Mexico City Air Quality: Moderate AQI, Key Pollutants Include Ozone, PM, NO₂, SO₂, CO

According to the Mexico City Air Quality Commission, the 2020 average annual Air Quality Index (AQI) was 62 (moderate). However, air quality varies significantly by day and season due to weather, traffic, and industrial emissions.

Main Pollutants

• Ozone (O₃): Formed by sunlight reacting with NOx and VOCs; primary smog component; irritates respiratory system.
• Particulate Matter (PM): Small solid/liquid particles from vehicles, industry, dust, pollen; causes respiratory, cardiovascular issues, cancer.
• Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂): From high-temperature fuel combustion; irritates airways, increases resistance, coughing, shortness of breath.
• Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂): From power plants, industry, vehicles; causes bronchitis, asthma, contributes to acid rain.
• Carbon Monoxide (CO): From incomplete combustion; odorless, colorless; causes headaches, dizziness, nausea, death at high levels.

Air pollution in Mexico City is complex, influenced by high altitude, dense population, geography, and climate. Efforts like emissions standards, public transit promotion, and green spaces have been made, but challenges persist.