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How Climate Change Threatens Costa Rica’s Peatlands

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Sunday, March 23, 2025

In Costa Rica’s Cordillera de Talamanca, a team of researchers from the Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED), Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR), and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) has uncovered a vibrant yet vulnerable world of biodiversity. Their study, titled “Flora of High-Mountain Tropical Peatlands: Threats and Management Measures, Cordillera de Talamanca, Costa Rica,” identified 67 plant species thriving in the region’s high-mountain tropical peatlands. These unique ecosystems within the Macizo de la Muerte between El Empalme and Cerro Bellavista in Tapantí National Park, span an altitude of 2,400 to 3,100 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.). The team surveyed five distinct peatlands, revealing both the richness of these habitats and the threats they face. The results painted a striking contrast. Peatlands in the Salsipuedes and Cerro Paramillo sectors, sheltered within protected areas, displayed greater floristic diversity, with a variety of plants adapted to the soggy, high-altitude conditions. However, three peatlands outside state protection—closer to the bustling Inter-American Highway—showed lower biodiversity. Researchers attribute this decline to the “edge effect,” where habitat boundaries disrupt ecosystems, and to agro-productive activities like farming that encroach on these fragile zones. Near the highway, the team observed a shift in plant life, with species requiring less water dominating the landscape—a sign of environmental stress. Peatlands, often overlooked, are vital to the Mesoamerican Hotspot, a globally recognized cradle of biodiversity. Beyond harboring unique flora, they act as natural sponges, storing water and carbon, and serve as sensitive barometers of human influence. The study pinpointed climate change and anthropogenic pressures, such as land development, as major risks. With 40.3% of the inventoried species identified as ecologically significant—either as keystone species supporting other life or as biogeographical rarities—the stakes for conservation are high. Looking ahead, the researchers aim to broaden their exploration across the Cordillera de Talamanca, hoping to gather more data to shape effective management strategies. Their work underscores an urgent call to action: preserving these highland ecosystems is not just about saving plants, but about safeguarding a delicate balance that benefits the region and beyond. As climate pressures mount, these findings could guide Costa Rica—and the world—in protecting nature’s unsung heroes. The post How Climate Change Threatens Costa Rica’s Peatlands appeared first on The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate.

These unique ecosystems within the Macizo de la Muerte between El Empalme and Cerro Bellavista in Tapantí National Park, span an altitude of 2,400 to 3,100 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.). The team surveyed five distinct peatlands, revealing both the richness of these habitats and the threats they face.

The results painted a striking contrast. Peatlands in the Salsipuedes and Cerro Paramillo sectors, sheltered within protected areas, displayed greater floristic diversity, with a variety of plants adapted to the soggy, high-altitude conditions. However, three peatlands outside state protection—closer to the bustling Inter-American Highway—showed lower biodiversity.

Researchers attribute this decline to the “edge effect,” where habitat boundaries disrupt ecosystems, and to agro-productive activities like farming that encroach on these fragile zones. Near the highway, the team observed a shift in plant life, with species requiring less water dominating the landscape—a sign of environmental stress.

Peatlands, often overlooked, are vital to the Mesoamerican Hotspot, a globally recognized cradle of biodiversity. Beyond harboring unique flora, they act as natural sponges, storing water and carbon, and serve as sensitive barometers of human influence. The study pinpointed climate change and anthropogenic pressures, such as land development, as major risks. With 40.3% of the inventoried species identified as ecologically significant—either as keystone species supporting other life or as biogeographical rarities—the stakes for conservation are high.

Looking ahead, the researchers aim to broaden their exploration across the Cordillera de Talamanca, hoping to gather more data to shape effective management strategies. Their work underscores an urgent call to action: preserving these highland ecosystems is not just about saving plants, but about safeguarding a delicate balance that benefits the region and beyond. As climate pressures mount, these findings could guide Costa Rica—and the world—in protecting nature’s unsung heroes.

The post How Climate Change Threatens Costa Rica’s Peatlands appeared first on The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate.

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Zeldin says he can 'absolutely' assure public EPA deregulation efforts won’t harm environment

