TED: A small country with big ideas to get rid of fossil fuels | Monica Araya

The video discusses Costa Rica's pioneering role in renewable energy, highlighting its nearly 100% renewable electricity generation. It explores the country's historical decisions, such as abolishing the army, which redirected resources to social and environmental investments. The speaker argues for a transition away from fossil fuels, particularly in transportation, and emphasizes the need for citizen engagement to achieve this goal. Costa Rica's model serves as an inspiration for other developing countries to pursue sustainable development.

What is the main paradox in Costa Rica's energy consumption?

• Costa Rica uses no fossil fuels at all.

• Costa Rica's transportation system is fully electric.

• Despite renewable electricity, most energy consumption is oil-based.

• Costa Rica has no renewable energy sources.

What is the main challenge Costa Rica faces in its energy transition?

• Insufficient public support for fossil fuels.

• Dependence on oil for transportation.

• Lack of renewable energy sources.

• Over-reliance on military spending.

What significant decision did Costa Rica make in 1948?

• To invest in fossil fuels.

• To abolish its army.

• To increase military spending.

• To stop using renewable energy.

What is the significance of Costa Rica's decision to abolish its army?

• It had no impact on the country's development.

• It decreased the country's stability.

• It allowed for increased social spending and stability.

• It led to increased military conflicts.

How did Costa Rica's investment in national parks impact its economy?

• It increased deforestation.

• It led to economic decline.

• It had no impact on the economy.

• It boosted ecotourism and economic growth.

What is the proposed solution for Costa Rica's transportation issues?

• Reducing public transportation.

• Increasing oil imports.

• Building more highways.

• Transitioning to electric mobility.

What is the expected cost comparison between electric and conventional cars by 2022?

• Conventional cars will be cheaper.

• Electric cars will be cheaper.

• Electric cars will be more expensive.

• Both will cost the same.

What role does Costa Rica Limpia play in the country's future?

• It discourages public participation.

• It aims to empower citizens for clean energy transition.

• It focuses on increasing fossil fuel use.

• It promotes military spending.

What is the main focus of Costa Rica's future vision?

• Reducing citizen engagement.

• Building a society without fossil fuels.

• Abolishing renewable energy.

• Increasing fossil fuel dependency.

What is the key to real participation in Costa Rica's clean energy transition?

• Ignoring citizen input.

• Relying solely on government decisions.

• Focusing only on technical discussions.

• Helping people feel empowered and heard.