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Hsinchu City, located in the province of Hsinchu, Taiwan (coordinates 24.8000° N, 121.1833° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the island’s northwest region. Nestled within the Hsinchu Plain, a fertile agricultural area, the city benefits from relatively flat terrain, facilitating urban expansion and connectivity. The surrounding landscape is a blend of cultivated fields, particularly rice paddies, and gently rolling hills, transitioning into the more rugged terrain of the Taiwan Central Mountain Range to the east. This proximity to the mountains influences local weather patterns and can trap pollutants under certain conditions. The city sits near the edge of the coastal plain, though direct access to the Taiwan Strait is limited, impacting maritime influences on air quality. Hsinchu’s regional position places it within a corridor of industrial activity, with the Hsinchu Science Park, a major technology hub, located nearby. This concentration of high-tech industries, while economically vital, contributes to localized pollution sources. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural lands quickly giving way to dense urban development. The city’s elevation, averaging around 30 meters above sea level, contributes to temperature inversions, particularly during the cooler months, which can exacerbate air pollution. The presence of the Touqian River, flowing through the area, provides some degree of moisture and can influence local humidity and dispersion of pollutants, though its impact is generally limited compared to larger bodies of water.

Hsinchu’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the island’s subtropical monsoon climate. The winter months (November to February) typically see the poorest air quality, characterized by frequent temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to increased concentrations of particulate matter and other emissions. Cold, stable air masses from the north also contribute to this phenomenon, reducing wind speeds and hindering pollutant dispersal. Fog, common during this period, further exacerbates the issue by limiting visibility and trapping pollutants. Spring (March to May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds increase, dispersing pollutants more effectively. Summer (June to August) is generally the cleanest period, with strong monsoon winds sweeping pollutants out to sea. However, occasional typhoons can bring brief periods of elevated particulate matter due to windblown dust and debris. Autumn (September to October) sees a transitional period, with decreasing monsoon influence and a gradual return of temperature inversions, leading to a slow decline in air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the winter months, limiting outdoor activities during periods of stagnant air. During the summer months, while generally cleaner, awareness of typhoon-related dust events remains important. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air purification is advisable year-round, particularly during periods of elevated pollution.