The quality of the air we breathe is fundamental to the quality of life
for the growing millions of people living in the world's burgeoning
megacities. In this book, experts in atmospheric sciences, human health,
economics, social and political sciences contribute to an integrated
assessment of the complex elements needed to structure air quality
policy in the 21st century. The analysis is developed through a case
study of the Mexico City Metropolitan Area - one of the world's largest
megacities in which air pollution grew unchecked for decades. The
international research team is led by Luisa T. and Mario J. Molina,
Nobel Laureate in Chemistry. Improvements in Mexico City's air quality
in the last decade testifies to the power of determined and enlightened
policy making, and throws into relief the tough problems that remain to
be solved.
The volume's first six chapters, including the contributions of over 50
distinguished scholars from Mexico and the US, outline the fundamental
areas of knowledge policy makers must accommodate. The message is that
only good science and well-chosen technologies can direct the way to
corrective regulatory measures; but without strong commitment from
government, no amount of science or technology can help.
In presenting what is known about the causes and consequences of air
pollution in this megacity, the authors highlight what needs to be done.
Many key areas of measurement and methodology for consistently and
accurately assessing air quality and its effects still require
refinement.
The volume concludes with an extensive list of policy recommendations,
emphasizing the value of integrated assessment and a long-term
perspective. Intended for the guidance of policy makers in the Mexico
Megacity, these recommendations form a provocative challenge to the
leadership of other megacities with looming air pollution issues.
While each city - its problems, resources, and perspectives - is unique,
the need for an integrated assessment of complex environmental problems
is the same. The case study presented in this book demonstrates ways to
work toward the comprehensive knowledge needed to build robust policy.
