
BLP houses a comprehensive environmental law offering in Costa Rica, with a multidisciplinary team which combines its expertise to advise on the full spectrum of transactional, contentious and regulatory matters. The team is commended for its in-depth knowledge of the environmental and sustainability issues linked to major projects, including real estate and tourism developments and the expansion of transport infrastructure, in addition to advising on licensing and permitting for the use of natural resources such as water rights and mining concessions. In addition, the team frequently assists multinational companies, particularly in the medical and food industries, with regulatory compliance audits and policies. On the litigation front, the firm is well equipped to represent clients in high-profile criminal proceedings, as well as civil and administrative cases. Mauricio Salas, who has expertise across all areas of environmental law, with particular strength in litigation, leads the practice and is also the director of Zone, the firm's environmental consulting company. Andrea González is an expert in environmental compliance issues relating to real estate and hospitality projects, while Alejandro Rojas is skilled in criminal litigation. Director Luis Palacios also stands out for his experience in environmental compliance, natural resources utilisation rights, and disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- They have a truly multidisciplinary team. They work alongside consultants and scientists in areas such as hydrogeology, forestry, and water management. It's a unique approach to legal services.
- Mauricio Salas has impressive knowledge. His background allows him to quickly grasp our environmental issues. Luis Palacios is a young environmentalist who will surely become a leader in the country.
Key clients
- Globalvía
- Oxford University's Climate Policy Monitor
- FIFCO
- Uber
- Bunge
- Gencom
- Discovery Zapotal
- Inversiones Turisticas Arenal
- Kraft Heinz
- Edwards LifeScience
- Amazon
Work highlights
Advising FIFCO on securing rights to exploit water sources and ensuring compliance with environmental and social regulations for sustainable water management.
Advising Uber on strengthening its legal compliance program, with a focus on environmental and health regulations that are critical for its regional operations managed from Costa Rica.
Advised the shareholders of Inversiones Turísticas Arenal S.A. on the sale of 100% of its shares to Pursuit Attractions, a transaction heavily influenced by strict environmental regulation due to the asset’s location in the Arenal region.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Mauricio Salas

