In the 1980s Costa Rica was on the verge of losing its forests and biodiversity and was on its way toward becoming just another country in a long list that has had its natural resources and wealth ripped out and sold off without seeing tangible benefits for the country itself. However, over the last few decades Costa Rica restored its forests while providing employment and financial security for its people. How they did it is a story that can inspire the world and show a path to both protecting the ecological wealth and diversity of a nation while providing much needed income and employment.