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Paragominas, nestled in the eastern Amazon rainforest of Pará state, Brazil, occupies a unique geographic position. Located at -2.9950, -47.3528, the city sits on relatively flat terrain, typical of the Amazon basin, with an elevation generally below 50 meters. This low elevation contributes to potential humidity and stagnant air conditions. The city is bisected by several small rivers and streams, tributaries of the Capim River, influencing local microclimates and potentially aiding in the dispersion of some pollutants, though also creating areas of increased moisture. Paragominas has historically been a centre for bauxite mining and alumina refining, industries that have significantly shaped its urban character and, crucially, its air quality. Surrounding the urban core is a gradient transitioning from densely forested areas to agricultural lands, primarily pasture for cattle ranching and increasingly, soy cultivation. This agricultural expansion, often involving slash-and-burn practices, is a major source of particulate matter. The urban-rural fringe is blurred, with many residents engaged in both agricultural activities and urban employment. The proximity to the Amazon rainforest, while providing a vital carbon sink, doesn’t fully mitigate the impacts of local industrial and agricultural emissions, creating a complex air quality profile.

Paragominas experiences a pronounced wet and dry season, dictating the rhythm of its air quality. The dry season, typically from July to December, sees a significant increase in particulate matter pollution. This is largely due to increased agricultural burning for land clearing, coupled with reduced rainfall to wash pollutants from the atmosphere. Smoke from these fires, often travelling long distances, accumulates, impacting respiratory health. August and September are particularly challenging months. Conversely, the wet season (January to June) brings relief, with frequent rainfall effectively cleansing the air. However, even during the wet season, emissions from the alumina refinery and ongoing, albeit reduced, agricultural activity contribute to background levels of pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during the transition periods between wet and dry seasons, can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. High humidity throughout the year can also contribute to the formation of secondary pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and monitor their health closely. Fog, prevalent during the wet season, can also carry pollutants, though generally at lower concentrations.