Mexico holds hearings on LGEEPA environmental law reform

Public hearings have concluded at the Chamber of Deputies regarding the reform of Mexico’s General Law of Ecological Equilibrium and Environmental Protection (LGEEPA), an initiative promoted by President Claudia Sheinbaum. Over three days, approximately 120 representatives from the public and private sectors, including scientists, activists, and government officials, presented proposals to update the legislation, which has been in effect since 1988.

Andrea Gamboa, executive director of the National Association of Lime Manufacturers (ANFACAL), proposed incorporating mechanisms to treat pollutant emissions directly at their source. She specifically highlighted the need to control sulfur dioxide (SO2) and other acid gases through technologies like gas desulfurization, citing regulatory precedents in Brazil, Colombia, Chile, and Peru. ANFACAL noted that Mexico recorded over 1.3 million tons of anthropogenic SO2 in 2018.

State environmental authorities, represented by Norma Elvia Martínez Santos of Baja California, emphasized the need for a historical update that clarifies jurisdictional competencies between different levels of government. Key demands included ensuring free access to environmental information, strengthening environmental justice, and creating protection mechanisms and identity reserves for territorial defenders.