Welfare of Working Equids in Costa Rica’s Oil Palm Sector: A Commitment to Sustainability and One Health

By: MBA Lisa Ortuño Ibarra, Executive Director, CREW and Lic. Marlon Antonio Monge Castro, Executive Director, CANAPALMA

Oil palm cultivation began in Costa Rica in the 1940s as an alternative to diversify agricultural production. Its expansion consolidated in the 1970s, mainly in the southern region and the Central Pacific, eventually becoming a strategic crop for the country. Today, oil palm covers nearly 75,000 hectares, generates rural employment, and drives local economies. However, its continuity and competitiveness depend on the adoption of responsible production practices that integrate environmental, social, and ethical criteria.

In this context, the National Chamber of Palm Producers (CANAPALMA) has assumed an active role in promoting a sustainable palm oil model, aligned with RSPO principles and the One Health approach, which recognizes the interdependence between human, animal, and environmental health. A fundamental part of this vision is the recognition of animal welfare as a key component of sector sustainability.

Costa Rica presents a relevant particularity in its production system: in several palm-growing areas, especially where access is limited, working equids—mainly mules—remain essential for transporting palm fruit. These animals not only fulfill a strategic productive function, but also represent a historical and cultural heritage of national agriculture, while contributing to a reduced carbon footprint compared to the use of motorized machinery.

Aware of this reality, CANAPALMA, through its technical unit, promotes a cooperation agreement with the organization Costa Rica Equine Welfare (CREW), aimed at promoting and strengthening the welfare of working equids in oil palm cultivation. This coordinated effort seeks to generate sustainable change through training for producers and operators, body condition assessments, improvements in nutrition, harness adjustments, preventive veterinary care, and awareness-raising on respectful treatment of animals.

The results of this initiative are already tangible. At Palmatica, an affiliated company working closely with CREW, significant improvements have been observed in the body condition of equids, a reduction in work-related injuries, greater physical endurance, and improved performance in hauling activities. These advances demonstrate that animal welfare is not only an ethical commitment, but also has a positive impact on productivity, occupational safety, and operational efficiency.

This comprehensive approach aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It also reinforces the commitment of Costa Rica’s palm oil sector to international standards such as the RSPO, strengthening its reputation, competitiveness, and legitimacy in international markets.

Costa Rica’s experience shows that it is possible to move toward a green palm oil model, where productivity is achieved in harmony with environmental conservation and animal welfare. The leadership of CANAPALMA, in coordination with specialized organizations and sector companies, is key to consolidating responsible, ethical, and sustainable oil palm production, for the benefit of people, animals, and the environment.