Andina

Peru President announces Scrap Bond approval

14:35 | Lima, Dec. 18.

Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra on Wednesday announced the approval of the Scrap Bond aimed at the withdrawal of old vehicles —that pollute the environment— from the roads.

During the awarding of the Antonio Brack Egg National Environmental Prize, the top official said the Peruvian State is committed to the care of the environment, as proven through various actions and measures.

"Today, at the Council of Ministers, we have approved the regulation on the Scrap Bond to remove from circulation the old vehicles that pollute, but we will not be able to take them out if they (users) do not have an incentive," the Head of State expressed.

"Thus, we already gave them the incentive with a term and a budget; let's start the change," he pointed out.

The President recalled that —in the past— people used to believe the planet was indestructible, and harmful ways of life were encouraged, "but we became aware of the harmful impacts over time."

"Now we try to reverse this (situation), but it is not easy because we have to change uses, customs, and ways of life, and therefore we must have everyone's support," he stated.

In that sense, the statesman underlined that in 2018 the Climate Change Law was enacted —a rule that was the first to be approved in the region, which was a first step "because it is necessary to be persevering in the care of the environment."

"Last year, we worked on the Single-Use Plastic Law, and today marks a year since its enactment, (this is) an initiative that was a pioneering one and was internationally recognized for constituting the will to work in order to have a better place to live in," he remarked.

The President said this measure was taken because "it was irresponsible" to use so much plastic, but now this is being reversed thanks to the support of the community, "which is shaping a new conscience."

(END) JCC/VVS/MVB

Published: 12/18/2019