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin said he can “absolutely” assure the public that the various deregulation efforts undergone by the agency will not harm the environment. Zeldin joined CBS News’s “Face the Nation” on Sunday, where he was asked if he could ensure the deregulation wouldn’t have an adverse impact. “Absolutely,” he replied. “We have to both protect the environment and grow the economy.” Zeldin argued that it’s what the American people are demanding out of the Trump administration. He criticized Biden-era regulations that were “targeting entire industries.” “When the American public went to vote last November, they were talking about economic concerns, about struggling to make ends meet. That includes the cost of being able to heat their home,” he said. “The choice of whether or not to be able to heat their home or fill up their fridge with groceries or afford prescription medication.” Zeldin’s remarks come about a month after the Trump administration unveiled a list of climate and pollution regulations they were looking to dismantle. Under the reversed regulations are some of the Biden administration’s most championed measures, including increasing electric vehicles and quickly closing coal mines. The Trump administration said it was considering rolling back regulations on the neurotoxic mercury from power plans and general air pollution limits for soot. It will also reconsider that climate change poses a threat to the public, laying regulatory groundwork for future climate action. The agency also indicated that it would be closing offices dedicated to fighting pollution in underserved and minority communities. Zeldin said last month that the deregulation efforts would make it easier for Americans to buy a car and heat their homes. Environmentalists have sounded the alarm over the administration’s plans, but Zeldin remained confident that the public and environment would not be negatively impacted. Zeldin noted that there will be a process for public comment and he encourages the public to “weigh in” when they have that opportunity. “I have a zero tolerance for any waste and abuse. It is my duty to ensure that I’m an exceptional steward of tax dollars,” Zeldin later said.

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Tackling Climate Change Must Be Job Number One

This Earth Day, on April 22, you can exercise your power. The wellbeing of our planet and its people is at stake.

Amid the historic and sweeping cuts to federal agencies and programs being carried out by the Trump Administration, one truth has been overlooked: If we’re serious about cutting waste and protecting public funds, we must confront climate change head-on. 2024 was a disaster for the planet and its people. According to NASA, it was the warmest year since temperatures began being recorded in 1880. In the United States alone there were twenty-seven climate and weather events that resulted in at least a billion dollars in damages—second only to 2023, with twenty-eight such events. These events—wildfires, floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes—are becoming the norm, and they’re financially devastating. In January, tens of thousands of acres and more than 16,000 structures burned in southern California. Last month, more than 150 tornadoes tore across the central and southeastern United States, and, this month, historic floods submerged parts of the Midwest and South. In the parts of the United States at higher risk for climate-related extreme weather events, insurance claims are increasing in cost and frequency. Not surprisingly, these high-risk areas are also now seeing the highest increase in cancellations for failure to pay premiums and nonrenewals by the insurance companies. Without insurance, homeowners may not be able to rebuild when disaster strikes. And climate change isn’t the only escalating crisis. The world is also drowning in plastic. On September 5, 2024—Plastic Overshoot Day—the world exceeded its capacity to manage plastic waste. An estimated 220 million tons of plastic are projected to be produced this year alone, and 66 percent of people live in areas where plastic waste exceeds waste management capacity. Meanwhile, new research shows just how dangerous plastics are to human health. Microplastics have been found in human brains, and the World Wildlife Fund estimates that we may be ingesting up to five grams of plastic each week—the weight of a credit card. Plastics are now linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, impaired fertility, and cognitive development issues. Wildlife, too, is suffering from entanglement, starvation, and habitat loss. Here’s the hopeful part: We already have the tools and the power to change this. EARTHDAY.ORG, the network created by the original organizers of the first Earth Day in 1970, is still leading the charge with our campaign, “Our Power, Our Planet.” The goal is to help individuals, cities, and communities act on the environmental challenges of today. The economic upside of environmental action is massive. New solutions to our current environmental crisis rest in the hands of the people. This Earth Day, on April 22, you can exercise your power. Demonstrate to our leaders in government and business that we are still here, we are a witness to their actions, and we will hold them accountable to do right by our planet and its people. As consumers, we can choose plastic-free products and demand a reduction and transition in the use of plastics from businesses, while at the same time pressuring government leaders to reduce plastic production globally to end the use of toxic ingredients and to improve waste management systems. We have the collective power not only to protect our planet but also to improve lives and livelihoods. The link between greenhouse gas emissions and climate change is now scientifically indisputable. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, 90 percent of global electricity can and should come from renewable sources by 2050. The transition also promises cleaner air, up to thirty million new jobs, and stronger energy independence. Transitioning to clean energy, reducing plastic waste, and increasing resilience to extreme weather are among the most fiscally responsible actions governments can take. This Earth Day, we must recognize that efficiency isn’t just about cutting—it’s about investing in solutions that protect people and our infrastructure. True government efficiency means reducing risk in order to cut costs—not paying billions each year to clean up after preventable disasters. This column was produced for Progressive Perspectives, a project of The Progressive magazine, and distributed by Tribune News Service.

