Author(s)

A. Ivanova, A. Bermudez, A. Martinez, A. Montaño

Abstract

In the City of La Paz, Mexico, there is growing concern amongst the local population regarding a decline in the local air quality. This paper presents the main results of an air pollutants emissions inventory by source category recently completed as a first step to assess the local air quality in La Paz. The reference year for the inventory is 2013 and includes the emission trends for six major air pollutants, and the analyses of four emission source categories. The pollutants included in the inventory are sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), respirable suspended particulates (RSP or PM10), fine suspended particulates (FSP or PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOC), and carbon monoxide (CO). The inventory considers point, area, mobile on-road and natural sources.

The conclusions point out electricity generation and the exaggerated number of cars per capita as the main emissions’ sources. Some recommendations are presented for the local authorities such as an Air Quality and Emissions Reduction Plan up to 2025: e.g. imposition of statutory emission caps on power plants, implementation of renewable energies and mandatory annual roadworthiness and exhaust pipe emissions tests for on-road vehicles.

Keywords

emissions inventory, air pollutants, La Paz, Mexico