The significant economic growth and industrial development in Mexico in recent decades have caused a number of environmental problems. Compared to other Latin American countries, Mexico has an exemplary environmental legislation and advanced strategies for environmental protection.

However, these laws, are not rigorously implemented and monitored, especially not at the municipal level. Efficient enforcement of the environmental legislation is hindered, due to lack of technical and managerial skills, as well as difficulties in the financing of infrastructure and absence of adequate concepts for their continuity.

The framework of the Urban Environmental Management considers a wide range of possible topics ranging from urban mobility and land use, to institutional strengthening and environmental education; including issues of integrated water and solid waste management, air and soil pollution, urban development and rehabilitation of green areas, among others.