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