The leading eco-luxury wellness resort in Costa Rica, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, recently published its official Sustainability Report for 2020–2021, outlining comprehensive strategies across three core areas: environmental management, corporate social responsibility and organizational culture. The report highlights how Tabacón has balanced economic responsibility toward its community, staff and suppliers while protecting, regenerating and promoting the value of its natural resources. These documented efforts set the stage for continued sustainable development in the years ahead.
© Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
“We are honored to share our Sustainability Report and showcase how the Tabacón family faced the enormous challenges of 2020/21 together with care and optimism, and sustainability as top of mind in each and every one of our actions,” said Marcel Stittner, general manager of Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa. “These actions have built a strong foundation as we continue our journey toward offering carbon-neutral stays in the short term and achieving full carbon neutrality for the resort by the end of 2023, while enhancing mindful wellness offerings and promoting diversity and inclusion. As we continue to see steady year-over-year business growth, we are committed to leveraging that success for the benefit of our community, guests and beloved Costa Rica.”
Sustainability is central to the resort’s operations, and the report details measurable progress in reduction strategies achieved through operational efficiencies and targeted investments. In the reporting period, Tabacón exceeded its goal of a 5 percent reduction in energy consumption, reaching a 9 percent decrease relative to 2019, the last comparable year. Over two years the resort completed a full conversion to LED lighting and launched a Solar Energy Project with the installation of 836 photovoltaic panels.
© Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Tabacón’s water supply comes entirely from on‑property natural springs, and the resort harnesses geothermal heat from the Arenal volcano to provide hot water. In 2021 the resort implemented a water‑use monitoring system to improve efficiency and accountability. Recent renovations to the main pool area emphasized downstream water protection and the use of native landscaping to support local ecosystems.
Set on 353 hectares of rainforest with development limited to just seven hectares, the property remains largely wild and supports an ongoing rewilding program. Since 2009, the Plant A Tree initiative has helped restore habitat with more than 1,500 trees planted, reinforcing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience across the estate.
For the full Sustainability Report, please refer to the resort’s official publication.