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-Editorial
The Port of Ensenada has achieved a significant milestone in sustainability by obtaining the Recertification of the Port Environmental Review System (PERS, version 5), also known as the EcoPorts certification. The recognition, one of the most prominent international distinctions for environmental management in the maritime and port sector, positions the port as a pioneer in implementing best environmental practices.
Captain Manuel F. Gutiérrez Gallardo, General Coordinator of Ports and Merchant Marine, presented the EcoPorts certificate to Admiral Luis Javier Robinson Portillo Villanueva, Director General of the Ensenada National Port System Administration (ASIPONA). With this achievement, the Port of Ensenada reinforces its leadership as a “Green Port” and its commitment to sustainable economic development for Baja California and Mexico. Gutiérrez Gallardo highlighted that Ensenada is the only port in the national system to reach the highest environmental performance level recognized by PROFEPA.
The certification reflects a rigorous evaluation process, continuous improvement, and a vision linking economic growth with environmental responsibility. It acknowledges the efforts of the entire port team in advancing cleaner, more resilient operations. Ensenada was the first port in Mexico and the second in Latin America to receive this international certification, consolidating its status as a regional sustainability leader.
In addition, Admiral Robinson Portillo recalled that ASIPONA Ensenada received the 2023 Maritime Award of the Americas for “Green Management and Sustainability,” selected from 37 nominations across 13 countries. The award, organized by the North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA), the Latin American Society of Oil Terminal Operators (SLOM), and other OAS entities, recognized excellence in modernizing port operations while maintaining environmental standards. The recognition further underscores the port’s ongoing commitment to innovation, operational improvement, and responsible development under the European Sea Ports Organization (ESPO) EcoPorts framework.
The Port Environmental Review System (PERS) of Mexico is a comprehensive framework designed to evaluate and improve environmental practices within the nation’s ports. Developed in alignment with international standards, PERS provides a structured method for ports to assess their environmental performance, identify risks, and implement sustainable policies. Its purpose is to ensure that port operations minimize their ecological footprint while supporting economic growth.
Through the PERS certification process, Mexican ports undergo a thorough review of their environmental management systems, addressing issues such as waste management, water quality, energy efficiency, and air emissions. The system encourages ports to adopt proactive measures that protect natural resources, reduce pollution, and enhance safety for both workers and surrounding communities. This ongoing evaluation fosters accountability and transparency in how ports manage their environmental responsibilities.
By participating in the Port Environmental Review System, Mexico positions its ports as leaders in sustainability within the maritime industry. Achieving certification under PERS not only strengthens compliance with global environmental regulations but also enhances competitiveness, as environmentally responsible ports are increasingly preferred by international trade partners. Ultimately, the system represents a commitment to balancing economic development with environmental stewardship.