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Vendrell, a municipality in Catalonia, Spain, occupies a geographically diverse position between the Mediterranean Sea and the pre-coastal ranges. Located at coordinates 41.2203, 1.5347, the city’s terrain is characterised by a gentle slope descending towards the coast, influencing local wind patterns and pollutant dispersion. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of vineyards, olive groves, and increasingly, residential developments, reflecting the region’s agricultural heritage and growing tourism. Vendrell benefits from a Mediterranean climate, but its proximity to the sea also means it’s susceptible to marine air masses carrying salt and, occasionally, pollutants from shipping lanes. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural land immediately bordering the town, creating potential for pesticide drift and biomass burning emissions during agricultural practices. While not directly within a major industrial belt, the wider Tarragona province hosts chemical and petrochemical industries, and prevailing winds can transport pollutants towards Vendrell. The Penedès wine region, renowned for Cava production, surrounds the city, contributing to a unique microclimate and potential for localised emissions from winery operations. Understanding these geographical factors is crucial for interpreting Vendrell’s air quality profile.

Vendrell’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern, heavily influenced by meteorological conditions. Summer months (June-August) often see elevated ozone levels due to strong sunlight and stagnant air, particularly during heatwaves. These conditions favour photochemical smog formation, impacting respiratory health. Autumn (September-November) brings increased agricultural activity, including grape harvesting and pruning, potentially releasing particulate matter from biomass burning. Rainfall increases, which can temporarily improve air quality by washing away pollutants, but also creates damp conditions conducive to mould growth. Winter (December-February) generally experiences the cleanest air, with cooler temperatures reducing ozone formation and stronger winds aiding dispersion. However, temperature inversions can trap pollutants near the ground, especially in the valleys. Spring (March-May) sees a transition period, with increasing temperatures and agricultural activity, leading to fluctuating pollution levels. Sensitive individuals, such as those with asthma or cardiovascular disease, should be particularly cautious during summer heatwaves and autumn agricultural periods. Monitoring wind direction is key; winds from the Tarragona industrial zone can bring elevated pollutant concentrations. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during peak ozone hours in summer is advisable.