Green City Guide: Mexico City

Mexico City is one of the world's largest metropolitan areas -- and unfortunately, one of the world's most polluted. Nearly all air pollutants here are at levels more than two or three times international standards. The good news is city officials are starting to take note. Most recently, the municipal transport and road ministry announced a phase-out of the iconic green and white Volkswagen Bug taxis, or Vochos, by 2012, ruling them less safe and responsible for more pollution than any modern vehicle. Also in 2012, in a concerted effort to lower the rising number of car commuters in the city, officials plan to unveil 186 miles of bike paths.

Despite the air, Mexico City's options for going green on the ground abound. From local food to transit options, a few tips can trim your travel footprint so you can soak up the rich cultural offerings with peace of mind. Learn more about Mexico's green policies, news, and activities in TreeHugger's Mexico archives.

1. Take the Metro

With 175 stations, the inexpensive Metro is the fastest way to get around the city, but uncomfortably crowded during the morning and evening rush and a favorite hang-out for pickpockets. Keep your wits about you and avoid peak times for the best experience.

2. Take MetroBus, Mexico City's Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)

The MetroBus, Mexico City's Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, runs on clean-burning, ultra-low sulfur diesel, and is the most convenient way to travel up and down Avenida Insurgentes, the city's main north-south thoroughfare. Buy a card at any station and then charge it up with pesos before swiping to enter.

3. Stay at Hotel Catedral, La Casona, or CondesaDF

The "green revolution" hasn't exactly caught on in the city's hotel scene yet. Still, here are a few notable lodging offerings close to main attractions, so you won't be traveling far. The Hotel Catedral offers good value and is located in the Historic Center. The moderately priced La Casona is a cozy, comfortable hotel in the lively Roma neighborhood. CondesaDF is a super-hip boutique design hotel with rooftop sushi bar and an ultra-modern aesthetic.

4. Rent a Bike

Despite the crowds and loco drivers, biking around Mexico City can be faster and less stressful than public transportation. Sign up for a free bike (with deposit) through the recently launched bike sharing program, Mejor En Bici and head for the ciclovía, the 56 mile bike trail that follows the old bed of the Cuernavaca railroad to the Morelos border. 5. Dine at a Green Restaurant Cheap eats are easy to come by in Mexico City. In the Condesa neighborhood, the Green Corner is both an organic grocery with fresh local produce and a restaurant, Origenes Organicos is an intimate café with local, organic meals and outdoor seating on a picturesque plaza. The latter is also home to a small market, with shelves packed full of local and imported organic items. Tao is an excellent macrobiotic vegan restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. Vege Taco, at Calle Carrillo Puerto 65, cross street Alberto Zamora, Col. Coyoacan, is where vegetarians can finally indulge in the grilled tacos that meat-eaters rave about. Try the Tacos al Pastor. A bit more expensive, Yug offers fresh, vegetarian