As part of ongoing efforts to improve the environment, the government of Mexicali, in coordination with the Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC), held the Binational Air Quality Forum.
Leading the opening ceremony, Mayor Norma Bustamante of Mexicali emphasized the importance of such events in addressing atmospheric challenges. “We are joining forces with U.S. authorities and academic institutions to develop this Binational Air Quality Forum, where we will hear opinions, share experiences, and build real solutions,” she stated.
She also highlighted some of the local government’s environmental initiatives, including: the air quality monitoring network, an old furniture collection program, the replacement of sodium streetlights with LED lighting, and business inspection operations.
The mayor also participated in the binational panel “Public Policies for a Sustainable Future” alongside Mayor Diana Nuricumbo of Calexico and Tadeo Azael De La Hoya, Vice Mayor of San Luis, Arizona. The conversation was moderated by Isadora Clark, President of the Baja California College of Biologists.
Tomás Hernández, Director of Environmental Protection, explained that the forum—held until 3:00 p.m. at the UABC Central Library building—covered the following topics:
- Public Health and Air Quality: Health impacts and multisectoral management
- Atmospheric Stability
- Challenges in Estimating Pollutant Emissions from Agricultural Waste Burning
- Agricultural Burning Policies in Imperial Valley
- Civil Society Actions to Address Environmental Pollution Challenges
