The tropical rainforest of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula is home to 2.5% of the world's biodiversity, but its future is in danger. The planned construction of an international airport threatens to destroy the region's delicate ecosystem and displace local communities. '2.5% – The Osa Peninsula' follows the inspiring stories of Xinia, Johnson, and Carlos, three Osa residents who are fighting to protect their land and build a sustainable tourism industry that benefits both the environment and local communities. Through their struggles and triumphs, the film showcases the effects of tourism development on local communities and offers a hopeful vision for the future of travel in the planet's most fragile places. With stunning footage of the Osa's incredible wildlife and vibrant culture, '2.5%' is a must-see for anyone who cares about the future of our planet. The filmmakers, Marco and Eytan, fell in love with the Osa Peninsula after a trip to Costa Rica. Determined to help protect the region's rich biodiversity, they launched a successful crowdfunding campaign, even dressing up as rainforest animals to raise awareness. Over the course of five years, they have spent countless hours in the Osa, building relationships and supporting local conservation efforts. Their passion and dedication shine through in every frame of this powerful and important film.

All funds raised through sale of the film support sustainable, community-based tourism projects around the world. Making 2.5% inspired directors Eytan and Marco to join forces with their co-founders to launch Lokal, a social enterprise on a mission to change the way the world travels. Lokal helps protect unique places like the Osa by promoting community-based travel experiences. From stunning ecolodges in the Brazilian Amazon to women-run homestays in the Himalayas, the platform already highlights travel experiences in more than 25 countries that all support conservation of fragile environments and preservation of local cultures.

Why Community-Based Tourism?

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, as little as 5% of the money international travelers spend on trips actually reaches local communities. Instead, money goes to internationally-owned hotels and tour operators who send earnings abroad and negatively impact local environments and culture. Community-based tourism projects ensure your travel dollars go directly into the hands of local people who are committed to conserving fragile environments, improving life for local communities and preserving cultural traditions.

How Lokal Makes a Difference

Most community-based tourism projects are small in scale and local entrepreneurs don’t have the resources needed to reach global travelers. Without visitors, these projects can't make a difference in their communities. Lokal provides these impactful businesses with free/low-cost technology and marketing support that helps them connect with our growing community of conscious travelers. Our partner communities get more visitors and travelers get to access unique, sustainable experiences. It's a true win-win.

Contributing to the film provides community tourism projects with the tools and support they need to connect with global travelers.