Meghan Hodges
Mexico has been taking steps to prevent pollution and address climate change. Notably, Mexico City, which was once the world's most polluted city, has dropped to 917th place in terms of air pollution as of 2021. This improvement is attributed to various initiatives and policies implemented by the city's government, including the Hoy No Circula program, which restricts vehicle circulation on certain days, and the adoption of low-emission public transit options such as the Metrobús and Ecobici bicycles. Additionally, Mexico has been working to reduce short-lived climate pollutant emissions and has partnered with the Climate & Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to develop national planning and strategies for SLCP mitigation. The country has also implemented federal regulations to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector and has passed a tax on carbon pollution. However, Mexico's climate policy record has been inconsistent, and there is criticism that the government has prioritized domestic fossil fuel resources over low-carbon alternatives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air pollution control | Advanced technologies and surveillance programs, vehicular emissions control, improved fuel quality, improved public transportation, introduction of hybrid and electric taxis, bike-sharing programs, green energy initiatives, energy efficiency programs, sustainable development of natural resources |
| Water pollution control | 48 potable water treatment plants, 130 municipal wastewater treatment plants, and over 600 industrial wastewater treatment plants |
| Climate change initiatives | Reducing short-lived climate pollutant emissions, reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas sector, guidelines for transfer stations and transport operations, zero-tolerance policy for methane emissions, workshops for industry leaders, tax on carbon pollution |
| Solid waste management | N/A |
| Environmental education | N/A |
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What You'll Learn
Mexico is reducing short-lived climate pollutant emissions
Mexico has been taking steps to reduce short-lived climate pollutant (SLCP) emissions and address air pollution and climate change. Recognising the potential to achieve local air quality benefits, in addition to reducing the near-term rate of temperature increases, Mexico has committed to targets that reduce SLCPs.
In 2019, Mexico launched its National Strategy to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants, which aims to improve air quality and reduce climate change impacts using nine mitigation measures in eight key sectors. The strategy identifies how these targets can be achieved through the implementation of measures in sectors such as transport, residential cooking, and sugar mills. For example, increasing the number of electric vehicles, encouraging the use of public transport, and controlling particulate pollution from sugar mills. Mexico is also working to introduce new bus standards, reduce cookstove and brick kiln emissions, and improve waste management practices in coastal wetland communities.
Mexico has also been working closely with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) and has participated in the SNAP (Supporting National Planning for action on short-lived climate pollutants) initiative. This has involved creating institutional capacity within the National Institute of Ecology and Climate Change (INECC) to coordinate SLCP activities across relevant sectors, ministries, agencies, and research institutions. An extensive consultative process was then carried out to identify primary sources of SLCP emissions and data gaps, leading to the creation of a national SLCP inventory. Mexico's Special Programme on Climate Change was launched in 2014 with a focus on SLCP reductions, including targets to reduce black carbon emissions.
In addition to its efforts to reduce SLCP emissions, Mexico has also been taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. In 2018, Mexico outlined proposals for the oil and gas, transport, waste, industry, household energy, and agriculture sectors. Mexico has also been developing regulations to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector, becoming the first country in Latin America to do so.
Mexico's efforts to reduce SLCP emissions and improve air quality have shown significant results. Mexico City, once the world's most polluted city, has now dropped to the 917th most polluted city in the world. While challenges remain, Mexico's actions demonstrate its commitment to addressing air pollution and climate change.
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The government is implementing air quality management programs
Mexico has been implementing air quality management programs to combat air pollution, which was once a severe issue in the country, especially in Mexico City, which was previously named the world's most polluted city. Recognising the severity of this issue, the Mexican government has implemented a range of policies and initiatives to improve air quality and protect public health.
One key initiative is the ProAire program, managed by SEMARNAT, which aims to prevent and correct the deterioration of air quality in major Mexican cities. There are currently 29 ProAire programs covering 27 federal entities and serving a population of 105.2 million inhabitants. These programs promote collaboration between different levels of government, industry, academia, and civil society to address air pollution challenges. They also involve diagnosing the causes of poor air quality in specific areas and identifying emission sources to develop targeted measures for emissions reduction, institutional strengthening, public health protection, and environmental education.
