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Tbeng Meanchey, nestled in the Preah Vihear province of Cambodia, occupies a geographically significant position in the country’s northeast. Situated at coordinates 13.8167, 104.9667, the city’s terrain is characterised by gently rolling hills transitioning into the Cardamom Mountains to the southwest, and the plains extending towards Laos. The Sen River flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potentially contributing to localised temperature inversions. With a population of approximately 24,380, Tbeng Meanchey is a relatively small urban centre, exhibiting a strong urban-rural gradient. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with rice paddies and cashew plantations dominating the area. While not a major industrial hub, the increasing prevalence of small-scale brick kilns and agricultural burning contribute to particulate matter emissions. The city’s elevation, though not substantial, influences air circulation patterns. Its location near the border with Laos also means it can be affected by regional haze events, particularly during the dry season. The limited infrastructure for waste management and the reliance on biomass fuels for cooking further impact local air quality. Understanding these geographical factors is crucial for assessing and mitigating pollution challenges in Tbeng Meanchey.

Tbeng Meanchey experiences a distinct tropical monsoon climate, shaping its air quality patterns throughout the year. The dry season, from November to April, is typically when air quality deteriorates. Reduced rainfall means dust and particulate matter from agricultural activities – particularly land clearing and cashew processing – remain suspended in the air for longer. Increased use of biomass fuels for cooking and heating during cooler evenings exacerbates the problem. February and March are often the most challenging months. The onset of the wet season in May brings a significant improvement. Rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, the wet season (May to October) can also see localised flooding, potentially releasing pollutants from stagnant water. August and September, during the peak of the monsoon, generally offer the cleanest air. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler dry season mornings, trap pollutants near ground level. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in the early mornings and evenings. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial, as winds from neighbouring agricultural areas can transport smoke and dust into the city.