Mexico City Cuts CO2 Emissions by 2.2 Billion Tons

Mexico City’s Ministry of Environment (SEDEMA) reported the entity surpassed its emission reduction targets outlined in the Environmental and Climate Change Program 2019-2024 (PACC). The government announced it surpassed its target of reducing CO2 emissions by 10% based on 2016 levels. The city achieved an annual reduction of 2.2 billion t, exceeding the goal by 102.7%.

According to the local government, this accomplishment translates to significant environmental benefits, equivalent to removing all vehicles in the city for 51 days, halting 321,235 vehicles for a year, or caring for and reforesting 5,752,263 pine trees (Pinus ayacahuite) over 50 years. 

"Since 2019, we have established a series of commitments that have allowed us to surpass the set goal. We have reduced over 2 million t of greenhouse gasses annually, achieved through the seven strategic axes involving the improvement of public transportation, the transition to clean energy, the increase of vegetation in the city, the management of ecosystems such as wetlands, the improvement and recovery of forests and agricultural lands in the Conservation Zone, and the enhancement of public space and air quality,” said Head of SEDEMA, Marina Robles.

PACC’s success is attributed to innovative approaches, scientific methods, technological interventions, and active citizen participation across various environmental initiatives. Collective efforts have not only resulted in a substantial reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but have also contributed to an overall improvement in the city's well-being, biodiversity, and public green spaces.

Robles highlighted that Mexico City's environmental endeavors have gained international recognition, with 24 awards, including distinctions from WWF, the Carbon Disclosure Project, and the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy.

SEDEMA noted Mexico City's transformation from one of the world's most polluted cities in the 1990s to a model of sustainability showcases the possibility of reversing entrenched environmental and social deterioration to a city that offers a sustainable future for its residents and all living beings sharing this common habitat.