Mexico has also been working closely with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to reduce short-lived climate pollutant emissions, such as methane, black carbon, and HFCs, which are significant contributors to climate change. Through its participation in the CCAC's Supporting National Planning for Action on Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SNAP) initiative, Mexico has established institutional capacity within INECC to coordinate SLCP mitigation activities across various ministries, agencies, and research institutions. This collaboration resulted in the creation of a national SLCP inventory and the launch of Mexico's Special Programme on Climate Change in 2014, with a focus on SLCP reductions.
In addition to these initiatives, the Mexican government has implemented regulatory actions and technological advancements to improve air quality. This includes strengthening vehicular emissions control with advanced technologies and surveillance programs, such as Green inspectors and remote sensors, to identify high-emitting and non-compliant vehicles. They have also improved fuel quality for diesel and gasoline, promoted the use of hybrid and electric taxis, and introduced low-emission public transit options like the Metrobús and Ecobici bicycles. Furthermore, Mexico City has invested in renewable power projects, such as installing photovoltaic panels and solar water heating systems in public and private buildings, as well as expanding green spaces.
While Mexico has made significant progress in improving air quality, especially in Mexico City, challenges remain. The country's climate pollution continues to be predominantly driven by the transportation, power, and industry sectors, with a recent increase in power sector emissions due to the government's prioritisation of fossil fuels. However, through a combination of comprehensive air quality management programs, international collaborations, and eco-conscious initiatives, Mexico is committed to continuing its fight for cleaner air and addressing the impacts of climate change.
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The country is investing in renewable power projects
Mexico, specifically Mexico City, has been working to improve its air quality and reduce pollution. In the past, Mexico City was named the world's most polluted city, but it has since dropped to the 917th most polluted city in the world. This improvement is largely due to the Mexican government's recognition of the severity of the country's air pollution problem and its implementation of various policies and initiatives to combat it.
One of the key initiatives that Mexico is focusing on is investing in renewable power projects. Mexico City has launched an ambitious solar panel program called Ciudad Solar (Solar City). The program aims to harness 350 megawatts of solar energy by 2024 by installing renewable energy units, such as solar panels and solar heaters, across the city in private and public buildings. This initiative is expected to cost nearly 8 billion pesos ($414 million) and will be funded by the city budget, the Mexican federal bank, the World Bank, and the Inter-American Development Bank. By implementing this program, Mexico City aims to reduce carbon emissions by 2 million tons and improve air quality for its residents.
In addition to solar panel integration, Mexico City is also investing in other renewable power projects. For example, the city has installed photovoltaic panels on public and private buildings to generate renewable energy and has installed solar water heating systems in 26 hospitals. These initiatives contribute to the city's goal of reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and improving its overall environmental sustainability.
Mexico has also been working closely with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to reduce short-lived climate pollutant emissions and address air pollution and climate change. Through its participation in the Supporting National Planning for Action on Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SNAP) initiative, Mexico has developed a national planning exercise on SLCP mitigation. This has involved creating institutional capacity within INECC to coordinate SLCP mitigation activities across relevant ministries, agencies, and research institutions. Mexico has also published guidelines and held workshops to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector, becoming the first country in Latin America to do so.
While Mexico has made significant progress in investing in renewable power projects and improving its air quality, there are still challenges to be addressed. The country's power sector emissions have been rising, and its share of clean electricity generation has fallen below the target set in its 2012 climate law. Additionally, Mexico has yet to set a net-zero target, and its climate policy record has been inconsistent. However, with continued investments in renewable power projects and a commitment to reducing climate pollution, Mexico is taking important steps towards a more sustainable future.
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Mexico is reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas sector
Mexico has taken several steps to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector. In 2018, the country published the "Guidelines for the Prevention and Comprehensive Control of Methane Emissions from the Hydrocarbons Sector", aiming to reduce methane emissions in the oil and gas industry by 40-45% by 2030. These guidelines set emission limits for new and existing facilities, prohibited gas venting except in emergencies, and outlined measures such as leak detection and repair, as well as the installation of vapor recovery systems.
To support the implementation of these guidelines, Mexico has conducted industry workshops and established a task force within the Agencia de Seguridad, Energía y Ambiente (ASEA). ASEA has also developed technical and environmental standards for emissions from oil and gas operations, including requirements for fugitive emission detection systems and equipment.
