What does the activation of phase one of environmental contingency by ozone mean in Mexico City

The Environmental Commission of the Megalopolis (CAme) reported that on the activation of phase 1 of environmental contingency by ozone in Mexico City and the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico by poor air quality. For this Wednesday, March 30, the condition will be maintained as a measure to reduce air pollution levels and avoid exposure of the population.

The Valley of Mexico reported high concentrations of ozone, among other things, due to the presence of a high-pressure system that causes atmospheric stability. That is, the presence of weak wind and the incidence of intense solar radiation that favored the accumulation of harmful particles. All of this, in addition to intensive human activities such as industries and the use of automobiles.

For this reason, the Ministry of the Environment has issued recommendations and instructions to mitigate the effects. But what is an environmental contingency? Well, according to this same institution, this is a situation determined by the corresponding authorities that indicates the presence of high amounts of pollutants, be it PM10, PM25 or the aforementioned ozone particles. This entails a risk and possible impact on the health of the population or the environment.

For the current condition in the Mexican capital and surrounding area, government authorities have given precise indications on what needs to be done as far as possible:

- Avoid civic, cultural and recreational activities, as well as exercising outdoors between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

- Suspend any outdoor activity organized by public or private institutions, between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

-It is recommended to postpone outdoor, sporting, cultural events or mass shows, scheduled between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

- It is recommended not to smoke, especially in enclosed spaces.

- Stay informed about air quality with the “Air” App, on the website www.aire.cdmx.gob.mx, on Twitter @Aire_CDMX or by phone 5552789931 ext. 1.

- Facilitate and continue remote work to reduce travel.

- Make purchases and paperwork online to reduce travel.

- Avoid the use of flavourings, aerosols, paints, waterproofing agents or products containing solvents.

- Refill petrol after 18:00 hours and do not refuel after the lock of the filling gun is released.

- Check and repair leaks in domestic gas installations.

- Reduce fuel use at home by shortening shower time to a maximum of five minutes and when cooking, use containers with lids.

At the industrial level (federal and local), measures such as the 40% reduction of their emissions of ozone precursors are also taken, in addition to maintenance, cleaning and degreasing activities that generate fugitive VOC emissions, and combustion activities related to the firing of brick, ceramic and smelting in artisanal ovens.

The authorities will affect the traffic of vehicles due to the implementation of the Double Today No Circulation program. From 05:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., the strategy will be implemented. In relation to services and establishments, the government indicates that activities that generate fugitive emissions into the air through the use of solvents and coatings (such as the use of thinner, white spirit, paint, lacquer, varnish, ink or other types of solvent-based coatings) should be suspended, among others.

KEEP READING: