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Pulpí, nestled in the Almería province of Andalusia, Spain, presents a unique geographic setting influencing its air quality. The municipality extends from the Mediterranean coastline inland, encompassing both coastal plains and the foothills of the Sierra Alhamilla mountain range. Its coordinates (37.4019, -1.7508) place it within a semi-arid climate zone, characterised by low rainfall and high sunshine hours. The terrain is varied, transitioning from the flat, intensely-farmed coastal strip – dominated by plastic greenhouse agriculture – to the more rugged, sparsely vegetated hills. This agricultural belt, while economically vital, is a significant source of potential air pollutants through pesticide use and the energy demands of climate control within the greenhouses. The proximity to the Mediterranean Sea moderates temperatures but also introduces sea breezes that can either disperse or concentrate pollutants depending on atmospheric conditions. Pulpí’s urban character is a blend of traditional Andalusian architecture and more modern developments, with the town centre situated a few kilometres inland from the port area. The urban-rural gradient is sharp, with significant agricultural land use immediately surrounding the built-up areas. The elevation increases moving inland, impacting wind patterns and pollutant dispersion. The geological composition, rich in mineral deposits, also contributes to particulate matter in the air, particularly during periods of wind erosion.

Pulpí’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Summer months (June-August) often see improved air quality due to prevailing sea breezes that help disperse pollutants, despite the intense solar radiation contributing to ozone formation. However, high temperatures can exacerbate dust resuspension from agricultural lands. Autumn (September-November) brings a transition period, with decreasing temperatures and potentially more stagnant air, leading to a build-up of pollutants from agricultural activity and domestic heating. Winter (December-February) is typically the period of poorest air quality. Temperature inversions, common in the Alhamilla foothills, trap pollutants close to the ground, and increased use of wood-burning stoves for heating contributes to particulate matter. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and rainfall increases, washing away accumulated pollutants. However, agricultural spraying intensifies during this period, introducing pesticides into the air. Sensitive groups – the elderly, children, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during winter and spring. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity on calm, cold days and during peak agricultural spraying times is advisable. Monitoring local weather forecasts for wind direction and inversion warnings is crucial for protecting respiratory health.