Background on the Situation
The Commission for Environmental Protection of the Metropolitan Area (CAMe) announced on Friday morning that the environmental contingency due to ozone levels will continue as of January 9, 2023, in the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico (ZMVM).
Who is CAMe?
The Commission for Environmental Protection of the Metropolitan Area (CAMe) is a governmental body responsible for monitoring and managing air quality in the Mexico City metropolitan area. It collaborates with other agencies to enforce environmental regulations and inform the public about air quality conditions.
Reasons for Maintaining Contingency
According to CAMe, the stable atmospheric conditions caused by current weather patterns have led to increased ozone levels. Ozone, a secondary pollutant, forms through photochemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight.
Since several monitoring stations have recorded ozone concentrations exceeding the permissible limits, the environmental alert remains active.
Impact on Citizens and Recommendations
The implementation of the Double Hoy No Circula program affects thousands of drivers, who must plan alternative transportation methods or adjust their schedules.
- Transportation Alternatives: Consider using public transport, carpooling, biking, or walking to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Official Recommendations: Regularly check the Metropolitan Index of Air Quality (IMECA) reports and follow official advice to avoid exacerbating respiratory or cardiovascular issues.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Minimize time spent outdoors, especially between 1 PM and 7 PM when ozone levels are typically highest. Avoid smoking in enclosed spaces and limit unnecessary exposure to polluted air.
- Vulnerable Groups: Pay special attention to the health of children, elderly individuals, and those with respiratory conditions during these periods of poor air quality.
The decision to maintain these restrictions was made after recording unsafe ozone concentrations, particularly in areas like Cuajimalpa. Adverse weather conditions, including high-pressure systems and low ventilation with minimal humidity, have hindered contaminant dispersion in the metropolitan area.
These factors have resulted in elevated ozone levels, necessitating the continuation of these measures to safeguard public health, especially for vulnerable groups.
