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Velika Gorica, nestled within Zagrebačka Županija, Croatia, occupies a strategically important position just northwest of Zagreb, the nation's capital. Its coordinates (45.7000, 16.0667) place it within a gently undulating landscape, characterized by fertile plains and rolling hills, a typical feature of the Pannonian Basin. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, facilitating urban sprawl and residential development, but the surrounding hills offer some degree of natural ventilation, though this is often limited by prevailing weather patterns. Velika Gorica sits approximately 138 meters above sea level, a moderate elevation that influences local temperature and atmospheric stability. The Sava River, a significant waterway, flows nearby, though its direct impact on the city’s air quality is less pronounced than that of surrounding land use. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; Velika Gorica transitions quickly from built-up areas to agricultural land, primarily used for crop cultivation and livestock farming. This proximity to agricultural zones introduces potential sources of ammonia and particulate matter, particularly during planting and harvesting seasons. Further afield, the industrial belt surrounding Zagreb exerts an influence, with occasional transport of pollutants carried by prevailing winds. The city’s location, while benefiting from its proximity to Zagreb’s economic opportunities, also means it shares in the broader regional air quality challenges, influenced by the larger metropolitan area’s emissions and meteorological conditions. The surrounding landscape, a mix of farmland and forested slopes, plays a role in pollutant dispersion, though its effectiveness varies seasonally.

Velika Gorica’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle, largely dictated by meteorological conditions. Spring (March-May) often brings a noticeable increase in particulate matter, stemming from agricultural activities like ploughing and fertilizer application, combined with increased pollen levels. The warming temperatures and occasional temperature inversions can trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating the issue. Summer (June-August) typically sees improved air quality due to increased convective mixing – warmer air rising and dispersing pollutants – and generally calmer winds. However, heatwaves can lead to stagnant air and ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. Autumn (September-November) presents a complex picture. While wind patterns tend to be more favourable for dispersion than in spring, agricultural burning, though regulated, can still contribute to particulate pollution. The cooler temperatures can also lead to fog formation, trapping pollutants near the surface. Winter (December-February) is often the most challenging period. Cold, stable air masses frequently lead to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air, preventing vertical mixing and trapping pollutants. This, combined with increased heating demand (often reliant on solid fuels in some households), results in elevated levels of particulate matter and other pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during periods of stagnant air, particularly in winter and during agricultural peak seasons. Monitoring local weather forecasts and air quality reports is crucial for informed decision-making regarding outdoor exercise and activities.