Mexico's main environmental problems by Daniela Soto

The Darks Days of Mexico

sotomanriquezdany — 2024-09-05 15:46:26 UTC

The country has experienced its darkest days. In Mexico City, smog (a mixture of fog, smoke, and pollutants) becomes so thick due to vehicle emissions that breathing becomes impossible.

This situation arises from the concentration of ozone in the atmosphere. Ozone is an irritating and highly oxidizing gas that primarily affects mucous membranes. High ozone levels mainly impact the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, while also having significant environmental repercussions.

As a result, several cities in the country have faced paralysis for at least two days, leading to an environmental contingency being declared. In Mexico City, school activities have been suspended, vehicle restrictions have been imposed, and it is advised to avoid outdoor activities. This is what causes pollution to reach such alarming levels.

https://www.enlight.mx/blog/alerta-ambiental-los-principales-problemas-ambientales-de-mexico

Deforestation of large natural areas

sotomanriquezdany — 2024-09-05 15:57:18 UTC

The development of various mega infrastructure and transportation projects in recent years has sparked controversy due to the deforestation associated with them, with one notable example being the construction of the Mayan Train that started in 2018.

It is estimated that this project could impact up to 1.5 million hectares of jungle, endangering the biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by these forests. Moreover, the loss of forest cover leads to increased CO2 emissions, further accelerating climate change.

https://www.enlight.mx/blog/alerta-ambiental-los-principales-problemas-ambientales-de-mexico

Heat waves

sotomanriquezdany — 2024-09-05 15:59:46 UTC

Heat waves are one of Mexico's environmental issues that have increased in frequency and intensity due to climate change. During the summer of 2023, several regions of the country experienced record temperatures, exceeding 45 degrees Celsius in some northern areas, making that year the hottest in Mexico's recent history, surpassing previous records. These extreme events impact public health by increasing the risk of heat-related diseases and raising energy demand due to the intensive use of cooling systems and air conditioning.

https://www.enlight.mx/blog/alerta-ambiental-los-principales-problemas-ambientales-de-mexico