New environmental regulations in Peru aim to promote sustainability in industries.

The recent Supreme Decree 012-2024-PRODUCE, published on August 9 by the Ministry of Production (Produce), has caused a stir in the manufacturing industry and internal trade sector. This modification of the environmental management regulation, which encompasses more than 30 articles, aims to address new regulatory demands in environmental matters, reflecting the growing concern for sustainability and environmental protection in industrial activities. The modification of the regulation is not merely a bureaucratic formality. It is an effort by Produce to align the regulatory framework with the changing realities of the environmental landscape. According to the information provided, several aspects of the previous document were identified as needing review and updating. In this way, the intention is to provide greater clarity and legal certainty to the actors in the manufacturing sector and internal trade, who are fundamental to the country’s economy. One of the most relevant updates pertains to the implementation of a suggestion box, a mechanism that will allow citizens to actively participate in environmental management. This suggestion box, mentioned in the Citizen Participation Regulation, seeks to foster constructive dialogue between industry and the public. It aligns with the National Environmental Policy for 2030, highlighting the importance of citizen participation as a key component in environmental decision-making. The new regulation aims to regulate and establish the necessary measures and procedures to ensure environmental management in the manufacturing industry and internal trade. This is particularly relevant in a context where it has been shown that many companies in Peru still do not comply with the principles of environmental sustainability, putting at risk not only natural resources but also public health and the quality of life of communities. Recent data indicates that, despite initiatives from the government and certain sectors of the industry, half of the companies in Peru do not comply with principles of environmental sustainability. This situation poses a considerable challenge but also presents an opportunity for the new regulation to drive significant changes in how companies approach their environmental responsibility. Additionally, the Minister of Production has emphasized that these modifications also aim to stimulate sustainable growth in the sector, which often faces challenges due to a lack of clarity in regulations. With the implementation of a clearer and updated framework, it is expected that companies will be able to more easily adapt to environmental demands and, in turn, contribute to the conservation of natural resources. It is important to mention that the regulation not only establishes responsibilities and procedures but also promotes the sustainable use of natural resources, a crucial aspect in a country rich in biodiversity and resources. Through specific measures, it seeks for companies not only to comply with regulations but also to adopt practices that favor sustainable development. In conclusion, the modification of the environmental management regulation for the manufacturing industry and internal trade represents a significant advance towards sustainability in Peru. The implementation of these norms not only anticipates greater regulation but also promotes a culture of participation and shared responsibility between industry and citizens. If executed appropriately, this new framework could herald the beginning of a greener and more sustainable era for the country, benefiting both the economy and the environment. As always, the success of these initiatives will depend on the willingness of companies to adapt and the government's commitment to enforcing the new regulations. Collaboration between the private sector, civil society, and the state will be essential to achieving the objectives outlined in the new regulations and advancing towards a more sustainable future.