Marcos Orellana, the UN special rapporteur on toxics and human rights, has reported that Mexico is facing a significant 'toxic crisis' due to its role as a dumping ground for hazardous waste from the United States. During his recent investigative mission, Orellana discovered that lax environmental standards and inadequate oversight have allowed pollution to accumulate, leading to over 1,000 officially recorded contaminated sites across the country. These 'sacrifice zones' are linked to rising health issues, including cancer and respiratory illnesses, particularly in areas like Monterrey and the industrial corridor of Tula in Hidalgo state. Orellana highlighted the influx of plastic and hazardous waste, including lead-acid car batteries, with little clarity on its final disposal. Local activists have echoed his concerns, calling for stronger enforcement of environmental protections. The Mexican government has acknowledged outdated regulatory standards and is working to implement new air monitoring systems and stricter waste import regulations. The upcoming review of the free trade agreement between Mexico, the US, and Canada offers a chance to improve environmental standards and combat the ongoing crisis.