Chiquita Honors International Day of Biodiversity by Spotlighting Costa Rica’s Nogal Reserve
257-acre tropical sanctuary showcases how banana farming and biodiversity protection can thrive together
Fort Lauderdale, FL (May 22, 2025) — In celebration of International Day of Biodiversity on May 22nd, Chiquita is shining a global spotlight on the Nogal Reserve, a lush 257-acre haven in Costa Rica that exemplifies how agriculture and environmental conservation can go hand in hand.
Nestled between the Sucio River and Chiquita’s banana farms in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, the Nogal Reserve has served as a private wildlife refuge since 2004. Today, it protects over 720 plant species and 330 animal species and plays a crucial role in linking fragmented forests via the Nogal–La Selva Biological Corridor.
“International Day of Biodiversity is a powerful reminder of how fragile—and vital—our ecosystems are,” said Peter Stedman, Director of Sustainability at Chiquita. “The Nogal Reserve stands as a beacon of what’s possible when conservation and cultivation work together. We’re proud to continue protecting this unique habitat as part of our broader commitment to a greener future.”
Chiquita’s efforts in the Nogal Reserve are part of a broader commitment to sustainable agriculture and climate action, including the brand’s “Behind the Blue Sticker” platform and its ambitious “30BY30” carbon reduction initiative. With support from customers since October 2023 Chiquita has been expanding the connectivity of the reserve, demonstrating that we remain a proud steward of this essential green space—today and for generations to come.
To learn more about Chiquita’s sustainability initiatives, visit www.chiquita.com/sustainability. Please find high-res images linked here.
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About Chiquita Brands International
Chiquita is a leading global produce company that is committed to providing both consumers and customers across nearly 70 countries with the highest quality of fruit and service, making Chiquita the banana of choice. For more than 150 years, Chiquita has been proudly producing great-tasting, superior-quality bananas. The brand creates a positive impact by implementing the principles of sustainability throughout all of its business practices under the “Behind the Blue Sticker” initiative.
Recently named one of America’s Most Loved Brands by Newsweek, this recognition underscores Chiquita’s strong emotional connection with consumers and its long-standing reputation for trust and quality. Chiquita’s iconic Blue Sticker has been the seal of approval for high-quality fruit, and a celebration of fun, but it also represents an unwavering commitment to sustainable farming, biodiversity and giving back to the communities in which the banana plantations operate. Great-tasting and convenient Chiquita bananas are fat-free, and provide a source of potassium, fiber and vitamin B6. To learn more, visit www.chiquita.com.
