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Arteijo, nestled in the province of A Coruña, Galicia, Spain, occupies a geographically significant position on the northwestern Iberian Peninsula. Its coordinates (43.3044, -8.5114) place it within a coastal plain, gently sloping towards the Atlantic Ocean, specifically the Ría de Muros e Noia. This estuarine environment profoundly influences local climate and, consequently, air quality. The terrain is predominantly low-lying, characterized by fertile agricultural land interspersed with small woodlands and patches of granite outcrops typical of the Galician landscape. Arteijo’s urban character is a blend of traditional Galician villages and modern residential developments, reflecting its growth as a commuter town for A Coruña, located approximately 15 kilometers to the east. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of small farms cultivating potatoes, corn, and other crops, alongside pastureland supporting livestock. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to localized emissions, particularly during harvesting and fertilizer application. To the north, the Atlantic Ocean provides a constant source of sea breezes, which generally help to disperse pollutants, though fog events can trap them. The urban–rural gradient is relatively smooth, with agricultural land gradually transitioning into residential areas. The proximity to the Ría de Muros e Noia creates a unique microclimate, often characterized by cooler temperatures and higher humidity, impacting the behaviour of atmospheric pollutants. There are no major industrial belts directly within Arteijo, but the broader A Coruña metropolitan area’s industrial activity can influence regional air quality patterns.

Arteijo’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal rhythm dictated by its Atlantic climate. Winters (December-February) are typically wet and windy, with frequent storms bringing rain and strong winds from the ocean. These winds generally provide excellent ventilation, rapidly dispersing any accumulated pollutants and resulting in relatively good air quality. However, periods of prolonged calm can lead to localized fog, trapping moisture and potentially increasing concentrations of particulate matter. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual increase in sunshine and a decrease in rainfall, but also a rise in pollen levels, which can affect individuals with allergies. Summer (June-August) is generally dry and sunny, with stable atmospheric conditions. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the ground, can occasionally occur, trapping pollutants released from agricultural activities and nearby urban areas. Autumn (September-November) brings a return to wetter conditions and increasing wind speeds, again promoting good ventilation. The agricultural cycle plays a significant role; fertilizer application in spring and harvesting in autumn can lead to temporary increases in ammonia and particulate matter. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should be mindful of pollen counts in spring and potential temperature inversions during summer evenings. While generally experiencing favourable air quality, periods of calm weather, particularly in late summer and early autumn, warrant caution and reduced outdoor exertion for vulnerable populations. The prevailing westerly winds are a key factor in maintaining relatively clean air, but localized agricultural emissions require ongoing monitoring.