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Campina Grande do Sul, nestled in the state of Paraná, Brazil, occupies a gently undulating terrain within the larger Paraná Plateau. Located at coordinates -25.3056, -49.0553, the city’s elevation contributes to specific microclimatic conditions influencing air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to soybean, corn, and wheat cultivation, interspersed with patches of Atlantic Forest remnants. This agricultural dominance is a key factor, as agricultural practices can contribute to particulate matter through soil disturbance and the use of fertilizers. The Ribeira River flows nearby, but its influence on local air circulation is limited by the topography. Campina Grande do Sul is situated within a region experiencing rapid urbanization, with increasing vehicular traffic and associated emissions. The city functions as a regional hub, drawing commuters and freight traffic, further impacting air quality. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural areas immediately bordering the city limits. Industrial activity is present, though less concentrated than in larger metropolitan areas of Paraná, but still contributes to localized pollution sources. The prevailing winds, generally from the south and southeast, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants depending on atmospheric stability.

Campina Grande do Sul experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by well-defined wet and dry seasons rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality generally improves during the wet season (October to March) due to increased rainfall which effectively washes particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, high humidity can also contribute to the formation of secondary pollutants. Pollution tends to peak during the dry season (April to September), when agricultural burning is more common, releasing significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter. August and September are typically the months with the poorest air quality due to this practice, combined with reduced rainfall and increased dust from drier soils. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months of June and July, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these periods. Fog, prevalent in the cooler mornings, can also trap pollutants. The prevailing southerly winds offer some relief, but their effectiveness is reduced during stable atmospheric conditions. Monitoring wind patterns and avoiding outdoor exertion during calm, dry periods is advisable.