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Bandar-e ‘Asalūyeh, nestled on the coast of the Persian Gulf in Būshehr Province, Iran, occupies a geographically significant position at the northern edge of the Khuzestan oil and gas fields. Its coordinates (27.4744, 52.6114) place it within a subtropical climate zone, characterized by arid conditions and intense solar radiation. The city’s terrain is relatively flat, bordering a sandy coastline and gradually rising towards the interior, where low hills and plains dominate the surrounding landscape. This topography, combined with the prevailing wind patterns, can contribute to localized air quality challenges. The immediate surroundings are a mix of coastal ecosystems, including mangrove forests which offer some natural filtration, and increasingly, industrial infrastructure related to the petroleum sector. Asalūyeh serves as a crucial hub for Iran’s petrochemical industry, with numerous refineries and processing plants concentrated in the area, creating a distinct urban-industrial gradient. The rural areas surrounding the city are primarily agricultural, supporting date palm cultivation and other drought-resistant crops. The proximity to the Persian Gulf introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures slightly but also potentially introducing saltwater aerosols into the atmosphere. The urban character is rapidly evolving, transitioning from a smaller coastal settlement to a burgeoning industrial city, with associated changes in land use and population density, all of which impact the local air quality dynamics. The city’s location within a major hydrocarbon-rich region inherently links its environmental profile to industrial emissions.

Asalūyeh’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its subtropical climate and the region’s meteorological conditions. The warmer months, typically from May to September, are characterized by intense solar heating and reduced precipitation, leading to atmospheric stability and frequent temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality concerns, particularly from industrial sources. Dust storms, originating from the Arabian Peninsula, are also more common during this period, further degrading air quality and reducing visibility. The cooler months, from October to April, generally see improved air quality due to increased wind speeds and more frequent rainfall, which helps to disperse pollutants. However, periods of fog, particularly in late autumn and early winter, can temporarily reduce air quality by trapping emissions. The monsoon season, though less pronounced than in other parts of Asia, still influences wind patterns, bringing occasional relief from stagnant air. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the warmer months, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods, typically mid-morning and early afternoon. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is also advisable. The transition seasons, spring and autumn, offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor recreation, with moderate temperatures and generally better air quality, though dust events remain a possibility. Careful monitoring of local conditions and adherence to public health advisories are always recommended.