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Australia opposition leader clarifies he believes in climate change after debate

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Australian opposition leader Peter Dutton has clarified he believes in climate change after facing backlash for comments made during an election debate on Wednesday night.Dutton and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese were asked about the increasing impact of climate change, to which Dutton replied he would "let scientists and others pass that judgment".He had previously said that flooding and natural disasters were "part of the history of our state of this country". The comments generated outrage from climate groups and mockery from Albanese."I believe in climate change, and that it is a reality" Dutton said while campaigning on Monday. During Wednesday's debate, Dutton responded to the moderator's question on whether flooding and natural disasters were getting worse by saying, "I don't know because I'm not a scientist". "I can't tell you whether the temperature has risen in Thargomindah because of climate change or the water levels are up," he added.Meanwhile Albanese, who had said Dutton's words showed "no acceptance of the science of climate change" continued mocking his opponent on Thursday, asking "does he believe in gravity?" Environmental organisations have reacted to Dutton's debate remarks with dismay.Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie told the Guardian "it's outrageous for a senior political leader to be so out of touch that they claim they "don't know" the risks Australians are facing."A report from the non-profit released earlier this month stated one in 23 properties across the country were found to be at high risk from climate change.Australian Conservation Foundation Chief Executive Kelly O'Shanassy called Dutton's words "a serious concern" in an interview with the Canberra Times, adding that "the next parliament is the last parliament that can get Australia's massive contribution to climate change under control."Albanese was also questioned on his climate policy during the debate, though for different reasons. The prime minister has championed renewable energy throughout his time in office, but has faced backlash for rising power bills.Asked when fees would fall, the prime minister did not directly reply. Instead, he stressed renewables were the "cheapest form of power".In March, Labor announced it would extend a relief system for the bills, providing a further automatic $150AUD ($95;£72) rebate to households and small businesses. The hour-long debate also saw the two party leaders pressed on other hot button issues for Australia including housing and foreign policy, in particular Australia's relationship to the US.

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Ohio grid disparities leave some areas with older, outage-prone equipment

Ohio consumer and environmental advocates are calling on state regulators to address disparities within FirstEnergy’s grid after a recent report found disadvantaged communities are more likely to rely on older, more outage-prone equipment. Areas defined as disadvantaged under the Biden administration’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool were twice as likely to have low-voltage circuits compared to other parts of FirstEnergy’s Ohio territory, according to the study by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council. Equipment was also generally older and had less capacity for normal and overload situations. The results reflect historical patterns of underinvestment in disadvantaged communities, the report says, but the full scope of the problem — including across Ohio’s other utilities — is unclear due to the lack of information from utilities and regulators. “The public availability of any utility data is very, very limited in Ohio,” said report author Shay Banton, a regulatory program engineer and energy justice policy advocate for the Interstate Renewable Energy Council. The Ohio Environmental Council submitted the report as part of FirstEnergy’s pending rate case before the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio and is asking regulators to address the topic in an evidentiary hearing set for May 5. The state of the local grid matters when it comes to the reliability of customers’ electric service, their ability to add distributed renewable energy resources like rooftop solar, and a community’s potential to attract business investments that could improve its economic conditions. Regulated electric utilities file reliability reports each spring that focus on two commonly used metrics. The system average interruption frequency index, or SAIFI, shows how many outages occurred per customer. The customer average interruption duration index, or CAIDI, measures the average length of time for restoring service to customers who lose power. The annual reports also list factors involved in outages, with breakouts for transmission-related service problems and major events. Major events such as severe weather are considered statistical outliers that don’t count for calculating whether utilities meet their company-specific standards for CAIDI and SAIFI. While weather accounted for the majority of time Ohioans went without power last year, equipment failures also triggered thousands of outages. For the ninth year in a row, at least one Ohio utility company failed to meet reliability standards, reports filed this month show. Both AEP Ohio and FirstEnergy’s Toledo Edison missed their marks for the average time before power is restored for customers who experience outages. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio also collects data on the worst-performing circuits. Individual circuits serve anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand customers. However, the state doesn’t post these reports online or disclose the circuit’s exact locations, which could be used to show whether they are concentrated in disadvantaged communities. The SAIFI and CAIDI metrics used by state regulators did not show significant disparities between disadvantaged neighborhoods and other areas in FirstEnergy’s territory. But Banton said those reliability metrics rely on averages for large groups, which can obscure disparities. They said that utilities should also be required to publicly report the number of customers experiencing frequent service interruptions and the number of customers who faced long outages. Utilities in Ohio tend to be reactive in dealing with circuit problems, Banton said. Communities can face longer outages if utilities wait for equipment to fail before replacing it. Instead, Banton wants utilities’ capital investments to address current disparities and then prevent them from recurring in the future.

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How Climate Change Threatens Costa Rica’s Peatlands

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How Climate Change Threatens Costa Rica’s Peatlands

Related News

Zeldin says he can 'absolutely' assure public EPA deregulation efforts won’t harm environment

Tackling Climate Change Must Be Job Number One

Australia opposition leader clarifies he believes in climate change after debate

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Suggested Viewing

Crossing the Divide

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Join us to forgea sustainable future

sign up for our mailing list to stay informed on the latest films and environmental headlines.

Join us to forge
a sustainable future