Industrialization and its environmental impact on health and pollution in the Santiago River Basin of Mexico

Abstract Industrialization in Mexico during the 1970s transformed the Lerma-Chapala-Santiago basin into a major industrial hub, due to its abundant water resources. However, rapid industrial growth led to severe air, soil, and water pollution due to uncontrolled emissions and inadequate waste management practices. Concurrently, rising labor demands spurred residential expansion, yet essential services—such as education, healthcare, and urban infrastructure—failed to keep pace. The adoption of agro-industrial models further exacerbated environmental degradation through intensive agrochemical use. As a result, the Santiago River and its tributaries became heavily contaminated, rendering their waters unsafe for human consumption. This review highlights critical knowledge gaps related to airborne toxins from the polluted river spread through adjacent communities, and which industries contribute most to the toxic burden pollution, emphasizing their detrimental impacts on public health in affected communities. The evidence presented suggests that Mexico’s current regulatory framework remains insufficient to address air pollution comprehensively, underscoring the urgent need for policy reform.