Índice de Desarrollo Económico Sostenible: caso Costa Rica

Abstract

Abstract: The study considers the sustainability of Costa Rica's economic well-being by estimating the "Sustainable Economic Well-being Index" (ISEW) and its relationship with the "Gross Domestic Product" (GDP). Going beyond traditional indicators, ISEW integrates distributive, social, and environmental dimensions, and as a result, is able to estimate whether economic growth can truly translate into improved well-being. The methodology took into account both an adjustment for inequality in consumption content and a valuation of unpaid work, as well as the estimation of environmental costs and the identification of defensive expenditures, along with a sensitivity analysis and a preliminary territorial approach. The results show a growing gap between GNP and ISEW, which is mainly due to environmental degradation, persistent inequality in income distribution, and discontent with non-commodified goods and services. Furthermore, differences are observed between territories that reflect structural differences within these same areas. The study concludes that the progress of sustainable well-being is clearly slower than that of economic growth, therefore requiring public policies that emphasize equity, ecological sustainability, and a greater appreciation of social work.