The Ministry of Environment and Energy in Ecuador has officially started the process to develop a National Strategy for Sustainable Production and Consumption (ENPCS). The initiative was launched at an event held at the Universidad Andina Simón Bolívar, attended by over 100 representatives from national authorities, the private sector, academia, civil society, and international cooperation.
The ENPCS aims to align economic growth with environmental preservation and efficient resource use. Its development is based on requirements set out in Ecuador’s Organic Environmental Code and its regulations. The strategy will focus on five main pillars: sustainable production, sustainable consumption, sustainable food systems, sustainable value chains, and an enabling framework to support implementation.
During the event, acting minister Alicia Jaramillo said: “Sustainability is no longer just an environmental agenda but an indispensable condition for the country’s development. Producing cannot mean depleting resources; it must mean optimizing, innovating, and regenerating.” She also highlighted that ecological transition is essential for Ecuadorian products to access and remain in both domestic and international markets.
The process is supported by the United Nations Development Programme through the Proyecto Ecuador Verde. Technical assistance comes from international partners such as the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and Germany’s GIZ Ecoadvance Project.
A symbolic activity during the launch involved participants from various sectors assembling pieces of a digital puzzle to represent their roles in transforming unsustainable production and consumption models. The Ministry completed the puzzle with a piece representing the public sector.
With this launch, Ecuador begins a transparent and participatory process expected to include further dialogue and collective planning sessions. According to organizers, failing to act would lead to reduced competitiveness and higher environmental costs. Taking action now could foster innovation, job creation, stronger local economies, and a more resilient future for upcoming generations.
“The New Ecuador has taken the first step. Now we invite everyone to join efforts so we can build together a development model that protects our resources while expanding opportunities for present and future generations,” concluded ministry officials.
