ABSTRACT
San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica. It is located on a central plateau on which is concentrated 50 per cent of the national population, 85 per cent of industry, and 88 per cent of all vehicles. The metropolitan area is the centre of large-scale agricultural activity, mos high waste producing coffee plantations and factories. The Rio Torres, a tributary Grande de Tarcoles, divides San Jose and crosses urbanized areas where liquid and ,solid wastes are discharged into it. The concentration of wastes during the dry season has contributed to what might be regarded as a sanitary disaster: public health, urban and marine life are all affected. However, the country's democratic history has led to ead public awareness of education and health issues.
