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Andenne, nestled in the heart of Wallonia, Belgium, occupies a geographically significant position along the Sambre River, a tributary of the Scheldt. Its coordinates (50.4833, 5.1000) place it within a gently undulating landscape, characterized by the Meuse valley’s fluvial plain. The city’s terrain is relatively flat, sloping gradually towards the river, which has historically shaped its urban development and facilitated transportation. Andenne sits within the broader Borinage region, a historically significant coal-mining area, though mining activity has largely ceased. This legacy, however, influences the surrounding land use, with pockets of reclaimed industrial land interspersed with agricultural fields – primarily pasture and arable land used for crops like barley and sugar beets. The urban–rural gradient around Andenne is relatively smooth; the city blends seamlessly into the agricultural landscape, with smaller villages and hamlets dotting the countryside. The Sambre River itself acts as a natural boundary and a corridor for potential pollutant transport. To the east, the landscape rises slightly, offering some shielding from prevailing westerly winds, but also creating localized areas where air stagnation can occur. The proximity to the industrial belt of Wallonia, particularly the areas around Charleroi, means Andenne is susceptible to transboundary pollution. The surrounding landscape is predominantly rural, with forests and meadows contributing to some natural air filtration, though the historical industrial footprint continues to impact the regional air quality profile.

Andenne’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by meteorological conditions. Winter months (December-February) often present the greatest challenges. Cold temperatures lead to increased domestic heating reliant on fossil fuels, contributing to elevated particulate matter concentrations. Furthermore, frequent temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating the problem. Fog, common during these months, further reduces atmospheric mixing, intensifying the impact. Spring (March-May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and wind speeds increase, dispersing pollutants. However, agricultural activities, such as fertilizer application, can introduce ammonia into the air. Summer (June-August) generally sees the best air quality, with warm temperatures promoting atmospheric stability and frequent rainfall washing pollutants from the air. However, periods of prolonged heat and drought can lead to increased ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. Autumn (September-November) marks a transition period, with cooler temperatures and increased rainfall initially improving air quality, but later months often see a return of temperature inversions and increased biomass burning from agricultural practices. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter and early spring, limiting outdoor activity on days with stagnant air or fog. During warmer months, monitoring for ozone alerts is advisable, particularly during heatwaves. The Sambre River’s influence can also contribute to localized humidity and fog, impacting pollutant dispersion throughout the year.