Study Detects Pollutants Above Allowed Limits Near UANL

A recent study conducted by the Environmental Technology Center found that particulate matter concentrations in the area surrounding Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL) exceeded permitted limits, with PM2.5 levels reaching up to four times the established maximum. The analysis also detected substances such as lead, chromium, molybdenum and strontium, indicating possible links to nearby industrial activity.

According to the report, elevated pollutant levels may affect thousands of people who study or work in the area. Ciudad Universitaria (UANL’S central campus) alone registers an estimated mobility of 218,000 people per day, in addition to military and athletic facilities. The analysis reported that concentrations of PM10 in several points surpassed limits recommended by the Health Ministry, while PM2.5 surpassed allowable values by up to 400% in certain points.

Particle composition included elements such as silicon, oxygen, aluminum, calcium, sodium and potassium, which may originate from dust, construction or nearby industry. The study also found lead and chromium, described as potentially toxic, and recommended further investigation. “If you breathe air with a lot of particles for a long period of time, this might affect lung health. If in addition, particles contain heavy metals like lead, it increases the risk,” the report stated.

Following the disclosure of the findings, local legislators called for federal intervention. Claudia Caballero, Deputy, PAN, requested that Profepa investigate surrounding companies and criticized government inaction. Moreover, Sandra Pámanes, Coordinator, Movimiento Ciudadano, and Mario Soto, Deputy, Morena called for coordinated actions by federal, state and municipal authorities to supervise industries and enforce regulations. Meanwhile, Claudia Chapa, President, Environment Commission of Nuevo Leon, requested the resignation of the state environment secretary, citing a lack of results.

Students reported physical discomfort potentially linked to air conditions, including throat pain, stomach discomfort and allergy-like reactions. Furthermore, the Environmental Technology Center emphasized the need for further investigation of pollutant sources and for measures aimed at reducing exposure to particulate matter in the zone.