The Council of Ministers for Sustainability and Climate Change has taken a significant step in environmental protection by approving the Odor Emission Standard for the Fishing Sector. This measure aims to improve the quality of life for people living near fish processing plants nationwide.
The regulation specifically targets 23 fishmeal and fish oil plants, predominantly located in the Biobío region, and nine fish feed plants, mostly in the Los Lagos region. These facilities have been identified as significant sources of odour emissions affecting nearby communities, making this regulation a priority on the country's environmental agenda.
The main objective of this new regulation is to protect health and improve the quality of life for the population near the emission sources. To achieve this, a technological approach has been adopted in the regulation, using the Best Available Techniques (BAT) to reduce emissions at the source. This means that plants must implement advanced odour abatement technologies and adopt good operational practices.
The process of developing this regulation began in 2019 and has been thorough and participatory. Technical and economic studies have been conducted, as well as meetings with various operational committees, including industry associations such as the Biobío Industrial Fishermen's Association and ASIPNOR. During the public consultation period, 120 observations were received, reflecting the high level of interest and concern from the public on this issue.
According to the General Analysis of Economic and Social Impact (AGIES) of the draft standard, the benefit/cost ratio is 1.17, indicating that the implementation of this regulation is socially profitable. The standard is expected to improve the quality of life for approximately 138,000 people by significantly reducing the nuisances caused by odours emitted by fishing plants.
Environment Minister Maisa Rojas emphasized that this regulation is an important step in terms of environmental justice, as it will reduce the disproportionate environmental burden suffered by vulnerable groups in the population. Once in effect, the obligations established in the standard will be monitored by the Environmental Superintendence, ensuring compliance and effectiveness.
With the approval of the Council of Ministers, the regulation moves towards being signed by the President of the Republic, followed by approval from the Comptroller General of the Republic, and finally, its publication in the Official Gazette to come into effect. This advancement represents a milestone in the country's environmental management and a firm commitment to the health and well-being of its citizens.
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