In addition to regulatory measures, Mexico has recognized the potential for oil and gas companies to utilize low-cost solutions, such as increased use of flares, low-emitting valves, and equipment monitors, to reduce methane emissions. The country has also worked closely with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to develop institutional capacity for coordinating SLCP mitigation activities across various ministries, agencies, and research institutions.
Mexico's efforts to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector are part of a broader commitment to address air pollution and climate change. The country has implemented various policies to improve air quality, particularly in Mexico City, which was once the world's most polluted city. While Mexico has made significant progress in reducing air pollution, challenges remain, including water scarcity, solid waste management, and the lack of a concrete decarbonization plan at the federal level.
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Mexico City is improving public transportation
Mexico has been working to address pollution and climate change, with a focus on reducing emissions. Notably, Mexico City, which was once the world's most polluted city, has seen significant improvements in air quality and now ranks 917th in the world for air pollution.
Mexico City's government has implemented a range of policies and initiatives to tackle air pollution and improve public transportation. Here are some key ways in which Mexico City is improving public transportation:
Expansion of Low-Emission Public Transit Options
Mexico City has expanded its public transit system to include low- and zero-emission options. This includes the introduction of the Metrobús, a bus rapid transit system, and Ecobici, a bike-sharing program. These options provide residents with environmentally friendly alternatives to private vehicles, helping to reduce emissions and improve air quality.
Improving Fuel Quality and Vehicle Emissions Control
The city has worked to improve fuel quality for both diesel and gasoline vehicles. Advanced technologies and surveillance programs, such as remote sensors and Green inspectors, have been implemented to identify high-emitting and non-compliant vehicles. Additionally, the city has promoted the use of hybrid and electric taxis, further reducing vehicle emissions.
Enhancing Mobility for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Beyond public transportation, Mexico City has improved mobility for pedestrians and cyclists. The Ecobici program has enhanced cycling infrastructure and encouraged active transportation. The city has also developed enhanced pedestrian areas, making it more convenient and safe for residents to walk.
Integration of Solar Panels and Renewable Energy
Mexico City has invested in renewable energy projects, such as the Ciudad Solar (Solar City) program. This initiative aims to harness solar energy by installing solar panels and solar heaters on public and private buildings. By increasing the use of renewable energy, the city can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and decrease carbon emissions.
Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings
The city has implemented energy efficiency programs for public buildings, converting four public buildings to efficient energy usage. This includes the installation of photovoltaic panels to generate renewable energy and the use of solar water heating in hospitals. These measures not only reduce the city's carbon footprint but also lower energy costs for public institutions.
Through these initiatives, Mexico City is making significant strides in improving public transportation and reducing air pollution. The combination of low-emission transit options, improved fuel quality, enhanced mobility, renewable energy integration, and energy efficiency demonstrates a comprehensive approach to tackling environmental challenges and improving the quality of life for its residents.
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Frequently asked questions
Mexico has implemented a range of policies and programs to combat air pollution, particularly in Mexico City, which was once the world's most polluted city. These include:
- Vehicular emissions control with advanced technologies and surveillance programs, including Green inspectors and remote sensors.
- Improvement of fuel quality for both diesel and gasoline.
- Introduction of low-emission public transit options, such as the Metrobús and Ecobici bicycles.
- Improvement of public transportation, including the introduction of hybrid and electric taxis.
- Implementation of climate change strategic programs with clear and specific targets, including green energy initiatives and energy efficiency programs for public buildings.
- Regulation of the burning of agricultural waste through fire prevention workshops and the creation of a buffer zone between agricultural and forest areas.
- Replacement of lamps with better technology in public buildings.
- Installation of renewable energy units, such as solar panels and solar heaters, in private and public buildings.
Mexico is facing challenges in the water sector, including over-exploitation, inadequate infrastructure, drought, and contamination of water resources. The state of Jalisco, for example, operates over 600 industrial wastewater treatment plants. There is a growing market for water and wastewater treatment technologies in Mexico, providing opportunities for foreign companies to offer solutions.
Mexico has been working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and short-lived climate pollutants, such as methane, black carbon, and HFCs. In 2020, Mexico became the first country in Latin America to develop and implement federal regulations to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector. Mexico has also participated in international initiatives, such as the SNAP (Supporting National Planning for action on short-lived climate pollutants) initiative, and launched its Special Programme on Climate Change in 2014.
