### Tijuana’s Air Quality Monitoring Lags Behind: Only 1 of 6 Pollutants Detected
#### Primary Article
The air quality monitoring system in Tijuana is operating under significant limitations, according to José Carmelo Zavala Álvarez, director of the Center for Innovation and Environmental Management (CIGA). Currently, the system can only detect one out of the six key pollutants recognized for impacting air quality. The monitoring equipment is designed to measure particulate matter of 2.5 microns only, overlooking other critical pollutants like nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, and 10-micron suspended particles.
Zavala Álvarez highlighted the system’s lack of comprehensive data collection, which severely undermines efforts to tackle air pollution in the region. The system relies on 14 devices, originally donated by U.S. authorities 14 years ago, but only 4 to 6 are fully operational. None are located in the eastern part of Tijuana, where air quality issues are prevalent.
The transportation sector, with a vehicle population of 2 million, is identified as the primary source of pollution in the area. Zavala Álvarez urged the reinstatement of vehicle verification centers to curtail emissions and improve air quality.
In October, the Baja California Secretariat of Environment and Sustainable Development (SMADS) issued ten atmospheric alerts due to the poor air quality in Tijuana, warning the residents about the health risks of outdoor activities. These alerts are part of a larger effort to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of air pollution on health.
#### Secondary Article
Several environmental organizations have voiced concerns over Tijuana’s inadequate air monitoring system. Experts emphasize the critical need for modernizing equipment to address the city’s growing pollution problem effectively. They argue that the outdated technology cannot keep pace with the rapid increases in vehicle emissions.
Local environmental advocates stress that the lack of accurate data hinders policy-making and public health initiatives. With pollutants like nitrogen oxides and ozone going undetected, residents are unaware of the potential health risks, which can lead to increased respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Alice Ramirez, an environmental scientist, noted, “Without the capability to monitor a full spectrum of pollutants, the city’s efforts to mitigate air quality issues are effectively shooting in the dark.”
Environmental organizations are now calling for international cooperation to secure updated technologies and implement stricter emission regulations. They also advocate for community awareness campaigns to educate the public on reducing their carbon footprint, urging citizens to consider alternative transportation options.
These efforts, alongside governmental initiatives, could pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future for Tijuana.