International award in sustainable sports tourism
BoaPaz was honored in the Innovation in Sports Tourism category at the inaugural Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism, organized by UN Tourism and the International Automobile Federation (FIA). The award ceremony took place on March 19 in Madrid, Spain, during an international event dedicated to sustainable mobility and sport. The recognition places Costa Rica in the global conversation about innovative models combining sport, tourism, and sustainability.
The Blue Zone project
The award was granted for the project “A Smart Sports Tourism Living Lab in Costa Rica’s Blue Zone,” developed in the country’s Blue Zone, internationally recognized for the longevity and quality of life of its inhabitants. The initiative integrates tourism, sport, technology, sustainability, and social inclusion as tools to drive local economic development and community well-being. The jury particularly valued the coordination between local stakeholders, the participatory approach, and the potential to adapt the model to other regions of the world.
BoaPaz’s international reach
In addition to the award, the BoaPaz Foundation was invited to participate in the Change Accelerated Live Summit 2026, held on March 20, where it presented the Blue Zone experience to an audience of international leaders. The organization emphasized that this recognition is a source of pride for Costa Rica and demonstrates that rural territories can lead global solutions combining sustainability, sport, and inclusion.
About the BoaPaz Foundation
BoaPaz drives programs in tourism, education, entrepreneurship, and sport with a focus on strengthening communities and generating local opportunities. Its projects seek to connect well-being, sustainability, and economic development, positioning Costa Rica as a living laboratory for responsible tourism and social innovation.
Official sources
- BoaPaz Foundation: institutional website and communications about the project “A Smart Sports Tourism Living Lab in Costa Rica’s Blue Zone” and the award received.
- UN Tourism and FIA: information about the Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism and the evaluation criteria for initiatives.
