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Compliance Program Implementation Crucial for Companies in Costa Rica

San José, Costa Rica - As companies continue to prioritize environmental matters, implementing an effective compliance program has become increasingly important in Costa Rica. Environmental compliance is not just a legal requirement, but a valuable opportunity for businesses to generate value and ensure their operations are sustainable.

What is Compliance Program?

A compliance program encompasses both the legal framework regulating environmental issues and risk prevention and management actions related to a company’s operations. In recent years, there has been a significant shift in international organizations recognizing the right to a healthy environment as a human right. This recognition is not limited to Costa Rica, but also applies globally.

Global Recognition of Environmental Rights

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights’ Advisory Opinion No. 23-17 set an important precedent by recognizing environmental rights as autonomous and individual human rights. This paradigm change highlights the importance of integrating environmental compliance into company operations, going beyond mere legal obligations.

Compliance Program Benefits in Costa Rica

In Costa Rica, companies are facing increasingly stringent regulations aimed at meeting sustainable development objectives. The implementation of an effective compliance program allows businesses to:

  • Evaluate their status against legal obligations
  • Identify and manage risks
  • Propose prevention and monitoring actions
  • Incorporate sustainability elements into internal policies and procedures

Value Generation through Compliance Program

Environmental compliance is not just a duty, but a valuable opportunity for companies to generate value. A well-implemented program can:

  • Prevent involvement in complaints and legal proceedings
  • Protect reputations
  • Provide advantages when participating in commercial and governmental alliances

Competitive Advantage

In Costa Rica, the implementation of an environmental compliance model or program positions companies among their competitors and makes it easier to manage operations, anticipate risks, and consolidate a positive image in national and international markets. Having such a program also allows businesses to demonstrate good performance in the event of being involved in complaints or proceedings for environmental damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, any company operating in Costa Rica can benefit from reviewing and implementing an environmental compliance model. We invite readers to evaluate their organization’s environmental compliance status and enjoy the advantages that its implementation can bring.