Global positioning satellite technology is being used by Costa Rica's Ministry of Environment and Energy since July to detect cases of forest mismanagement. Costing 14,000 dollars, the 22-computer system provides detailed information about the country's forest coverage as it existed in 2000, and permits scientists to identify sites where illegal logging is occurring.

“For the first time we have a precise and reliable instrument based on objective measurements and maps, allowing us to determine the legality of forestry permits issued,” Agustín Fallas, of the development foundation for Costa Rica's central volcanic range, told Tierramérica.