Tighter emissions standards, better information management, effective sanctions for violation of environmental norms and an early-action system for heading off environmental conflicts are part of an ambitious package of proposals put forth recently by Peru’s executive branch. The proposals, issued this month, fall into four areas: safeguarding environmental rights, improving quality of life, “harmonious” use of natural resources and maintaining healthy ecosystems. The package, designed by a multi-agency commission, stems from a pledge by President Ollanta Humala to create a “new relationship” with extractive industries to reduce conflicts over resource use. The measures “set priorities, across all ministries, for an environmental reform agenda,” addressing both existing problems and conditions for new projects, especially mining and energy, according to Mariano Castro, vice minister for... [Log in to read more]