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Piên, nestled in the state of Paraná, Brazil, occupies a unique geographic position within the rolling hills of the Southern Plateau. Located at coordinates -26.0978, -49.4289, the city’s terrain is characterised by gentle slopes and valleys, an extension of the Serra Geral formation. This undulating landscape, at an elevation of approximately 650-750 meters, influences local air circulation patterns, potentially creating pockets of stagnant air. The city is situated relatively close to the Ivaí River, a significant waterway in the region, though not directly on its banks. Surrounding Piên is a predominantly agricultural landscape, dominated by soybean, corn, and wheat cultivation, alongside areas dedicated to livestock farming. This agricultural intensity is a key factor influencing air quality. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; Piên itself is a relatively small city with a population of 13,655, quickly transitioning to expansive farmland. While not a major industrial hub, the processing of agricultural products within and around Piên contributes to localised emissions. The prevailing winds, generally from the south and southwest, can transport pollutants from agricultural activities and smaller industrial operations towards the city centre, impacting air quality, particularly during dry periods when dust and particulate matter are easily dispersed.

Piên experiences a humid subtropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality in Piên is most compromised during the dry season, typically from May to September. This period sees reduced rainfall, leading to increased dust and particulate matter from agricultural lands – particularly during harvest and land preparation. Lower humidity also means pollutants have less chance of being washed out of the atmosphere. Temperature inversions, common during cool, calm nights, exacerbate the problem by trapping pollutants near ground level. February to April, the wet season, generally offers the best air quality as rainfall effectively cleanses the atmosphere. However, intense rainfall can also lead to localised flooding and the spread of agricultural runoff, potentially impacting water quality and indirectly affecting air quality through increased fungal spores. October and November represent a transitional period with fluctuating conditions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the drier months. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from agricultural areas signal potentially poorer air quality. Fog, common in the cooler months, can trap pollutants and reduce visibility, further impacting respiratory health.