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Cartaxo, nestled within the Santarém district of Portugal, occupies a geographically significant position in the Ribatejo region, a historically fertile plain stretching between the Tagus and Sado rivers. Its coordinates (39.1619, -8.7864) place it on gently undulating terrain, characterized by alluvial soils resulting from the region’s fluvial history. The city’s elevation averages around 40 meters above sea level, contributing to a relatively stable atmospheric layer, though susceptible to temperature inversions under specific conditions. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, a patchwork of vineyards, olive groves, and cereal fields, typical of the Ribatejo landscape. This proximity to intensive agriculture introduces potential sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvesting and soil preparation. To the west, the landscape gradually transitions to rolling hills and forests, offering some degree of natural air filtration. Cartaxo’s location is not directly adjacent to major industrial belts; however, it lies within a reasonable commuting distance of Lisbon and its surrounding industrial areas, potentially experiencing some influence from transboundary pollution. The urban–rural gradient is relatively smooth, with smaller villages and agricultural holdings interspersed throughout the municipality. The Tagus River, while not immediately bordering the city, exerts a regional influence on weather patterns and can impact the dispersion of pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind. The flat topography, combined with the prevailing wind patterns, can sometimes lead to localized accumulation of pollutants, especially during stagnant weather conditions. The city’s compact urban form, with a historic core and expanding residential areas, also influences local air quality dynamics.

Cartaxo’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Portugal’s Mediterranean climate. Spring (March-May) generally sees improved air quality as temperatures rise and winds increase, dispersing any accumulated pollutants. However, agricultural activities, such as ploughing and fertilizer application, can contribute to localized particulate matter spikes. Summer (June-August) is typically the driest period, with high temperatures and often stagnant air, particularly during heatwaves. This can lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground and potentially impacting air quality, though the lack of significant industrial activity mitigates this somewhat. Autumn (September-November) brings a return to more dynamic weather patterns, with increased rainfall and wind, which helps to cleanse the atmosphere. Agricultural burning, a traditional practice in the region, can, however, contribute to elevated particulate matter levels during this season. Winter (December-February) is characterized by cooler temperatures and increased humidity, sometimes accompanied by fog, which can exacerbate air quality issues by trapping pollutants. The combination of low wind speeds and fog can lead to a build-up of pollutants, particularly in the mornings. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should be particularly cautious during periods of fog and temperature inversions, limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring local air quality information. While Cartaxo doesn't experience a monsoon season, periods of prolonged rainfall are beneficial for pollutant removal. Overall, the agricultural cycle and weather patterns are the primary drivers of seasonal air quality variations in Cartaxo.