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Jardim Alegre, nestled in the state of Paraná, Brazil, occupies a strategically important position within the broader Southern Brazilian landscape. Located at approximately -24.1789° latitude and -51.6919° longitude, the city sits within a gently undulating plateau region, characteristic of Paraná’s interior. The terrain is primarily rolling hills and plains, a legacy of ancient erosion, with elevations generally ranging between 300 and 500 meters above sea level. This moderate elevation contributes to localized temperature inversions, particularly during cooler months, which can trap pollutants near the ground. Jardim Alegre is surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural land, predominantly dedicated to soybean, maize, and sugarcane cultivation – key drivers of the regional economy. This proximity to intensive agricultural practices introduces potential sources of particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from pesticide application and agricultural burning, although regulations aim to mitigate these impacts. The city’s urban footprint is relatively compact, exhibiting a clear urban–rural gradient as one moves outwards. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, the region benefits from several smaller streams and tributaries, influencing local humidity and microclimates. The absence of significant industrial belts immediately surrounding Jardim Alegre reduces the risk of heavy industrial pollution, but transportation corridors connecting it to larger urban centers like Londrina and Ponta Grossa can introduce transient pollution episodes. The surrounding landscape is a mix of pastureland, cultivated fields, and patches of remnant Atlantic Forest, impacting local wind patterns and influencing the dispersion of pollutants.

Jardim Alegre experiences a humid subtropical climate, resulting in distinct seasonal patterns that significantly influence 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, periods of prolonged rainfall can also lead to increased mold and fungal spore concentrations, impacting respiratory health. The dry season, from April to September, presents a different set of challenges. Reduced rainfall and lower humidity create conditions conducive to the accumulation of pollutants. Temperature inversions are more common during the cooler months (June-August), trapping emissions close to the ground, particularly in the mornings. Agricultural burning, though regulated, can still occur during this period, releasing significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter. Wind patterns are generally variable, but periods of calm conditions exacerbate pollution build-up. The months of July and August often see the poorest air quality due to the combination of temperature inversions and potential agricultural activity. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor exertion during these periods. During the wetter months, those with allergies should monitor pollen and mold counts. Overall, maintaining awareness of weather forecasts and local air quality reports is crucial for making informed decisions about outdoor activities throughout the year. The transition periods (April/May and September/October) typically offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor recreation.