Goussainville Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Goussainville, nestled within the Île-de-France region of France, occupies a strategically important location just northwest of Paris. Its coordinates (49.0325, 2.4747) place it on a relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the Parisian Basin, with an average elevation of around 138 meters. This low-lying geography, while facilitating urban development, presents challenges for air quality dispersion. The city’s proximity to Charles de Gaulle Airport, one of Europe’s busiest, is a defining feature, contributing significantly to localized air pollution through aircraft emissions. Surrounding Goussainville is a mosaic of agricultural land and light industrial zones, a typical urban-rural gradient common in the Île-de-France. To the south, the urban sprawl of Paris looms, impacting regional air quality patterns. The absence of significant natural barriers, such as mountains, means that pollutants can readily spread across the basin. While not directly bordering a major river, the proximity to the Canal Saint-Martin, though not a primary water source, influences local microclimates and can affect the behaviour of atmospheric pollutants. The landscape is predominantly agricultural, with fields of cereals and livestock farming interspersed with residential and commercial areas. This combination of airport activity, agricultural practices, and the broader Parisian urban context creates a complex interplay of factors influencing Goussainville’s air quality, making it susceptible to both localized and regional pollution events.

Goussainville’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle, largely dictated by meteorological conditions. Winter months (December-February) often see the poorest air quality due to temperature inversions. Cold, stable air becomes trapped near the ground, preventing the vertical dispersion of pollutants emitted from traffic, industry, and the airport. Fog, common during this period, further exacerbates the problem by trapping particulate matter. Spring (March-May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and wind speeds increase, aiding in pollutant dispersal. However, pollen levels also surge, impacting respiratory health. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with frequent sunshine, higher wind speeds, and convective mixing that effectively dilutes pollutants. However, heatwaves can lead to stagnant air and ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. Autumn (September-November) presents a transitional period, with decreasing sunlight and increasing humidity. The return of cooler temperatures can trigger temperature inversions, similar to winter, but often less severe. Outdoor activity is generally most favourable during the summer months, though heat advisories should be heeded. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter and periods of stagnant air, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and monitoring local air quality reports. The airport’s operational intensity remains consistent throughout the year, contributing a baseline level of pollution regardless of the season.