El Reglamento EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) como instrumento preceptivo en la transición sostenible de España

Eliana Díaz-Cruces

doi:10.31637/epsir-2026-2127

Authors

Eliana Díaz-Cruces Universidad a Distancia de Madrid https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0782-4101

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2026-2127

Keywords:

EMAS Regulation, sustainability, circular economy, environmental management, ISO 14001:2015, European Green Deal, SMEs, regulatory compliance

Abstract

Introduction: This paper analyzes the potential of the EMAS Regulation as a mandatory requirement for sustainable transition in Spain. Methodology: A qualitative approach is used, based on documentary review, regulatory analysis, and critical comparison of experiences in both Spain and the European Union, integrating academic and sectoral sources. Results: The analysis reveals that EMAS, although voluntary and more demanding than other systems, provides transparency and continuous improvement, but its adoption is limited by costs and complexity, especially for SMEs. Therefore, a roadmap is proposed for its mandatory implementation, including the modification of five articles of the regulation, audits, supervision, training, and institutional support. Discussion: Making EMAS mandatory could standardize environmental practices and strengthen legal certainty, though it raises challenges of proportionality and feasibility. It would improve transparency and environmental management, but overcoming legal and administrative hurdles, especially for SMEs, is essential, making support, training, and effective supervision fundamental. Conclusions: EMAS can be key to business sustainability in Spain, provided its mandatory implementation is flexible, equitable, and supported by sufficient institutional backing.

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Author Biography

Eliana Díaz-Cruces, Universidad a Distancia de Madrid

Law, Ecotechnology, Security and Innovation: Keys to Development in the 21st Century, Faculty of Law, UCAM-San Antonio Catholic University of Murcia, Campus de los Jerónimos 135, Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain. Lawyer from the University of the Andes (ULA) in Venezuela, with a double Master's degree in Law and Public Law obtained in 2021 from the University of Seville in Spain. Pre-doctoral researcher (PhD candidate) at the Faculty of Law of the Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM) in Spain in the Research Group on Law, Ecotechnology and Innovation: Keys to Development in the 21st Century.
Currently a full-time professor (Teaching and Research Staff PDI) at the Faculty of Legal Sciences of the Distance University of Madrid (UDIMA), Collado Villalba campus, Madrid, Spain. Teaching courses in Public International Law and Environmental Law. Her research focuses on Environmental Law and Human Rights, specifically the intersection of three critical elements:

i.- The right to climate.

ii.- Human Rights.

iii.- Impact of Climate Change.

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