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Catarroja, nestled in the fertile Huerta de Valencia, occupies a strategically important position just west of Valencia city, within the Valencia province of Spain. Its coordinates (39.4028, -0.4044) place it on relatively flat terrain, averaging around 15 meters above sea level, a characteristic of the Valencian Plain. This low elevation, combined with its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea (approximately 10km), significantly influences local weather patterns and, consequently, air quality. The surrounding landscape is dominated by intensive agricultural land – the Huerta – renowned for its citrus groves, rice paddies, and vegetable farms. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, contributes to localized emissions, particularly during planting and harvesting seasons. To the east lies the sprawling urban expanse of Valencia, a major industrial and commercial hub, introducing a constant influx of pollutants. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with Catarroja exhibiting a blend of residential areas and agricultural fringes. The Turia River, now channeled into a park after the devastating 1957 flood, flows nearby, offering a natural barrier and influencing local wind patterns. The absence of significant topographical features means that pollutants tend to accumulate rather than disperse readily, especially during periods of atmospheric stability. Industrial zones, primarily focused on ceramics and related industries, are present within the wider Valencia metropolitan area, impacting air quality in Catarroja through downwind transport of particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. The flat, coastal plain facilitates the advection of pollutants from both the sea and inland sources.

Catarroja’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by Mediterranean climate patterns. Summers (July-August) are typically hot and dry, often characterized by prolonged periods of atmospheric stability and temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to a noticeable increase in particulate matter and ozone concentrations. The lack of significant rainfall during these months exacerbates the problem, as there’s minimal natural cleansing of the atmosphere. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) generally offer the most favourable conditions, with moderate temperatures, increased rainfall, and more frequent wind events that help disperse pollutants. However, agricultural burning, a traditional practice in the Huerta de Valencia, can occasionally lead to spikes in particulate matter during these transitional seasons. Winters (November-March) are cooler and wetter, with occasional episodes of fog, which can trap pollutants and reduce visibility. While rainfall helps to wash pollutants from the air, the damp conditions and reduced sunlight can contribute to increased levels of nitrogen dioxide, primarily from traffic emissions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during the hot, still summer months and be mindful of potential agricultural burning events in spring and autumn. During periods of fog, it’s advisable to avoid strenuous outdoor exercise and ensure adequate ventilation in indoor spaces. The prevailing winds from the east, influenced by the Mediterranean, play a crucial role in transporting pollutants, impacting air quality throughout the year.