"Caring for nature is a moral obligation," says Abinader in accountability speech

Santo Domingo.– President Luis Abinader proclaimed that “caring for nature is a moral obligation”, when presenting the progress made by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources during his 2026 Accountability Speech before the National Assembly.

The leader maintained that development cannot be measured solely by economic growth, but also by ecological balance and responsibility in the use of natural resources. In that sense, he assured that his administration has taken firm steps to turn that vision into concrete results, strengthening environmental institutions and promoting a development model compatible with the protection of natural heritage. Among the main achievements, Abinader highlighted the comprehensive modernization of the Ministry, with the digitalization of more than 24 services and the transformation of the environmental permit system. "Thanks to these changes, more than 6,500 authorizations were processed, the highest figure in the history of the institution, which approved investments exceeding 22 billion dollars", the president indicated. He underlined that the incorporation of artificial intelligence and automation allowed for a significant reduction in response times, especially in category D permits, where an 80% decrease was achieved through the automated processing of Minimum Impact Registration Certificates (CRIM).

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He also highlighted the launch of the Environmental Geographic Information System (SIGEO RD), a platform that offers 19 layers of territorial information for citizens and investors, strengthening transparency and evidence-based planning. In terms of environmental protection, the Head of State reported on the opening of new provincial offices, the rehabilitation of surveillance centers, and the dignification of park rangers, with the training and certification of 400 members, who for the first time have medical insurance and better working conditions. The president emphasized the application of a zero-tolerance policy against environmental crimes, reflected in more than 400 inspections, 30 inter-institutional operations, 1,700 sanctions, and more than 200 closed cases in coordination with the competent authorities competent.