How Mexico’s Mountain Ranges Contribute to Pollution

Sierra Madre Ranges and Environmental Degradation

• Deforestation for agriculture removes trees that absorb pollutants.
• Erosion from cleared slopes carries sediments and chemicals into waterways.
• Agricultural runoff – pesticides and fertilizers contaminate soil and water.
• Industrial emissions – factories in mountain valleys release SO₂, NOₓ, particulates.

Combined, these factors degrade air, water, and soil quality, harming ecosystems and human health.