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Alfafar, nestled within the Valencia metropolitan area in eastern Spain, occupies a geographically significant position just northwest of the city of Valencia. Its coordinates (39.4222, -0.3906) place it within the Valencian Community, a region characterized by a Mediterranean climate and a diverse landscape. The terrain surrounding Alfafar is predominantly flat, a feature typical of the Valencian Plain, facilitating agricultural activity and urban expansion. This flatness, however, can contribute to air quality challenges, particularly during periods of temperature inversion. Alfafar’s proximity to Valencia, a major industrial and port city, means it’s influenced by urban and industrial emissions. To the west, agricultural lands extend, with rice paddies and citrus groves dominating the scene, occasionally releasing biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) that can react with pollutants to form ozone. The Albufera Natural Park, a coastal lagoon system, lies to the south, providing a vital ecosystem service but also potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with Alfafar transitioning from residential areas to agricultural fields and the natural park. The elevation is low, averaging around 15 meters above sea level, minimizing natural dispersion of pollutants. The nearby Mediterranean Sea, while offering a cooling influence, can also transport pollutants from distant sources, impacting Alfafar’s air quality. The city’s location within a densely populated metropolitan area means it’s subject to the cumulative effects of regional pollution sources, compounded by local traffic and industrial activity.

Alfafar’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its Mediterranean climate. Summers (June-August) are typically hot and dry, often experiencing prolonged periods of sunshine and minimal rainfall. This leads to increased photochemical smog formation, as sunlight drives reactions between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, resulting in elevated ozone levels. Temperature inversions, common during calm summer nights, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) generally offer improved air quality, with more frequent rainfall and windier conditions that help disperse pollutants. However, agricultural burning practices in surrounding areas during these transitional seasons can contribute to particulate matter pollution. Winters (December-February) are characterized by cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. While overall pollution levels may be lower than in summer, fog events, particularly in December and January, can trap pollutants, leading to periods of reduced visibility and elevated particulate matter. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during periods of high ozone or particulate matter, especially during the hot, still summer afternoons. During winter fog events, indoor air quality can also be affected, so ensuring adequate ventilation is crucial. The prevailing winds from the east generally help to clear pollutants, but their strength and direction can vary significantly, impacting local air quality conditions. Agricultural activities, particularly fertilizer application, can also contribute to ammonia emissions, impacting air quality during specific periods.