Blue River Resort is an eco-tourist destination located along the north base of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, in the northwest corner of Costa Rica, which runs along the country’s central mountains. The hotel is beside the blue volcanic river Celeste and blessed with natural mineral hot springs. The location, the region and the natural hot springs continues to represent a unique opportunity to develop a one-of-a-kind project. Each feature has been thoroughly researched and is uniquely special.
It is the mission of Blue River Resort, Hot Springs and Spa to foster a unique brand of ecotourism that exposes international visitors and the children of Costa Rica to the natural wonders of the country by practicing the principles of sustainable development and at the same time operating a profitable business venture.
Blue River Resort, Hot Springs and Spa is achieving its mission by:
- Achieving and maintaining successful businesses
- Educating in true environmentalism and ecology
- Investing in children as an investment in our future
- Showcasing the natural beauty of Costa Rica
Through partnerships with children Blue River Resort desires to expose people to the importance of ecology. The result is a win-win relationship for business with respect to return on investment as well as for the environment.
There are many benefits of pursuing sustainable development, which by definition means “meeting human needs while preserving the environment so that these needs can be met not only in the present, but in the indefinite future.” A schematic of sustainable development has the social component binding both the economic development (i.e. the projects) and safe environment practices. In this way, the owners recognize that the Resort clientele will attract environmentally-minded individuals. Those attracted by the Estate will form an associated group of like-minded stakeholders who appreciate and support sustainable development. The Resort will offer hot springs, botanical gardens, butterfly gardens, bird sanctuaries and excursions to breathtaking natural landscapes. Utilizing and these amenities for commercial purposes will of necessity provide the opportunity to both showcase and be responsible for protecting the natural environment to thrive.
The staff and management have been and will continue to also be involved in the local community by supporting the schools, workforce and community association. The Company is also planning to implement a children’s program at the Resort’s expense, to bring in children from throughout Costa Rica for one day of learning about the environment and good environmental practices A camp for children that is similarly themed, will be offered to children outside Costa Rica during summer and winter holidays for a fee.
María Emilia Correa, vice president for social and environmental responsibility at Nueva Group in Costa Rica, notes “the fundamental business case question is how can sustainability help the company win market share?” (Cowe, 2002; p. 44). She then scolds, “Environmental management is like any other line of business. Be strategic!” (Cowe, 2002; p. 44). The company intends on show-casing its amenities and surroundings which, in itself, are natural wonders whilst promoting and practicing sustainable development.