An Inspection at the Cadereyta Refinery Still Not Off the Table

Activists have reported that the federal government and the Agency for Energy Safety and Environment (ASEA) have failed to conduct an inspection on the Cadereyta refinery in Nuevo Leon, even after the Second District Court of Administrative Matters issued a definitive suspension ordering the state, in coordination with ASEA, to carry out an inspection of the hydrocarbon plant back in March 2024.

Five months have passed since this order was issued, and the inspection still has not been conducted. Incoming Deputy Minister of Environment, Javier González Alcántara, stated in an interview that an audience will be held at court to address ASEA's omission and evaluate potential penalties for this non-compliance. During the hearing, it is expected that an order will be issued to immediately carry out the inspection.

If ASEA continues to be in contempt, the penalties could be more severe, including the possible removal of the agency’s head. “As deputy minister, my job is to help the refinery to stop polluting and to continue with its activities. If it can be the most productive in the country, the better,” added González, in an interview with Telediario Radio. He also said he is not in favor of moving the refinery.

The lack of action by authorities has raised concerns among activists and local residents, who are worried about the potential environmental and health implications of the refinery’s operation in the region. The refinery emits large amounts of sulfur dioxide and fine particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10, which deteriorates air quality in Monterrey and its metropolitan area, contributing to serious health problems such as cancer and respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.