Every month, Route 27 generates approximately 27 tons of waste—ranging from paper and cardboard to scrap metal and plastics. However, the most alarming statistic for the concessionaire’s environmental authorities is that only 12% of these materials are currently being reused.

Under the pressure of growing landfill saturation in Costa Rica, Globalvia has decided to turn this environmental problem into an open innovation opportunity.

The concessionaire is officially inviting startups, universities, and creative minds to find ways to reuse waste, particularly tires and plastics, directly within the highway’s operations. The winning project will receive up to 20,000 euros to develop a functional prototype that promotes a circular economy in the country.

The Challenge of Critical Materials

Of all the waste generated, tires and plastics represent the greatest environmental hurdle due to their massive volume and slow degradation rates. Consequently, the Route 27 innovation challenge assigns them absolute strategic priority.

“We are aware of the landfill saturation problem, and we also know the potential contained in all this waste we collect from the highway. That is where this initiative originates, and why we are launching this project.”

— Jonathan Rojas, Quality Director of Route 27

Several practical ideas are already being considered for these recycled materials, including:

• Manufacturing raised pavement markers (commonly known as “cat’s eyes”) from scrap tire rubber.
• Creating highly durable road safety posts.
• Developing advanced resins to enhance the longevity of concrete and asphalt.

A Model for the Circular Economy

The winning proposal won’t just walk away with funding; it will also gain recognition from one of Costa Rica’s main infrastructure operators. Globalvia will provide continuous technical support and guidance, relying on the expertise of material-reuse specialists to ensure technical viability.

“This challenge aims to prove that waste can also be transformed into opportunities for innovation, road safety, and sustainability. We want to open the door to the country’s creative talent to build solutions with real impact, while contributing to a national issue: landfill saturation.”

— Montserrat Courrau, Communications Director of Route 27 by Globalvia

Ultimately, this effort is designed to serve as a circular economy model that can be seamlessly replicated across other industrial sectors.

Commitment to the Green Seal

Route 27 stands out as the only highway in Costa Rica holding both the Ecological Blue Flag award and the prestigious Esencial Costa Rica country brand certification. Their daily operations already feature solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, and active wildlife rescue programs.

By integrating ISO certifications in quality, environmental, and energy management, this new sustainability initiative is the next logical step toward consolidating its position as a truly green transport route.

How to Participate

Are you ready to shape the future of road safety and environmental management on Costa Rican highways? Interested parties can submit their proposals directly to [email protected].

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