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Changing Forest Land Use

According to the General Law of Sustainable Forest Development of Mexico, forest vegetation includes various plant formations such as forests, jungles, mangroves, arid and semi-arid zones, wetlands, and other ecosystems with similar characteristics. This classification is not limited to trees in a traditional sense; it can also include shrubs, herbs, and other forms of vegetation that fulfill a function in the forest ecosystem.

In this context, forest vegetation plays an important role in soil conservation, regulation of the hydrological cycle, carbon capture, biodiversity conservation, and provision of habitats for various species. Therefore, any change in land use involving areas with forest vegetation is subject to a series of regulations and assessments to minimize environmental impact.

In Mexico, the Change of Use of Land in Forest Areas is a legal and physical modification of the use or purpose of land with forest vegetation, to dedicate it to non-forestry activities such as agriculture, livestock, and urban or industrial development, among others. This process is regulated by the General Law of Sustainable Forest Development and its regulations, requiring authorization from the Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT). The aim is to ensure that the change does not pose a threat to biodiversity, ecological balance, and the environmental services provided by these ecosystems.

Technical Justification Study (ETJ)

The Technical Justification Study (ETJ) is a document required to request authorization for a change of land use in forested areas. This study must provide a technical and scientific justification demonstrating that the proposed change is the best land use option and that measures have been considered and planned to mitigate negative impacts. The ETJ generally must include:

- A detailed description of the project and its objectives.

- Diagnosis of the current state of the area (flora, fauna, soil, water, etc.).

- Evaluation of negative environmental impacts and proposals for their mitigation.

- Analysis of alternatives, demonstrating why the change of land use is the best option.

- Restoration or compensation plan for affected areas.

Unified Technical Document (DTU)

The Unified Technical Document (DTU) is an administrative tool aimed at simplifying and expediting procedures related to the change of land use in forested areas and the Environmental Impact Assessment (MIA). It is a single document that integrates both the ETJ and the MIA, allowing both evaluations to be carried out simultaneously and in a coordinated manner. This unified approach facilitates review by authorities and speeds up the decision-making process.

The DTU generally includes:

- All elements of an ETJ and an MIA.

- A comprehensive sustainable management plan for the affected area.

- Coordination between different levels of government and stakeholders.

In summary, the change of forest land use in Mexico is a process that involves a rigorous assessment of environmental and social impacts. An ETJ is required to technically justify the proposed change, and in more complex cases, a DTU may be used to comprehensively address both the change of use and other related environmental impacts.

How can we help you?

At ECOPLADE, we understand that every detail matters when it comes to environmental management and planning. We offer an interdisciplinary approach to develop the ETJ, the MIA, and, if applicable, the DTU for your project. Our team of experts in biology, forest and environmental engineering, and environmental legislation is ready to provide solutions that not only meet legal requirements but are also economically viable and environmentally responsible.