Netflix Documentary Explores Costa Rica’s Nicoya Blue Zone
The upcoming Netflix documentary “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” focuses on the lives of 58 centenarians in Nicoya, Costa Rica, one of only five confirmed global Blue Zones where residents commonly live past 100. The concept of Blue Zones was pioneered by Dan Buettner and National Geographic to identify regions where inhabitants share lifestyle factors that enable extended health spans. The series provides an inside look at the elders’ daily lives and examines specific dietary, social, and environmental elements researchers have linked to longevity in Nicoya and other Blue Zones worldwide. Costa Ricans hope the show will inspire viewers to incorporate lessons from Nicoya, where good health and tight-knit community are integral parts of a slower, family-oriented pace of life.
Costa Rica’s President Meeting Biden at White House
On August 29th, President Rodrigo Chaves of Costa Rica will meet with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House. The White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the two leaders will work to deepen and strengthen the partnership between the United States and Costa Rica. Discussions will focus on migration, security, democracy, and economic cooperation. As Costa Rica is currently facing a large influx of migrants, especially Venezuelans seeking asylum, migration policy is expected to be a prominent topic. Regional security challenges, such as the flow of drugs from South America to the U.S. and Europe, will also be discussed. This meeting presents an opportunity for the U.S. to strengthen ties with one of its closest allies in Central America and provide stability in the region.
Costa Rica Coast Guard Seizes 2 Tons of Cocaine in Semi-Submersible
The Costa Rican Coast Guard intercepted a semi-submersible vessel carrying more than two tons of cocaine. The vessel, made of fiberglass, was stopped 200 kilometers offshore from the Osa Peninsula. Two Ecuadorians and a Colombian, who were traveling in the vessel, were detained by the authorities. The drugs were valued at $17 million and were most likely destined to be stored in Costa Rica and then re-exported or distributed by the local mafia to be sold on the domestic market. This is the second interception of its kind this year, as a similar vessel was intercepted in January with 1,990 packages of cocaine. The two Nicaraguans and one Costa Rican aboard were arrested and are currently in prison. The Coast Guard director has stated that these semi-submersibles are used for trips to South America, Central America, and Mexico and that the Colombian navy captures around 20 such vessels per year.
Costa Rica Permits Agrochemicals to Combat Destructive Crazy Ants
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock in Costa Rica has announced the temporary approval of certain agrochemicals for use on sugarcane crops in response to infestations of crazy ants. The invasive ant species has been wreaking havoc across parts of the country, posing a major threat to sugarcane as well as wildlife. Minister of Agriculture Victor Julio Carvajal stated that the insecticides will be used as bait targeting crazy ant nests in sugarcane fields, and will be in effect through December. The measure aims to protect the livelihoods of farmers, however, environmental advocates have raised concerns about impacts on soil, waterways and non-target species. Sugarcane is a major agricultural industry in Costa Rica, with approximately 200,000 acres planted. The search for more sustainable, long-term solutions must continue before the economic and ecological costs grow even higher.
