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Valenzano, nestled in the province of Bari, Puglia, Italy, occupies a geographically significant position within the Apulian Murgia region. Located at approximately 41.05° N, 16.88° E, the town sits on a gently sloping plateau, part of the broader Alta Murgia National Park, a landscape characterized by undulating hills, karst formations, and extensive grasslands. Its elevation, averaging around 250 meters above sea level, contributes to localized microclimates and influences air circulation patterns. Valenzano’s proximity to the Adriatic Sea, roughly 20 kilometers to the east, introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures but also potentially carrying coastal pollutants inland under specific wind conditions. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with olive groves, vineyards, and cereal fields dominating the rural areas. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, can contribute to particulate matter emissions, particularly during harvesting and tilling seasons. The urban–rural gradient around Valenzano is relatively gradual, with smaller villages and scattered farmsteads transitioning seamlessly into the town’s built environment. Bari, a major industrial and port city, lies approximately 15 kilometers north, and its industrial belt represents a potential source of air pollution, especially during periods of stagnant air. The Murgia’s terrain, with its limited valley networks, can trap pollutants, exacerbating local air quality challenges. The porous limestone bedrock also influences drainage patterns, potentially impacting humidity levels and, consequently, the dispersion of airborne particles.

Valenzano’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the Mediterranean climate. Summers (July-August) are typically hot and dry, characterized by prolonged periods of sunshine and minimal rainfall. This often leads to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, hindering the vertical dispersion of pollutants. Agricultural activities, such as harvesting, contribute to increased particulate matter during these months. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) generally offer the most favourable air quality, with moderate temperatures, increased rainfall, and more frequent wind events that help to disperse pollutants. However, occasional periods of stagnant air can still occur. Winters (November-March) are comparatively mild but can be influenced by occasional cold air masses from the north, leading to fog formation, particularly in the valleys and depressions of the Murgia. Fog traps pollutants close to the ground, significantly reducing visibility and increasing exposure to fine particulate matter. The prevailing winds, generally from the Adriatic Sea, can carry moisture and pollutants inland. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months and on days with dense fog, limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring local air quality information. Agricultural workers should be mindful of dust exposure during peak farming seasons, utilizing appropriate protective equipment.