Mexico is the second-largest economy in North America. The position of this country is greatly influenced by its manufacturing sector. According to statistics, the Manufacturing sector's share of GDP in Mexico is 18.79 percent in 2023. NAFTA has a positive effect on Mexico's manufacturing industry. The transformation of Mexico into a powerhouse is dragging the economy of the country but also leading to more environmental degradation.
As the second-largest emitter of these gasses in the region, Mexico is facing very serious environmental challenges, including deforestation, land degradation, soil erosion, provision of clean water, and air pollution.
In response to these challenges, the country is now increasingly focusing on Mexico Sustainability Measures And Environmental Regulation. Let's see what Mexico is doing for future environmental progress.
Environmental Indicators for Mexico
Mexico is struggling hard with respect to environmental regulation. Contaminated water and land pollution have become major issues in the country. Mexico has become an industrial hub. It is attracting investors, residents and investors across the world. The business culture of Mexico is giving new heights to the economy of the country. Meanwhile, the low environmental standards are becoming a hazard for locals. Here are just an example of Environmental Indicators for Mexico:
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Carbon Emissions | 3.59 |
| Renewable Energy Share in Total Energy Consumption | 23.1% |
| Protected Areas (% of total land area) | 14.64% |
| Recycling Rate for Plastic Waste | 5% |
How Mexico's legal system shapes its environmental regulations
Mexico follows a civil law system. This is one of the countries that passed laws on climate change. Mexico has developed a national climate strategy. The country has been very active in making sustainable development goals. It is also collaborating with international organizations to settle environmental issues. It is also observed that "NAFTA has contributed significantly to Mexico's environmental policy" [Research: The Impact of NAFTA on Mexico's Environmental Policy].
Mexico's Environmental Laws
In 1999, Mexico added environmental protection to its constitutional frame. According to Article 124, environmental laws are exercised by Federal, state, and local governments. These laws collectively form the legal backbone for environmental protection and sustainability in Mexico. This Law is an integral part of Mexico's sustainability measures. It provides a framework for all environmental laws in Mexico.
| Law Title | Description | Year Enacted |
|---|---|---|
| General Law on Ecological Equilibrium and Environmental Protection | Sets legal base for environmental protection and influences federal Environmental Impact Evaluation | 1988 |
| Federal Law on Environmental Liability | Provides sanctions for causing harm to the environment and outlines penalties for responsible parties. | 2013 |
| National Water Law | Governs national water management, ensuring water quality and usage regulations are in place. | 2012 |
| General Law on Wildlife | Preserves wildlife, safeguards endangered species, maintains biodiversity, and prohibits destructive acts | 2000 |
| Renewable Energy Law | Promotes renewable energy generation, aiming for 35% of energy from renewable sources by the next year. | 2008 |
| Law of Sustainable Forestry Development | Focuses on forest management, biodiversity protection, and preventing deforestation. | 2003 |
| General Law on Climate Change (GLCC) | Establishes a legal framework for addressing climate change, setting emission reduction targets. | 2012 |
| The Law of Dumping in Mexican Marine Areas | Considers dumping into marine water illegal and mandates permits for such activities. | 2020 |
| The Law of the National Agency of Industrial Security and Environmental Protection for the Hydrocarbon Sector (ASEA) | Regulates the oil and gas industry, focusing on emission control and sanctions for industry activities. | 2014 |
General Law on Ecological Equilibrium and Environmental Protection (LGEEPA)
LGEEPA sets the legal base for environmental protection. This Law was first enacted on January 28, 1988; It contributes to the sustainable development of the country. It is the basic environmental Law that influences the federal Environmental Impact Evaluation Procedure.
In the beginning, SEDUE was regulating LGEEPA. In 1992, SEMARNAT took charge of regulating SEMARNAT. To meet the evolving environmental challenges, LGEEPA continues to be regularly amended.
Federal Law on Environmental Liability (LRFA):
This Law was established in 2013. This Law provides sanctions for causing harm to the environment. It outlines the penalty and liability for the person responsible for environmental damage.
National Waters Law:
This Law governs the management of national waters. Its scope is water management and its use. National Water Law ensures safeguarding water quality. CONAGUA is the federal authority that regulates this Law.
General Law On Wildlife:
This Law preserves wildlife. According to Article 14 of the constitution, General Law On Wildlife is legislated to take care of endangered species. It maintains biodiversity and prohibits any act that causes destruction.
Renewable Energy Law:
This Law promotes the generation of renewable energy. The aim of this Law is to generate about 35% of energy from renewable resources by next year. Industries in Mexico are bound to achieve this statewide renewable energy standard.
Law of Sustainable Forestry Development:
This Law deals with forest management and conservation. The aim of this Law is biodiversity protection and preventing deforestation. It was first published in 2003. In 2018, it was revised with further amendments.
