Mexico City: Power, Equity, and Sustainable Development

When it comes to passing initiatives, new urban plans, or environmental regulations in Mexico, the vast array of opinions and interest groups competing against each other has redefined the concept of sustainability. This document argues that the push for sustainability in Mexico is largely used to justify political agendas that “have maintained traditional authoritarian rule and preserve the prevalent socioeconomic structure.” This can best be seen in the failed attempt to build an international airport on the outskirts of Mexico city. The project presented itself as a “sound environmental decision” to replace inefficient infrastructure with new, environmentally friendly buildings. However, it was later marked as a way to boost the real estate market, upsetting peasants in the municipality.