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Betânia, nestled in the Zona da Mata region of Pernambuco, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within a landscape characterized by rolling hills and a transition zone between the Atlantic Forest biome and the arid Northeast. Located at approximately -8.2767° latitude and -38.0339° longitude, the city’s elevation averages around 350 meters above sea level, contributing to a generally mild climate. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of small-scale agriculture, primarily sugarcane cultivation and fruit orchards, interspersed with remnants of the Atlantic Forest. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to localized air pollution through the burning of agricultural waste, particularly during harvest seasons. Betânia’s proximity to the Capibaribe River, though not directly adjacent, influences regional humidity and precipitation patterns. The urban fabric of Betânia is relatively compact, exhibiting a gradual urban-rural gradient as one moves outwards. The city’s position within the Zona da Mata places it within a corridor of moderate industrial activity, with larger industrial centers located further east towards Recife. This proximity means Betânia can experience downwind impacts from industrial emissions, although the distance mitigates the severity. The terrain, with its gentle slopes, can influence local wind patterns, potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The Atlantic Forest fragments surrounding the city act as a partial barrier, but also a potential source of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) which can react with other pollutants in sunlight to form ozone.

Betânia’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, significantly impacting air quality dynamics. The dry season, typically spanning from August to December, often sees a rise in particulate matter concentrations. This is largely attributable to agricultural burning practices, as farmers clear fields for planting. Reduced rainfall during this period also limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to persist longer. The lack of cloud cover increases solar radiation, promoting photochemical smog formation, particularly ozone, when combined with emissions from agricultural activities and any localized industrial sources. Conversely, the wet season (January to July) brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, which naturally scavenges pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. Stronger winds associated with convective storms also help disperse pollutants. Fog, though infrequent, can occur during cooler nights in the dry season, trapping pollutants near the ground and creating localized air quality concerns. During the transition months (May/June and November/December), fluctuating weather patterns can lead to unpredictable air quality episodes. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of agricultural burning. Limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring local air quality reports are advisable. The increased humidity during the wet season generally provides a respite, but heavy rainfall events can temporarily elevate particulate matter due to soil erosion and resuspension.