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San Donato Milanese, nestled in the heart of Lombardy, Italy, occupies a strategically important position within the broader Milan metropolitan area. Located approximately 10 kilometers west of Milan’s city center (coordinates 45.4167, 9.2667), it sits on a gently undulating plain, part of the Po Valley, a vast sedimentary basin characterized by fertile agricultural land. The terrain is predominantly flat, facilitating urban sprawl and contributing to a relatively uniform distribution of air pollutants. The city’s elevation is low, around 90 meters above sea level, which, combined with the valley’s topography, can exacerbate air quality issues by trapping pollutants. San Donato’s proximity to Milan, a major industrial and commercial hub, means it’s directly influenced by the city’s emissions. To the north and east lie extensive agricultural zones, while the southern boundary gradually transitions into more suburban and residential areas. The Olona River flows nearby, though its influence on local air quality is limited due to its relatively small size and the prevalence of urban development along its banks. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with pockets of green space interspersed within the built environment, but the overall landscape is dominated by urban and agricultural land uses. This location, within a densely populated and industrialized region, inherently presents challenges for maintaining optimal air quality, particularly given the valley’s tendency to accumulate pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The surrounding landscape, while largely agricultural, is increasingly impacted by urban expansion and associated traffic.

San Donato Milanese experiences a distinct seasonal pattern in its air quality, largely dictated by meteorological conditions. Winter months (December-February) typically see the poorest air quality, driven by temperature inversions. Cold, stable air becomes trapped near the ground, preventing the vertical dispersion of pollutants emitted from industry, traffic, and residential heating. Fog, common during these months, further compounds the problem by trapping particulate matter. Spring (March-May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise, and wind speeds increase, facilitating pollutant dispersal. However, agricultural activities, such as fertilizer application, can contribute to localized ammonia emissions. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with frequent convective mixing and higher wind speeds effectively diluting pollutants. However, heatwaves can lead to stagnant air and ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. Autumn (September-November) presents a transitional period, with decreasing temperatures and increasing humidity. The combination of cooler air and reduced wind speeds can lead to periods of poor air quality, particularly in October and November, as the heating season begins. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should be particularly cautious during winter and early spring, limiting outdoor activity during periods of stagnant air or fog. During summer heatwaves, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during peak ozone hours is advisable. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can also be beneficial throughout the year.