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Quillota, nestled within the Valparaiso Region of Chile, occupies a geographically complex position that significantly influences its air quality. Located at approximately -32.8667° latitude and -71.2500° longitude, the city sits within a valley carved by the Aconcagua River, a characteristic feature of the central Chilean coastal range. The surrounding landscape is a dramatic interplay of steep, forested slopes and fertile agricultural plains, creating a distinct urban–rural gradient. Quillota’s elevation, around 350 meters above sea level, contributes to its susceptibility to temperature inversions, a key factor in trapping pollutants. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean moderates temperatures to some extent, but also introduces maritime influences like fog, which can exacerbate air stagnation. Industrially, Quillota and the surrounding area form part of a broader industrial belt concentrated along the central Chilean coast, with significant activity in pulp and paper production, metalworking, and food processing. These industries contribute directly to local emissions. The agricultural zone surrounding Quillota, characterized by fruit orchards and vineyards, also contributes to air quality challenges, particularly through the use of pesticides and the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from ripening fruit. The valley’s topography restricts airflow, further hindering the dispersion of pollutants, making Quillota’s air quality particularly sensitive to both local and regional emission sources. The Aconcagua River itself, while providing a water source, can also act as a transport pathway for pollutants under certain conditions.

Quillota’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Chile’s Mediterranean climate. The dry summer months (December to February) are typically the most challenging. High-pressure systems dominate, leading to stable atmospheric conditions and frequent temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, resulting in periods of stagnant air and elevated concentrations of particulate matter and other emissions from industrial and agricultural activities. Fog, common during these months, further reduces visibility and exacerbates the problem by limiting pollutant dispersion. Spring (September to November) sees a gradual improvement as winds increase and the inversion layer weakens, though agricultural burning practices can still contribute to localized pollution events. Autumn (March to May) offers a relatively cleaner period, with more frequent wind events helping to disperse pollutants. However, cooler temperatures can also lead to increased residential heating, adding to emissions. Winter (June to August) brings increased rainfall, which helps to wash pollutants from the atmosphere, generally resulting in the best air quality of the year. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months, limiting outdoor activity during peak pollution periods. Agricultural workers should be particularly vigilant regarding pesticide exposure, utilizing appropriate protective equipment. Increased awareness and adherence to emission regulations are crucial throughout the year, but especially during the summer when the risk of poor air quality is highest.