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Yulu, a county-level city in Guangdong Province, China, occupies a strategic position within the Pearl River Delta, a region renowned for its rapid economic development and dense urbanisation. Located at coordinates 23.4760° N, 116.3978° E, Yulu’s terrain is largely characterised by low-lying plains, typical of the deltaic environment, with a gentle slope towards the South China Sea. The city benefits from proximity to the Han River, a vital waterway for transportation and irrigation, but this also contributes to humidity and potential for stagnant air. Surrounding Yulu are extensive agricultural lands, particularly rice paddies, interspersed with increasingly prominent industrial zones focused on manufacturing and processing. The urban-rural gradient is becoming blurred as Yulu expands, absorbing surrounding villages and farmland. This rapid growth, coupled with the region’s subtropical climate, significantly impacts air quality. The Pearl River Delta is a major manufacturing hub, and Yulu, as part of this network, experiences emissions from factories, power plants, and vehicle traffic. The relatively flat topography limits natural air dispersion, and the coastal location can trap pollutants during periods of calm weather. The city’s position downwind of larger industrial centres also means it receives transported pollutants.

Yulu’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s subtropical monsoon climate. Spring (March-May) often sees increased humidity and occasional fog, trapping pollutants and leading to moderate air quality concerns, particularly from agricultural burning practices preparing fields for planting. Summer (June-August) brings the southwest monsoon, offering periods of cleaner air due to increased wind speeds and rainfall washing away pollutants. However, high temperatures and humidity can also promote the formation of ozone, a secondary pollutant. Autumn (September-November) is typically the most challenging period. The transition to drier conditions, coupled with cooler temperatures and temperature inversions, creates stable atmospheric conditions that trap pollutants from industrial activity and vehicle emissions. November is often the month with the most prolonged periods of poor air quality. Winter (December-February) experiences relatively cooler, drier air, but reduced wind speeds and continued industrial emissions can still lead to pollution build-up. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during autumn and winter. Monitoring forecasts and using air purification indoors are recommended during these periods. Avoiding peak traffic hours can also reduce exposure.