General Law on Climate Change (GLCC):
This Law establishes the legal framework for addressing climate change. It takes care of setting emission reduction targets. Moreover, it promotes sustainable development practices.
The Law of Dumping in Mexican Marine Areas:
According to this Law, dumping into marine water is considered illegal. People need permits for dumping
Environmental law enforcement in Mexico
SEMARNAT is Mexico's first federal environmental agency. Its objective is to enforce Law and regulate environmental laws. It supervises the natural resources. Furthermore, it works for the preservation and protection of ecological welfare. Its main objectives are:
- Setting standards for sustainable development programs.
- Enforcing environmental laws.
- Monitoring the use and supply
- Protecting natural resources.
- Issue license permits.
Other departments are bound to grant permits and licenses in the capacity of SEMARNAT. It has further departments for law enforcement:
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The National Institute of Ecology (INE)
It conducts scientific research on environmental issues. Also, it implements strategies to address climate change.
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The National Water Commission (CONAGUA)
CONAGUA is responsible for regulating water resources in Mexico.
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The Mexican Institute of Water Technology (IMTA)
IMTA conducts studies on water quality, availability, and management.
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The Federal Agency for the Protection of the Environment (PROFEPA)
Conducts inspections and monitors compliance with environmental standards.
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The National Institute of the Fishery (INP)
It conducts studies on marine and freshwater ecosystems. Also, it takes care of fisheries management.
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The Law of the National Agency of Industrial Security and Environmental Protection for the Hydrocarbon Sector (ASEA):
It regulates the oil and gas firms. Its main purpose is to supervise and control emissions. Moreover, it verifies sanctions on the activities of industry.
These agencies have the authority to supervise and inspect manufacturing sites.
Industrial Environmental Regulations In Mexico
Mexico's Sustainability Measures And Environmental Regulation policies are made to create a healthy environment for residents. In Mexico, it is necessary for all industrial facilities to comply with environmental regulations. First of all, they have to apply for an environmental operating license. This application also includes a statement. The statement should explain the impact of industry on the environment. After the successful completion of this process, the Attorney General has the authority to issue the license.
Air and Water Pollution Regulations
LGEEPA regulates air pollution and water pollution. The atmospheric air standards are set in Mexico. These are similar to the U.S. EPA's National Ambient Air Quality Standards. LGEEPA mainly deals with the regulation of the following pollutants;
- C.O. - Carbon monoxide
- Pb - Lead
- No2 - Nitrogen Dioxide
- O3 - Ozone
- PM10, PM2.5 - Particle Pollution
- SO2 - Sulfur Dioxide
Moreover, LGEEPA also monitors water-related actions;
- Discharge of water from the city
- Discharge of water from industries
- Discharge of water from agricultural activities
- Use of pesticides and fertilizers
- Use of toxic material at manufacturing facilities
- solid waste removal
Despite the efforts, Al-Jazeera claims that "Water contamination threatens the Mexican capital". Mexico's environmental laws and pollution regulation is directed by SEMARNAT. Also, the regulation of water pollution in Mexico is more advanced than in the U.S.
Hazardous waste regulations
Hazardous waste regulations in Mexico are regulated by the General Law for Prevention and Comprehensive Waste Management. The waste is stored according to regulations. Any site that produces dangerous waste has to get a license. This license is issued by the Attorney General. The movement of waste is tracked from origin to disposal. Authorities keep proper checks of waste type, quantity, and destination.
Non-compliance with hazardous waste regulations can result in penalties. It can be fines or even project suspension. In some cases, criminal charges can be applied as well.
What Should You Do If Your Business Is Moving To Mexico?
If you want to start a business in Mexico, keep in mind that you have to comply with the Environmental Law. Failure to comply can have severe consequences. Take care of the following formalities:
- Apply for EIA (Environmental Impact Authorization).
- Identify your waste.
- If your firm is producing hazardous waste, apply for a license.
- Register with SEMARNAT for the waste management plan.
- Take care that water waste exceeds the maximum discharge limit.
- Take care that your manufactory release doesn't exceed the permissible limit.
- Complete your documentation and follow the set of rules associated with your company.
You can also find a supplier in Mexico.
You Don't Have To Do It Alone
There are certain rules and regulations for companies that register in Mexico. If you are a manufacturer in Mexico, know everything about Mexico's Sustainability Measures And Environmental Regulations. If you find any difficulty in the process, we are here to help you.
From Obtaining relevant permits to manufacturing consultancy in Mexico, SIXM can do everything for you.
Sources:
- Al Jazeera: Water contamination threatens the Mexican capital https://youtu.be/076vGRORx5c?si=-AS_gaZ1-4GaXCMD
- The Impact of NAFTA on Mexico's Environmental Policy- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/1468-2257.00048
