EcoGourmet is an alliance between local fishermen, restaurateurs and consumers that ensures the planet’s precious marine life is being sourced in a sustainable fashion, protecting not only the environment but also the way of life of many Costa Ricans.
High-quality seafood at a reasonable price…but what else makes EcoGourmet a worthwhile initiative?
Conservation International at Peninsula Papagayo: collaboration and awareness
Conservation International (CI) launched EcoGourmet as a pilot plan in Costa Rica, right here at Peninsula Papagayo, during a meeting of CI´s Board of Directors, when diners savored sea bass provided by Chira Island.
Chef Neptalí and the team were impressed by the quality, texture and freshness of the product and supported the project, working with San Juanillo mariners as well. These days, the restaurants at the Clubhouse at Prieta Beach serve seasonal seafood of unrivaled quality supplied by the EcoGourmet value chain.
When we spoke to José Quirós, biologist and marine program manager at Conservation International Costa Rica, the word traceability came up often. EcoGourmet´s main goal is building a sustainable value chain that is equitable and fair for all those who participate. The product needs to be traced every step of the way, from the moment it emerges from the ocean to when it reaches the consumer’s plate. Reducing the number of intermediaries along the way is key to achieving economic justice.
