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Shengaocun, nestled within Jiangsu Province, China, occupies a geographically significant position in the North China Plain. Located at coordinates 32.5844° N, 120.1336° E, the city’s terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the alluvial plains formed by the Yellow Sea and the Yangtze River delta. This flatness contributes to limited natural air dispersion. The city’s elevation is low, further exacerbating this issue. Shengaocun is situated approximately 60km northeast of Xuzhou, a major industrial hub, and benefits from proximity to the Grand Canal, a vital waterway for transport and commerce. However, this proximity also means potential for pollutants transported via the canal and surrounding transport networks. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of intensive agriculture – primarily wheat, corn, and cotton – and increasingly, light industrial activity. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with rapid industrial expansion encroaching upon previously agricultural land. This transition zone is a key source of particulate matter from construction and agricultural burning. The prevailing winds, often from the north and northwest during colder months, can carry pollutants from regional industrial centres directly over Shengaocun, impacting local air quality. The city’s location within a densely populated and economically active region presents ongoing challenges for maintaining clean air.

Shengaocun experiences a distinct four-season climate, profoundly influencing its air quality. Spring (March-May) sees increasing agricultural activity, including fertilizer application and crop residue burning, contributing to elevated particulate matter. Winds are often variable, sometimes trapping pollutants. Summer (June-August) brings the East Asian monsoon, offering periods of cleaner air due to rainfall and stronger winds, but also high humidity which can foster secondary pollutant formation. August can still experience stagnant conditions. Autumn (September-November) is typically the most challenging period. Reduced rainfall, cooler temperatures, and increased coal combustion for heating create stable atmospheric conditions and temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. November is often the worst month for air quality. Winter (December-February) is cold and dry, with frequent temperature inversions and limited wind dispersal. Coal burning for heating is at its peak, leading to high concentrations of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during autumn and winter. Springtime allergy sufferers should also be cautious. Favour outdoor activities during periods of strong monsoon winds in summer, but monitor conditions closely.