Public Policies for the Protection of Urban Ecosystems: Green Spaces and Ecological Corridors as Keys to the Future

Urbanization has been a key driver of economic and social development in Mexico and the United States, but it has also placed significant pressure on urban ecosystems. In the face of this challenge, public policies focused on the creation of green spaces and ecological corridors have emerged as vital strategies to improve quality of life and foster biodiversity in cities. This article examines the progress made between 2020 and 2024 and the challenges to maximizing their impact in 2025.

Urban green spaces not only provide areas for recreation and leisure but are also essential for mitigating the effects of climate change, reducing pollution, and promoting mental health among residents. Ecological corridors, on the other hand, connect fragmented habitats, allowing species mobility and increasing ecosystem resilience.

Progress and Comparisons: 2020 VS 2024

In recent years, both countries have intensified efforts in this area, with notable but uneven results.

Mexico:

• In 2020, only 15% of major cities had formal programs for creating green spaces. By 2024, this figure rose to 32%, driven by initiatives such as the National Green Infrastructure Program.

• During the same period, the average urban green area coverage grew from 5 m² to 7.8 m² per inhabitant, although still below the WHO-recommended standard of 9 m².

• Ecological corridors saw a 40% increase in extent, thanks to projects in regions like the Megalopolis of Central Mexico.

United States:

• In 2020, 25% of cities had implemented comprehensive green infrastructure strategies. By 2024, this percentage rose to 42%, driven by federal and local programs.

• Green space coverage in U.S. cities increased from 12 m² to 14 m² per inhabitant, meeting or exceeding WHO-recommended levels in many areas.

• Ecological corridors, such as the iconic "Wildlife Crossings Program," grew by 30%, solidifying connections between national parks and urban areas.

Measurable Impacts:

Recent studies reveal that the expansion of green spaces and ecological corridors has reduced urban temperatures by up to 2°C in some cities and decreased air pollution by 10%. Additionally, citizen satisfaction surveys show a 20% increase in perceived well-being.

Challenges for Development in 2025

Despite these advances, the path to fully realizing the potential of urban ecosystems faces several obstacles:

1. Inequality in Distribution:

In Mexico, a significant gap persists between large cities and smaller towns. In the United States, low-income communities have less access to quality green spaces.

2. Insufficient Funding:

Although investments have increased, needs far exceed available budgets. This is especially critical in Mexican cities with limited resources.

3. Political and Social Resistance:

In both countries, green infrastructure projects have faced opposition from real estate interests or a lack of public awareness.

4. Climate Change:

Rising temperatures and extreme weather events threaten the sustainability of green spaces, demanding innovations in design and maintenance.

5. Binational Coordination:

Since many ecological corridors span transboundary regions, it is crucial to establish agreements between both countries to ensure their success.

Opportunities for the Future

The year 2025 represents an opportunity to consolidate these strategies through:

- The creation of binational funds for green infrastructure.

- The implementation of advanced technologies, such as sensors to monitor the health of urban ecosystems.

- Educational campaigns to raise public awareness about the benefits of these spaces.

With political will and international collaboration, Mexico and the United States have the potential to lead the transition toward greener, more resilient, and inclusive cities. The progress achieved so far is only the beginning of a journey that promises to transform urban landscapes into sources of life and well-being.

Written by: Editorial