Costa Rica is able to produce 98% of its electricity fuel-free, overcoming the green energy capacity of many developed and richer countries. 

The news has bolstered the Central American country’s already outstanding environmental reputation – but the excitement has masked another less-than-green truth about Costa Rica’s energy use: the country’s demand for oil is actually growing, reports The Guardian. 

The main demand of fuel comes from the explosive growth in private vehicle plus its  gasoline-dependent transportation sector. Hybrids and electric cars make up less than 2% of vehicles. According to the national oil refinery, gas purchases increased by 11% in 2016.

 The capital, San José,has the worst ranking for traffic congestion in Latin America, according to a study by the navigation app Waze.

Read more about Costa Rica environmental challenges in The Guardian.