Decree No. 104-93 - General Environmental Law in Honduras

The main objective of the law is the protection, conservation, restoration and sustainable management of the environment and the country's natural resources. This law seeks to guarantee an adequate environment to protect people's health and promote sustainable development that meets the needs of present generations without compromising those of future generations. Among its specific objectives are: establishing an adequate framework to guide agricultural, forestry and industrial activities towards forms of exploitation compatible with the conservation of natural resources and the protection of the environment; maintain ecological balance and genetic diversity; promote citizen participation in environmental management; and implement environmental impact assessments for potentially polluting projects. The actions of the law include the creation of the Secretary of State in the Office of the Environment, responsible for formulating and coordinating national environmental policies and ensuring their compliance. In addition, the law establishes the obligation to carry out environmental impact assessments for public and private projects, promotes environmental education and research, and encourages community participation in environmental protection. It also prohibits the introduction of toxic waste into the country and establishes measures to prevent and correct environmental pollution. The law includes sanctions for those who violate environmental provisions and promotes cooperation with international and non-governmental organizations in environmental management.