Dr. Francisco Bautista from the UNAM Environmental Geography Research Center has raised concerns about soil contamination in Mérida, particularly around the airport area. Although the situation is not yet critical, the city’s soil already shows signs of contamination.
On World Soil Day, Dr. Bautista emphasized that Yucatán’s soil is very thin and shallow, which means it does not protect the aquifer effectively. He explained that while deep, clayey soils in the south, known as kankab, can clean residual water and protect the aquifer, the majority of Yucatán’s soil is of the tzekel type, which does not offer the same protection.
Yucatán’s soils are found in mosaics, unlike other parts of the country where large areas consist of a single soil type. This complexity is often difficult for agronomists to understand. Dr. Bautista highlighted that the Mayan classification of soils, based on the wisdom of Mayan farmers, remains more accurate than modern agricultural science.
Dr. Bautista noted that urban soils are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in retaining contaminants and preventing them from reaching the aquifer. He warned that neglecting green spaces and vegetation in cities can lead to increased air pollution.
A recent study revealed that while Mérida does not have the same level of pollution as Mexico City or other industrial cities, there are already reports of heavy metals in the soil. The area around the airport is particularly polluted, with heavy metals accumulating in the body over time and potentially causing cancer.
To mitigate soil contamination, Dr. Bautista recommended keeping streets clean of dust and soil while ensuring they remain permeable to allow water filtration. He explained that soil contamination often results from the wear and tear of buildings, as paint contains lead, and automobile gases generate magnetic particles.
Dr. Bautista is set to publish a book on heavy metals, based on his studies in Mérida, Valladolid, Chetumal, Morelia, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Mexico City, Durango, and Baja California, covering a total of 14 cities in the country.
Source: Por Esto
