In the absence of an EMS, farm management has difficulty
making informed decisions and effectively addressing
environmental risks. In addition, the lack of knowledge of
the ISO 14001:2015 standard, both on the part of the
manager and staff. The environmental management system,
however, limits the farm's ability to implement effective
environmental controls and mitigation measures. These
challenges highlight the need to develop an appropriate
environmental management system that will enable the
farm to improve its environmental performance, comply
with regulations and lay the groundwork for environmental
certification in the medium term.
The objective of this study is to design an Environmental
Management System (EMS) based on ISO 14001:2015 for
the mango farm in the Palenque canton. The purpose of this
EMS is to improve the environmental performance of the
farm, promote sustainable practices among its workers, and
facilitate compliance with current environmental
regulations.
The implementation of an EMS at this farm will not only
help mitigate the environmental impacts of its agricultural
activities, but will also optimize the use of resources such
as water and energy, reducing costs and improving its
competitiveness in the market. This approach is in line with
the current demands of consumers and regulators who favor
products from companies with environmentally responsible
practices.
1.1 The importance of environmental management on
mango farms.
Environmental management is fundamental in the
agricultural industry, especially on mango farms, as it
allows the identification, evaluation and control of the
environmental impacts generated by their production
activities. The implementation of an Environmental
Management System (EMS) facilitates the adoption of
sustainable practices and the efficient use of resources,
helping companies to reduce their negative effects on the
environment and comply with current regulations. In a
context where sustainability and social responsibility are
increasingly valued, environmental management becomes a
key component for the competitiveness and longevity of
farms, particularly those facing the challenges of intensive
agriculture [2].
The environmental risks on these farms are multiple and are
largely related to the intensive use of fertilizers and
pesticides, which can lead to contamination of water
sources and soil degradation. In addition, practices such as
agricultural expansion without adequate planning can
contribute to soil erosion and deforestation, threatening the
biodiversity of rural areas. These factors not only affect crop
productivity, but also impose environmental risks to
surrounding communities and ecosystems. Thus, a well-
structured EMS not only has the potential to mitigate these
impacts, but also favors a more sustainable agriculture that
respects the natural environment [3].
Likewise, adopting an environmental management
approach to mango production brings economic benefits by
optimizing the use of inputs such as water and energy,
which reduces operating costs and improves long-term
profitability. In addition, an EMS can improve the
company's image, since today's consumers prefer products
from environmentally responsible companies, which helps
attract new customers and consolidate the loyalty of current
ones. In this sense, environmental management not only
responds to a regulatory obligation, but also to a market
demand that values sustainability as a differentiating
attribute [4].
The implementation of a well-structured EMS enables
farms not only to meet their environmental responsibilities,
but also to generate a positive impact on their environment
and establish a sustainable production model. Aligning
operations with environmental standards, such as ISO
14001:2015, encourages the adoption of good agricultural
practices that protect natural resources and contribute to the
sustainable development of the mango industry in the
region.
1.1.1. Benefits of environmental management on
mango farms.
The implementation of an Environmental Management
System (EMS) in mango farms brings multiple benefits that
go beyond regulatory compliance, optimizing internal
processes and contributing to environmental well-being.
One of the main benefits is the reduction of operating costs.
By improving efficiency in the use of critical resources such
as water and energy, farms can reduce significant expenses
in these areas. For example, by employing efficient
irrigation systems, water consumption is optimized,
resulting in lower costs and improved crop sustainability
[5].
In addition, the adoption of an EMS can improve the
company's public image. In a context where consumers are
increasingly informed and concerned about the
environmental impact of the products they purchase,
companies that demonstrate environmental responsibility
are often preferred. This represents a competitive advantage
in the marketplace, allowing mango farms to attract and
retain customers who value environmental commitment and
sustainable practices.
An EMS also facilitates compliance with environmental
regulations, both nationally and internationally, which is
essential to avoid penalties and ensure business continuity.
In many countries, environmental regulations for the
agricultural sector are becoming increasingly stringent, and
an EMS provides a structure that enables companies to
remain in compliance with these requirements on an