CCA to Evaluate Environmental Concerns Against Cadereyta Refinery

The Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CCA), tasked with overseeing environmental issues in the United States, Mexico, and Canada under the USMCA agreement, has announced an evaluation of a complaint concerning emissions from PEMEX's Cadereyta refinery in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon.

The review follows an anonymous complaint filed by a Mexican citizen, alleging the federal government's failure to adequately enforce its environmental laws to control refinery emissions and address pollution in Monterrey, which borders the United States.

The complaint underscores long-standing concerns among Monterrey residents about poor air quality, largely attributed to the Cadereyta refinery operations. Last year, widespread social media images captured thick yellow and black smoke billowing from the refinery's chimneys, revealing gas burning exceeding permissible limits.

The CCA has 30 days to determine if Mexico must provide a formal response to the complaint. Thousands of Monterrey residents recently rallied, demanding the shutdown of PEMEX's Cadereyta refinery, citing it as the party responsible for the city's severe pollution, with reports indicating it accounts for 90% of sulfur dioxide emissions.

Governor Samuel García emphasized the need for stringent sanctions and potential refinery closure following a significant smog incident. He called for strict actions against PEMEX, citing technical malfunctions as the cause.

Representatives of the Cadereyta Refinery are scheduled to testify before the Nuevo Leon government due to rising pollution concerns. Governor García highlighted federal limitations in addressing industrial pollution and urged new laws to enhance regulatory capacity.

Beyond the refinery, Monterrey's pollution rates consider transportation and industrial activities, prompting the #airelimpio movement for comprehensive solutions.