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Villa Berthet, nestled within the Chaco Province of Argentina, occupies a geographically significant position within the Gran Chaco ecoregion. Located at approximately -27.2667° latitude and -60.4167° longitude, the city’s terrain is predominantly characterized by flat, low-lying plains, typical of the Chaco’s vast, subtropical grasslands. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 150 meters above sea level, contributing to a stable atmospheric layer that can, under certain conditions, trap pollutants. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the *Chaco seco* – a dry forest and savanna ecosystem – with extensive agricultural lands dedicated to soy cultivation and cattle ranching extending outwards. This agricultural activity is a key factor influencing regional air quality, with potential emissions from fertilizer application, pesticide spraying, and livestock operations. While Villa Berthet lacks immediate proximity to major rivers, it sits within a watershed influenced by intermittent streams and seasonal rainfall patterns. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city transitions quickly into agricultural fields and sparse vegetation. The regional position, far from major industrial belts, initially suggests lower industrial pollution, but the prevalence of agricultural practices and the potential for biomass burning during land clearing or agricultural waste management introduce localized air quality challenges. The flat topography and limited natural barriers can exacerbate the dispersion of pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed, impacting the city’s overall air quality profile.

Villa Berthet’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s subtropical climate. The wet season, typically spanning from November to March, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as precipitation washes away particulate matter and increased moisture helps to trap pollutants. However, intense storms can also stir up dust and contribute to short-term spikes in particulate pollution. The dry season, from April to October, presents a more complex picture. As rainfall decreases, the risk of agricultural burning increases, particularly during land preparation for the soybean harvest. This practice releases significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (June-August), trap pollutants near the ground, leading to periods of stagnant air and potentially elevated concentrations of airborne particles. Wind patterns are generally variable, but prolonged periods of calm conditions during the dry season can exacerbate pollution accumulation. The months of August and September often see the highest levels of particulate matter due to a combination of agricultural burning and temperature inversions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during these periods. During the wetter months, while overall air quality is generally better, individuals with pollen allergies should remain vigilant. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is crucial throughout the year, particularly during periods of elevated pollution.