ANALYSIS OF A SOCIOENVIRONMENTAL CONFLICT OVER WATER AND TOURISM IN SARDINAL, COSTA RICA

Abstract

In this article is analyzed the conflict aroused by the appropriation of water from the
aquifer Sardinal in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, between 2008 and 2010. The conflict included
demonstrations, scientific controversies and trials involving community residents,
government representatives, nongovernmental and ecclesiastical organizations, and
private enterprise. While the conflict was resolved in favor of the community, it did not
involve a solution of its structural causes: inconsistent actions from state institutions, lack
of land use planning, and spatial and economic exclusion of community members from
tourism development.