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Longjing, nestled within Jilin Province in northeastern China, occupies a geographically significant position. Located at coordinates 42.7667° N, 129.4333° E, the city is situated in a valley carved by the Songhua River, a major waterway influencing regional climate and transport. The surrounding landscape is characterised by rolling hills and low mountains, part of the Changbai Mountains’ foothills, creating a basin-like topography. This terrain, while aesthetically pleasing, contributes to air stagnation, particularly during colder months. Longjing’s elevation, averaging around 180 meters, isn’t exceptionally high, but sufficient to experience continental climate influences. The city’s urban character is evolving, transitioning from a primarily agricultural and forestry-based economy to include light industry. Surrounding Longjing are extensive agricultural zones, primarily corn and soybean cultivation, and pockets of smaller-scale industrial activity. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with farmland quickly giving way to denser residential and commercial areas. This proximity to agricultural land introduces potential for seasonal biomass burning contributing to particulate matter, while industrial emissions, though currently limited, pose a growing concern. The river valley’s orientation influences wind patterns, often channeling pollutants and exacerbating air quality issues.

Longjing experiences a pronounced seasonal air quality narrative dictated by its continental monsoon climate. Winters (November to February) are typically the most challenging, with consistently cold temperatures and frequent temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the ground. Reduced sunlight hours also limit atmospheric dispersion. Heating demands, reliant on coal in some areas, further contribute to particulate matter and sulfur dioxide concentrations. Spring (March to May) sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds become more frequent, though dust storms originating from the Gobi Desert can occasionally impact air quality. Summers (June to August) generally offer the cleanest air, benefiting from monsoon winds that flush out pollutants and increased rainfall that scavenges particles. However, localised thunderstorms can temporarily worsen conditions. Autumn (September to October) is a transitional period, with decreasing temperatures and calmer winds leading to a gradual decline in air quality. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during winter and early spring. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity on heavily polluted days and utilising air purifiers indoors are recommended. Fog, common in autumn and winter, can exacerbate respiratory issues.