¡Humo! ¡Alerta! La amenaza invisible de las quemas agrícolas

In the context of the interaction between natural systems and human activities, seasonal agricultural burning represents a phenomenon with significant impacts on public health and the environment. In addition to the immediate risk associated with uncontrolled fires, there are less obvious threats, such as the long-term consequences on human health due to exposure to invisible pollutants. During these events, the smoke generated, a complex mixture of gases and fine (PM2.5) and coarse (PM10) particles, varies in composition depending on the type of material burned and the combustion conditions. Particulate matter, especially the finest particles (PM2.5), is inhalable and can become deeply embedded in the lungs, contributing to various health problems. Reported effects include acute and chronic respiratory diseases and cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and gastrointestinal conditions. These impacts are intensified in rural and peri-urban areas where agricultural residue burning is common, highlighting the need to raise public awareness of the risks involved. This document analyzes the main socio-environmental impacts associated with the burning of agricultural biomass, to raise public awareness of the urgency of promoting alternative agricultural practices that minimize dependence on this technique, thus mitigating its detrimental effects on health and the environment.