, and it is remarkable that, following our vision as a company, we have been pioneers in this field,” said Pedro Belmar, General Manager of Hotel Belmar.
“In the same way, we will be making even more efforts this year and the following in the fight against climate change.”
Some of the sustainable practices employed by Hotel Belmar include the use of alternative energies and their reforestation programs. In addition, both Hotel Belmar and Madre Tierra Farm participate in community projects throughout Monteverde that encourage environmental responsibility.
According to INTECO, the standard to demonstrate carbon neutrality improves a business or organization’s competitiveness by demonstrating “their commitment to environmental performance, reducing their greenhouse gas emissions.”
One of the mainstays of the Monteverde tourism scene, Hotel Belmar’s property is comprised primarily of cloud forest — including a stream, pond and waterfall – with private trails for guests. It’s also located near the entrance to Cerro Amigos, from which visitors can see both oceans and Arenal Volcano on clear days.
Madre Tierra Farm, which operates in conjunction with the hotel, offers visitors a hands-on introduction to sustainable farming and business development.
Hotel Belmar and Madre Tierra Farm also provide guided nature hikes through the Monteverde cloud forest, bird-watching tours, horseback rides and much more.
To learn more about Hotel Belmar and Madre Tierra Farm, visit their website at hotelbelmar.net.
This story was sponsored by Hotel Belmar.
