Environmental Challenges and Climate Commitments

The UN urged Mexico to present an ambitious climate plan ahead of COP30. Meanwhile, Mexico ranked among the Top 10 countries with the highest forest cover loss in 2024.

This is the Week in ESG!

UN Urges Mexico to Submit Ambitious NDC Ahead of COP30

Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of Climate Change at the UN, urged Mexico to present an ambitious, development-focused Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) ahead of COP30, emphasizing climate finance as key to economic growth and energy security. During his visit, Stiell engaged with government officials and the private sector, highlighting Mexico’s potential to lead the renewable energy transition in Latin America, supported by new laws and strategic programs. 

Mexico Enters Top 10 for Global Forest Loss Amid Rising Fires

Mexico ranked for the first time among the Top 10 countries with the highest forest cover loss worldwide in 2024, mainly driven by wildfires that accounted for nearly half of the primary tropical forest destruction. The surge in wildfires, linked to rising temperatures and budget cuts for the National Forestry Commission, has intensified forest loss, especially in Campeche and Quintana Roo, where agricultural expansion also plays a significant role. Experts warn this trend signals a global crisis, as tropical forests disappear at unprecedented rates, releasing massive greenhouse gases and threatening ecosystems and communities.

Mexico Showcases Sustainable Production Projects

The Sustainable Productive Territories Project (TPS), funded by the GEF and supported by the World Bank, promotes rural initiatives that integrate environmental sustainability into productive activities, benefiting over 46,000 producers across Mexico. SEMARNAT leaders emphasized the importance of empowering local communities and leveraging their knowledge to protect natural and cultural resources. The recent fair showcased sustainable products like cacao, honey, and coffee, demonstrating how eco-friendly production supports both ecosystem restoration and community well-being.

Mexico Ranks 10th Globally in E-Waste Generation

Electronic waste is increasing rapidly worldwide, with Mexico ranking 10th globally and third in the Americas for e-waste generation, producing about 1.5Mt annually, according to Heberto Ferreira, UNAM. Improper disposal of e-waste releases toxic leachate that contaminates soil and water, posing irreversible environmental risks, while only 22.3% of global e-waste was recycled responsibly in 2022. Ferreira recommends extending device lifespans, promoting circular economy practices, and participating in collection programs like Mexico City’s "Reciclatrones" to mitigate the environmental impact.

Nuevo Leon Launches Environmental Division to Tackle Crimes

Nuevo Leon Governor Samuel García announced the creation of a new Environmental Division to criminally prosecute serious environmental offenses such as illegal dumping, deforestation, and pollution. The division will coordinate with state and federal agencies, including the National Guard and local forces, to strengthen enforcement and involve municipalities in a unified response. García also pledged to propose Penal Code reforms to increase sentences for environmental crimes and close legal loopholes, receiving unanimous support from the Metropolitan Environmental Commission.