The Metropolitan Area of Mexico City covers 3,969 square kilometers and is located at 19°26' north latitude and 99°08' west longitude. The area lies 2,240 meters above the sea level and has more than fiftheen millions inhabitants, most of them younger than 25 years old. Atmospheric pollution levels in Mexico City are some of the highest in the world. The pollution levels are often above air quality standards and strategies to control them are urgently needed. The most important air pollutants are ozone (along with its precursors, oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons) and carbon monoxide. The main sources are connected with the use of energy.

Many energy uses in Mexico City are related to urban transportation. A very important source of air pollution are the exhaust gases produced by road vehicles.

This case of study will establish the relationship between the concentration of carbon monoxide in Mexico City and its emission sources; the use of energy (fuel consumption) and how the resulting pollution is dispersed. The case will analyze the projection of possible reductions in carbon monoxide concentration by implementing some strategies such as use of cleaner fuels, the use of catalytic convertors in vehicles, and improvements to public transport.

Therefore, to find solutions to Mexico City's air pollution problems, it is important to understand the following subjects:

 

 

This page is developed by:
UNAM
Rina Aguirre rina@sabina.fi-p.unam.mx
Sonia Mendoza sgmc@sabina.fi-p.unam.mx