The Ministerio de Salud de Costa Rica has recently used its official Twitter account to highlight issues related to waste management and public health. The posts, published between May 2 and May 3, 2026, address the country’s recycling rates, the risks of vaping, and the benefits of composting.
On May 2, 2026, the ministry stated: “Cada dÃa generamos más de 4.000 toneladas de basura, pero apenas 264 toneladas se reciclan. Eso significa que solo el 4% de los residuos se reutiliza, mientras que el 96% termina como desecho sin ningún valor.” This message underscores the low rate of recycling in Costa Rica and points out that a vast majority of waste is not repurposed.
The following day, on May 3, the ministry turned its attention to vaping with a post reading: “Su salud no es una tendencia. Vapear puede traer consecuencias que no siempre se notan de inmediato.” The tweet warns about potential delayed health effects associated with vaping.
Later on May 3, another post from the ministry focused on organic waste separation: “Lo que tiramos hoy puede convertirse en vida mañana. Separar los residuos orgánicos permite producir compost y abono natural para nuestras comunidades.” The statement highlights how separating organic waste can lead to the production of compost and natural fertilizer for local communities.
Costa Rica has made efforts in recent years to improve its waste management systems but continues to face challenges with recycling rates and environmental sustainability. Public health authorities have also expressed concern over increasing use of electronic cigarettes among youth and adults in Latin America.
