An initiative proposes to amend the Federal Penal Code of Mexico to consider illegal logging of trees as a serious threat to ecosystems and the quality of life of communities. This is due to the fact that deforestation not only causes damage to natural resources but also affects the social and economic stability of the country. In 2023, reforms were made to several articles of the code to increase penalties against those who engage in this practice, recognized as one of the main causes of deforestation in the country.
The proposal includes penalties of up to 12 years in prison and severe monetary fines for those who cut, uproot, fell, or log trees. Deputy Emilio Manzanilla from the Labor Party seeks to classify illegal logging as a serious crime to deter loggers and protect the forests of Mexico. It is considered that current penalties are not effective in stopping this crime, creating impunity and helplessness among affected communities, according to the legislator.
Illegal logging not only endangers biodiversity but is also linked to criminal activities such as organized crime, land dispossession, and violence in rural communities. Therefore, it is considered urgent to adopt strong measures to address this socio-environmental challenge and protect Mexico's natural resources.
Deforestation of forests has devastating consequences, intensifying natural disasters such as floods and landslides. Every year, about five thousand hectares of forests are destroyed due to illegal logging, according to estimates from the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (Profepa).
