A researcher from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Ricardo Torres Jardón, has raised concerns about the efficacy of the Hoy No Circula program in addressing pollution in Mexico City (CDMX) and the State of Mexico (Edomex). According to Torres, the program’s impact has diminished, particularly in light of increasing ozone levels that are exacerbated by pollutants from both indoor sources, such as household chemicals, and outdoor emissions from gas stations. He suggests that these factors contribute to a situation where the Hoy No Circula initiative fails to produce significant improvements in air quality.

Torres Jardón emphasizes that the program, designed to restrict vehicle use in order to reduce air pollution, may not be sufficient to combat the multifaceted nature of pollution in the metropolitan area. He argues that the way pollution is currently generated—through everyday household activities and emissions from vehicles—requires a more diversified strategy to effectively manage air quality. Moreover, he points out that the conditions in the metropolitan region have led to an increase in the concentration of pollutants, undermining the goals that Hoy No Circula was originally intended to address.

The discussion around Hoy No Circula presents an opportunity to reevaluate traditional approaches to air quality management in Mexico City and Edomex. As pollution levels continue to rise, this analysis could have significant implications for public health policy and environmental strategies. With more innovative and comprehensive solutions needed to tackle the persistent air quality issues, stakeholders may need to consider a broader set of interventions beyond vehicle restrictions in order to achieve tangible improvements in air standards and public health outcomes.