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Sendawar, nestled within the East Kalimantan province of Sumatera Utara, Indonesia, occupies a geographically complex position. Situated at coordinates 2.1833, 98.3833, the town lies within a broad river valley, heavily influenced by the Mahakam River and its tributaries. The surrounding landscape is predominantly lowland rainforest, transitioning into hilly terrain further inland. This terrain significantly impacts air quality, creating localized pockets of stagnant air, particularly during periods of low wind. Sendawar’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to humidity and potential temperature inversions. The urban area itself is characterized by a rapidly developing urban-rural gradient, with expanding settlements encroaching upon forested areas. Agriculture, particularly palm oil plantations, dominates the regional economy and contributes to seasonal burning, a major source of particulate matter. While not a major industrial hub, small-scale mining and processing activities are present, adding to localized pollution. The proximity to the Mahakam River offers some natural dispersion, but also concentrates pollutants during periods of calm weather. The town’s location within the equatorial belt means consistent high temperatures and humidity, influencing chemical reactions in the atmosphere and pollutant behaviour. Understanding this interplay of geography and activity is crucial for addressing air quality concerns in Sendawar.

Sendawar experiences a tropical climate defined by distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically from June to September, sees a significant increase in air pollution. This is largely due to widespread land and forest clearing, often employing slash-and-burn techniques for agricultural expansion, particularly palm oil plantations. These fires release substantial amounts of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), causing haze and respiratory irritation. Low wind speeds during this period exacerbate the problem, trapping pollutants near the ground. October and November mark the transition to the wet season, with increased rainfall gradually washing away accumulated pollutants, leading to improved air quality. The wet season, lasting from December to May, generally offers cleaner air, although localized flooding can contribute to mold and bacterial growth, impacting indoor air quality. Temperature inversions, common in the mornings, can trap pollutants even during the wet season. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the peak of the dry season. Monitoring wind patterns and avoiding areas near active fires are crucial preventative measures. The months of December to February generally present the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities.