welcome to our project for 2025.
THE Waste Reduction and Recycling Program.

OUR WORK.
We are a group of International Relations students from ULACIT working in collaboration with the foundation Una Mano para Costa Rica to implement the Waste Reduction and Recycling Program in Matina, Limón. We created this project because we believe it is essential to promote sustainable waste management practices within the community.
Community Engagement
We believe that real change starts with the community. Through community engagement, we’ll work closely with the residents of Matina to understand their needs, share ideas, and build a collective vision for a cleaner, greener future.
Educational Workshops
Knowledge is power! Our educational workshops will equip residents with the tools and skills they need to reduce waste, recycle effectively, and get aware of the use of pesticides. These hands-on sessions will cover topics like proper waste separation and sustainable farming practices to reduce pesticide use.
DATA COLLECTION
To measure our impact and guide future efforts, we’ll conduct data collection throughout the project. This includes tracking waste reduction metrics, monitoring recycling rates, and gathering feedback from the community. By analyzing this data, we can ensure the project’s success and make informed decisions for long-term sustainability.
OUR WHY.
The need for this project arises from two critical issues affecting Matina, Limón: poor waste management practices and the environmental and health impacts of pesticide use in pineapple plantations.
Need for a Recycling Program:
Matina, like many communities in Costa Rica, faces challenges with waste management. Limited access to recycling facilities and a lack of awareness about proper waste disposal have led to increased littering, pollution, and strain on local landfills.
Caution on Pesticide Use in Piñeras:
Pineapple production is a major industry in the Limón region, but it often relies heavily on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. These chemicals can contaminate soil, water sources, and ecosystems, posing risks to human health and biodiversity.
OUR PARTNERS
Dale Una Mano is a Costa Rican foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life for vulnerable communities through sustainable development projects. With a focus on education, health, and environmental initiatives, Dale Una Mano has a proven track record of empowering communities and fostering positive change. Their expertise in community engagement and local development makes them an ideal partner for ensuring the success and sustainability of the Waste Reduction and Recycling Program in Matina.
ULACIT, (our university) is one of Costa Rica’s leading private universities, known for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. Being students from ULACIT, we think that, The university’s focus on sustainable development aligns perfectly with the goals of the Waste Reduction and Recycling Program.