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Boiro, a coastal municipality in the province of A Coruña, Galicia, Spain, occupies a geographically complex position. Situated at coordinates 42.6500, -8.9000, the town nestles within the Rías Baixas, a deeply indented coastline characterised by fjord-like inlets. This ria, the Ría de Boiro, profoundly influences local air quality, providing some natural ventilation but also trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The terrain is hilly, rising inland from the coast, creating microclimates and influencing wind patterns. Boiro’s elevation varies, but generally remains below 200 meters. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of small-scale agriculture – primarily vineyards and orchards – interspersed with pine and eucalyptus forests. While not a heavily industrialised zone, nearby areas experience some industrial activity related to seafood processing and shipbuilding, contributing to localised emissions. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; Boiro itself is a densely populated centre, but quickly transitions to rural landscapes with scattered villages and agricultural land. The Atlantic Ocean’s prevailing westerly winds play a crucial role in dispersing pollutants, but can also bring in marine aerosols and pollutants from further afield. The proximity to the ocean moderates temperatures, but also increases humidity, potentially exacerbating the formation of secondary pollutants.

Boiro’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern, heavily influenced by Galician weather. Winter (December-February) typically sees improved air quality due to increased precipitation which effectively scrubs the atmosphere, and stronger winds dispersing pollutants. However, temperature inversions, common in the rias during calm, stable conditions, can trap pollutants near the ground, leading to localised build-ups of particulate matter from wood burning for heating. Spring (March-May) brings increasing agricultural activity, potentially raising levels of ammonia and particulate matter from soil disturbance. Summer (June-August) is generally favourable, with consistent sea breezes and high temperatures promoting dispersion, though ozone formation can be a concern on hot, sunny days. Autumn (September-November) often experiences a deterioration in air quality. The end of the tourist season coincides with increased wood burning as temperatures drop, and calmer weather patterns can lead to pollutant accumulation. Sensitive individuals, such as those with respiratory conditions, should be particularly cautious during autumn and winter months. Fog, common in the rias, can also exacerbate pollution episodes by trapping pollutants. Months to favour for outdoor activity are June, July and August, while November and December require greater vigilance.