Abstract
<jats:p>This article highlights the relevance of monitoring particulate pollutants in cities as a key instrument to achieve sustainability goals, protect public health, and mitigate climate change. In this first part, the concepts and fundamentals of the measurement of atmospheric particles are presented, highlighting that fine particulate matter [PM2.5] represents one of the main health risks. Globally, the WHO estimates that air pollution causes around seven million premature deaths a year. In Mexico, more than 32,000 deaths per year are associated with poor air quality, with a significant contribution from mobile sources, responsible for a high proportion of pollutant emissions. In the State of Morelos, particularly in Cuernavaca, concentrations of PM10, PM2.5 and ozone have been recorded that exceed the regulated limits. From this context, the article focuses on Morelos as a case study to underscore the importance of monitoring and explore solutions such as the modal shift towards electrified railway systems between Cuernavaca and Mexico City.</jats:p>