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Peruíbe, nestled along the southern coast of São Paulo state in Brazil, occupies a geographically complex position that significantly influences its air quality. Situated at approximately -24.32° latitude and -46.99° longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by a mix of coastal plains, rolling hills, and remnants of the Serra do Mar mountain range, creating a varied elevation profile. The Atlantic Ocean borders Perúibe to the east, moderating temperatures and influencing prevailing winds, but also introducing marine aerosols. The city’s location within the wider Santos-Guarujá metropolitan area places it within a region experiencing considerable industrial activity, particularly related to petrochemicals and port operations. To the west, the landscape transitions into agricultural zones, primarily sugarcane cultivation, which can contribute to localized emissions. Perúibe’s urban fabric is a blend of dense residential areas, industrial zones concentrated near the port, and expanding peripheral settlements. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural land quickly abutting urban development. This proximity to both industrial and agricultural sources, combined with the coastal topography which can trap pollutants, creates a unique set of challenges for air quality management. The city’s position within the broader Southeast Brazilian industrial belt means it is susceptible to transboundary pollution events originating from larger urban centers further inland. The surrounding landscape, a mosaic of coastal forests and agricultural fields, further complicates atmospheric dispersion patterns.

Peruíbe’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting its air quality dynamics. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, often witnesses a relative improvement in air quality due to increased wind speeds and reduced humidity. These winds, frequently originating from the south, help disperse pollutants accumulated during the wetter months. However, this period can also see increased particulate matter from agricultural burning, particularly related to sugarcane fields, although regulations aim to mitigate this. The wet season, from October to March, is characterized by higher humidity, frequent rainfall, and reduced wind speeds. This combination fosters stagnant air conditions, particularly during periods of temperature inversion, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air and pollutants near the ground. Fog, common during the wet season, further exacerbates this issue, reducing visibility and concentrating pollutants. Months like November and December often experience the poorest air quality due to a combination of these factors. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during these periods, limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring local air quality information. While rainfall generally helps cleanse the atmosphere, the sheer volume of industrial emissions can overwhelm this natural process. The interplay of these meteorological factors creates a cyclical pattern of air quality fluctuations throughout the year, demanding adaptive mitigation strategies.