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Herentals, nestled in the province of Flemish Brabant, Belgium, occupies a geographically strategic position within the Kempen (Campine) region. This area is characterised by relatively flat, sandy terrain, a legacy of glacial and fluvial processes. The city sits approximately 30 meters above sea level, influencing local wind patterns and pollutant dispersion. Herentals is bisected by the Kleine Nete river, a tributary of the Scheldt, which provides some natural ventilation but also contributes to humidity, potentially exacerbating particulate matter issues. Surrounding Herentals is a mix of agricultural land – historically dominated by arable farming – and increasingly, residential sprawl extending from the larger urban centres of Antwerp and Leuven. To the west lies a more densely populated and industrialised zone, impacting prevailing wind directions and the potential for long-range pollutant transport. The urban-rural gradient is noticeable; while Herentals itself is a growing town, it’s immediately bordered by open farmland. This proximity means agricultural activities, including fertiliser use and livestock farming, contribute to ammonia emissions, a precursor to secondary particulate formation. The city’s location within a broader lowland area limits atmospheric mixing, occasionally trapping pollutants, particularly during stable weather conditions. Understanding this interplay of landscape, water features, and regional development is crucial for assessing Herentals’ air quality challenges.

Herentals experiences a temperate maritime climate, resulting in distinct seasonal air quality patterns. Winter (December-February) often sees poorer air quality due to increased residential heating with wood and fossil fuels, coupled with temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. Calm, foggy conditions are frequent, further concentrating particulate matter. Spring (March-May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and heating demand decreases, but agricultural activities begin to ramp up, increasing ammonia emissions. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, aided by prevailing westerly winds that disperse pollutants and higher temperatures promoting atmospheric mixing. However, heatwaves can trigger ground-level ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) is a transitional period. As heating systems are reactivated, pollution levels begin to climb again, often exacerbated by damp, stagnant weather. October and November are typically the worst months. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and autumn. Monitoring pollen counts is also important in spring. Avoiding peak traffic hours and staying informed about local air quality reports are recommended year-round. The interplay of meteorological conditions and seasonal activities dictates the city’s air quality calendar.