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Bayur, nestled in the Minangkabau Highlands of West Sumatra, Indonesia, occupies a geographically significant position within a region characterized by dramatic topography and a rich agricultural landscape. Located at approximately -0.2610 latitude and 100.2220 longitude, the city sits at an elevation of around 1,350 meters (4,430 feet) above sea level, contributing to a consistently cooler climate compared to coastal Indonesian cities. The surrounding terrain is dominated by rolling hills and steep slopes, typical of the Bukit Barisan mountain range, which stretches across Sumatra. This mountainous environment influences local wind patterns, often creating localized areas of stagnant air, particularly within valleys. Bayur’s proximity to the Batang Air River provides a vital water source and influences humidity levels. The urban fabric of Bayur is relatively compact, reflecting its smaller population of 37,368. The city’s immediate surroundings are predominantly agricultural, with extensive coffee, tea, and clove plantations blanketing the hillsides. This agricultural activity, while economically important, can contribute to localized air pollution through the burning of vegetation during land clearing and fertilizer application. Further afield, the region is part of a broader agricultural belt extending across West Sumatra, and the urban–rural gradient transitions rapidly from the city’s core to the surrounding rural farmlands, impacting air quality through differing emission sources and dispersion characteristics. The valley location and surrounding highlands can trap pollutants, especially during periods of low wind speed.

Bayur’s tropical climate dictates a wet and dry season pattern, significantly influencing its air quality dynamics. The dry season, typically spanning from June to August, often sees a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributable to agricultural practices; farmers frequently employ slash-and-burn techniques to clear land for planting, releasing substantial amounts of smoke and ash into the atmosphere. Reduced rainfall during this period also limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to persist longer. Conversely, the wet season, from September to February, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as pollutants are washed from the atmosphere. However, periods of prolonged fog, common during the wet season, can trap moisture and pollutants near the ground, creating localized pockets of reduced visibility and potentially impacting respiratory health. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath warmer air, are less frequent than in temperate climates but can occur, particularly during the transition periods between seasons, exacerbating pollution. Wind patterns are generally influenced by the surrounding mountains, often resulting in variable wind speeds and directions. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, particularly from November to January. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and be mindful of periods of fog, regardless of the season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and considering the use of masks when air quality is visibly affected.