What measures has your company taken to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations, and how does the role of the general counsel contribute to driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company? 

INCAE is a higher education school leading business, based in Central America with a global perspective. As Legal director, I have contributed to creating policies that respond to the legal framework in each of the countries where we operate, guaranteeing compliance. At INCAE we have several committees, including the Sustainability Committee, of which I am a member. Likewise, within our strategic objectives, the management that I lead, and the staff evaluate on a monthly basis, the strategic actions and goals that respond to the Institute’s Strategic Plan and that are within the legal framework, both internal and international. 

INCAE’s mission seeks to promote sustainable development, so sustainability is a guiding principle for the institution. INCAE’s current strategic plan is divided into five pillars, one of which is the Impact for Sustainability, which implies that our activities must be consistent with the theme.  We have integrated specialised courses in sustainability into our master’s degrees, with the aim of training business leaders who understand the importance of balancing economic, social and environmental goals. These courses address topics such as climate change, circular economy and responsible business strategies. They also promote the development of student clubs that address, in addition to sustainability, issues of gender equity, ethics and transparency, equipping our students with the necessary tools to implement sustainable solutions in their organisations. 

Our Center for Leadership for Competitiveness and Sustainable Development (CLACDS) has projects on topics to address the challenges of climate change, promotion of good corporate governance, social progress of communities, especially the most vulnerable and the development of sustainable enterprises. We work in collaboration with key sectors to generate transformative changes in the region. In the case of the Center for Inclusive and Sustainable Leadership (CELIS), efforts are focused on promoting gender inclusion. Our Impact Centers develop projects and initiatives aligned with the most pressing global challenges. These initiatives not only positively impact local communities but also inspire our students to lead with purpose. 

At our campus in Costa Rica, sustainability is lived daily through concrete practices. During their stay, students learn to separate and recycle their waste, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility that extends beyond the classroom. This immersive experience not only educates, but also reinforces students’ commitment to protecting the environment, as they experience how individual actions can have a significant collective impact. Finally, we have made a commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. As part of this effort, we have already carried out an exhaustive measurement of our emissions and are actively working to reduce our environmental impact. These actions reflect our leadership in promoting sustainable practices and our belief that higher education has an essential role in building a more equitable and sustainable future. 

In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently?    

In Costa Rica, the legal landscape is evolving in response to both domestic needs and global trends. Several key legal trends are standing out in the country at present. Environmental protection, labor reform, business regulation, and judicial transparency are among the most important trends influencing the country’s legal landscape. 

It is widely recognized for its environmental leadership, and this is reflected in its legal frameworks. There is a growing focus on environmental sustainability, conservation, and climate change mitigation. This includes stronger enforcement of environmental regulations with a robust environmental protection framework, including laws on biodiversity, waste management, and water conservation. There has been increasing scrutiny of businesses’ environmental impacts, including demands for more stringent corporate social responsibility practices.

Promotion of renewable energy has been a pioneer in renewable energy use (nearly 100% of the country’s electricity comes from renewable sources), and this is shaping legal discussions around energy policy, investments in green technologies, and carbon emissions reduction. 

Changes in Costa Rican labor laws are particularly significant given the country’s strong labor protections. Recent trends include workplace rights. We have a history of strong labor protections, and there has been a growing focus on protecting workers’ rights, including rights related to maternity leave, paid leave, and collective bargaining. 

Regarding telecommuting and remote work, like many other countries, Costa Rica has seen a rise in remote work. New labor laws and regulations are being discussed to adapt to this shift, including rules around work-from-home arrangements, health and safety considerations, and compensation. 

Also, social security and pension reforms – the government is working on reforms to address the long-term sustainability of its social security system, particularly in relation to pensions and healthcare. There are legal reforms underway to ensure the country’s social security system remains viable amid an aging population. 

Foreign investment and business law because we have become an attractive destination for foreign investment, particularly in the tech, medical device, and tourism industries. Legal frameworks have been adapted to encourage this investment while ensuring national interests are protected. Key trends include free trade zones, this system offers tax incentives to attract foreign companies, which has contributed significantly to Costa Rica’s economy. There is ongoing legal refinement to ensure these zones comply with international trade agreements, labor laws, and environmental regulations. Also, as foreign businesses set up in Costa Rica, there is increased attention on corporate governance, anti-corruption measures, and legal compliance. Laws around anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism are becoming more rigorous. Judicial reform and transparency also mean there is continuous work to improve the efficiency, transparency, and fairness of its judicial system.