World’s Leading Sustainable Hotel or Resort Development
This award recognizes Peninsula Papagayo’s groundbreaking approach to sustainable tourism. The peninsula’s master plan protects more than 70 percent of the land from development, safeguarding one of the world’s last tropical dry forests and surrounding marine habitats. Projects such as Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the Bahías Residences by Antoine Predock, and the forthcoming Papagayo Park exemplify regenerative design, minimal land impact, and responsible resource stewardship.
Peninsula Papagayo has achieved measurable progress in biodiversity conservation and resource efficiency, including the largest coral restoration project in CR, a 51 percent reduction in golf course water use from 2023 to 2024, ISO 50001 certification for energy management, and the integration of AI-driven food waste reduction technology. These efforts reflect a long-term commitment to innovation and environmental guardianship.
World’s Leading Sustainable Community Empowerment Program
The second award recognizes the impact of Peninsula Papagayo’s community initiatives, particularly the Creciendo Juntos Las Huertas Home Gardens project, which began during the pandemic, and has since empowered 138 families across 13 communities to grow their own produce, improve nutrition, and generate income. More than half of the participants are women leading their households and transforming local food systems.
“I didn’t know what a vegetable garden was at first, but I fell in love with it. It’s helped me mentally, financially, and brought my family closer,” shared participant Marco Peña
“These recognitions reinforce our belief that purpose and progress go hand in hand,” said Francesca Poddie, Chief Operating Officer. “Peninsula Papagayo is not only a destination to visit, but a destination to believe in.”
As Peninsula Papagayo celebrates these achievements, it continues to inspire a new era of responsible luxury—demonstrating that tourism can be a powerful force for environmental renewal and community well-being.
