What actions is Mexico taking against industrial pollution?

Mexico is imposing fines, such as $4.8 million against Zinc Nacional, and launching a new industrial air-monitoring system, while also updating air and soil contamination standards.

What were the findings of investigations into Zinc Nacional?

Investigations revealed high levels of heavy-metal contamination in neighborhoods around the plant, with soil samples at a primary school showing lead levels 1,760 times US health risk benchmarks.

How is Mexico updating its environmental regulations?

Mexico is updating industrial air-pollution standards to lower particulate matter emissions by 50% and revising soil contamination standards, some of which have not been updated in decades.

Home / Environment / Mexico Cracks Down on Toxic Waste Dumping

Mexico Cracks Down on Toxic Waste Dumping

1 Feb

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Summary

Mexico fines hazardous waste processor $4.8m following investigations.
New air monitoring system to track industrial heavy metal emissions.
Contaminated soil samples showed lead levels 1,760 times US risk levels.

Mexico Cracks Down on Toxic Waste Dumping

Mexico has announced a significant crackdown on industrial pollution, employing a range of new tactics following investigative reports. These measures include a $4.8 million fine against Zinc Nacional, a facility processing US hazardous waste, and the introduction of a novel industrial air-monitoring system across Latin America.

Earlier investigations uncovered severe heavy-metal contamination in neighborhoods surrounding Zinc Nacional in the Monterrey area. The reports highlighted that industrial emissions in the region exceeded those in many US states and contributed more carbon dioxide than nearly half the world's nations.

The new government initiative involves establishing a comprehensive atmospheric monitoring network to measure industrial emissions, including heavy metals. This represents a "watershed moment" for industrial regulatory compliance in Mexico, according to Mariana Boy Tamborrell, Mexico's federal attorney for environmental protection.