The course was designed as the result of a request by four California entrepreneurs who had purchased 200 acres of undeveloped land in the Paraiso region of Costa Rica.  Costa Rica has had a flood of irresponsible development which has had a major impact on its ecosystem.  These entrepreneurs would like to develop their land for residential and tourism activities in a way that is profitable yet that minimizes ecological damage.  The students, who served as business and ecological consultants for the Tierra Pacifica project, spent time at the site studying its ecological properties and development potential.  They also spent time looking at other developed properties, talking with the elders of the community, and learning practical concepts about business, ecology, and development in Costa Rica.  The course culminated in the completion of a development plan that was given to the owners of the property.

 

Eco-design and Sustainable Business was led by ecologist John Todd, Ph.D., Gardener's Supply Company founder, Will Raap, and Nyenrode University business professor, Karel Sampson.  MBA participants were thrilled to be a part of this integrative course.  They enjoyed their time spent in Costa Rica and learned a great deal about the impact of development on ecology.