We have had a good 2024, here at TAM Travel Corporation! Our team has grown exponentially, our service has exceeded expectations at every turn, and business has been good. Additionally, the achievement closest to our hearts has been our active involvement in the areas of sustainability and social responsibility.
Costa Rica is renowned worldwide for its many sustainability efforts, and as a proud Costa Rican travel company, we are proud to be part of this vital movement. Over the years, we have both created and participated in many sustainability and social responsibility projects, and adopted many new eco-friendly practices. Here’s what we have been up to this past year!
Carbon Offsetting Efforts
Through the FONAFIFO program, we proudly offset the equivalent of 192,97 metric tons of CO₂ in 2024, contributing to the reforestation of 83,9 hectares of land. This achievement is akin to the annual carbon absorption of 8,771 mature trees, highlighting the tangible impact of our actions. Additionally, by offsetting the travel for 17 press trips and agent tours, we mitigated the environmental impact of over 8606 kilometers traveled. These efforts reflect our unwavering commitment to a healthier planet.
Plastic-Free Initiatives
In 2024, we eliminated the use of 1,000 single-use plastic bottles by introducing aluminum alternatives, preventing approximately 10 kilograms of plastic waste from polluting landfills and oceans. Aluminum bottles are a game-changer—not only are they 100% recyclable, but they can also be reused endlessly without losing their properties. Fun fact: 75% of all aluminum ever produced is still in use today! With recycling consuming only 5% of the energy required to create new aluminum, we’re proud to be reducing our environmental footprint in meaningful ways.
Wildlife Conservation Awareness
Our #StopAnimalSelfies campaign made waves, raising awareness among 1 million travelers visiting Costa Rica. With studies showing that 90% of tourists are unaware of the harm caused to wildlife by selfies, we’re on a mission to educate and reverse this trend. Similarly, our #NoMeAlimentes initiative has inspired 20 local businesses and guides to join the movement, promoting responsible and respectful interactions with wildlife. Together, we’re safeguarding Costa Rica’s natural treasures.
Sustainable Transportation
Our exclusive transportation partner is setting new standards, achieving a remarkable reduction of 15% in greenhouse gas emissions through CST Elite practices. Every vehicle in their fleet meets stringent environmental standards, ensuring cleaner, safer travel for our clients and the planet. These measures underscore our commitment to sustainable tourism at every step of the journey.
Sustainable Tourism
With nearly 26% of Costa Rica’s territory protected as national parks or reserves, we ensure all our tours honor these conservation principles. Tourism contributes 9% of the nation’s GDP, making sustainable practices like ours essential to preserving both the environment and this vital industry for future generations. By championing sustainability, we’re helping Costa Rica remain the stunning, biodiverse paradise the world loves.
What a year this has been! As we embark on this brand-new adventure that 2025 will surely turn out to be, we are thrilled to have successfully left behind 2024 as a socially and environmentally responsible travel company. Here’s to a sustainable, Happy New Year!