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Cambé, Paraná, Brazil, occupies a strategically important position within the state’s northern interior, a region characterized by a gradual transition from the Paraná River basin’s humid subtropical plains to the more undulating terrain of the Brazilian Highlands. Located at approximately -23.2758° latitude and -51.2778° longitude, the city sits at an elevation of roughly 530 meters (1,739 feet) above sea level, contributing to a slightly cooler climate compared to coastal areas. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive fields of soybeans, corn, and sugarcane dominating the rural areas immediately bordering Cambé. This agricultural intensity, while economically vital, introduces potential sources of air pollution, particularly during harvest seasons and fertilizer application periods. To the west, the landscape gently rises, hinting at the broader highland plateau. While Cambé itself lacks direct proximity to major rivers, it benefits from the regional network of streams and tributaries that feed into the larger Paraná River system. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city’s built environment quickly gives way to agricultural land, minimizing the typical urban heat island effect seen in larger metropolises. The absence of significant heavy industry within Cambé itself, coupled with its distance from major industrial belts concentrated further south in Paraná, generally results in a less polluted baseline. However, transportation corridors carrying goods to and from agricultural zones can contribute to localized pollution episodes. The prevailing winds, generally from the southeast, influence the dispersal of any pollutants generated within the city and its surrounding agricultural areas.

Cambé’s subtropical climate dictates a distinct seasonal pattern influencing air quality. The wet season, typically spanning from October to March, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as precipitation washes away particulate matter and dilutes gaseous pollutants. However, intense storms can temporarily elevate particulate levels due to wind-blown dust and soil. The dry season, from April to September, presents a different challenge. Reduced rainfall and lower humidity create conditions conducive to the accumulation of pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (June-August), trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality concerns. Agricultural burning, a practice sometimes employed for land clearing and crop residue disposal, is most prevalent during this period, significantly impacting air quality. Fog, particularly in July and August, further restricts pollutant dispersion. The months of August and September often experience the poorest air quality due to a combination of temperature inversions, agricultural practices, and reduced rainfall. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor activity during these periods. During the wet season, 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, especially during periods of elevated pollution. Awareness of regional agricultural practices and their potential impact on air quality is essential for informed decision-making regarding outdoor activities.