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Ban Phe, a coastal town in Rayong province, Thailand, occupies a geographically significant position on the Gulf of Thailand. Situated at coordinates 12.6282°N, 101.4376°E, the town’s terrain is relatively flat, typical of the central plains region, with an elevation barely above sea level. This low-lying coastal location directly influences air quality, making it susceptible to marine influences and the trapping of pollutants. Ban Phe’s urban character is that of a fishing village transitioning into a tourist destination, serving as a gateway to the nearby Koh Samet island. The surrounding landscape is a mix of coconut plantations, fruit orchards, and mangrove forests, interspersed with developing tourism infrastructure. Rayong province itself is a major industrial hub, particularly for petrochemicals and automotive industries, located further inland but impacting regional air quality through transport emissions and industrial fallout. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; moving inland from Ban Phe, agricultural land gives way to larger industrial complexes. Proximity to the Gulf of Thailand provides some dispersion, but also allows for the build-up of humidity and potential temperature inversions, exacerbating pollution events. The prevailing winds, influenced by the monsoon seasons, play a crucial role in pollutant transport and dispersion.

Ban Phe experiences a tropical monsoon climate, dictating a distinct wet and dry season rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality is generally better during the wet season (May to October) due to increased rainfall which effectively washes particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, high humidity can also contribute to the formation of secondary pollutants. The northeast monsoon, prevailing from November to February, brings drier, cooler air, but also a concentration of pollutants due to reduced atmospheric mixing and potential temperature inversions. This period often sees a noticeable decline in air quality, particularly in the mornings. March and April are the hottest months, with increased vehicle use and potential for bushfires in surrounding areas, leading to elevated ozone levels and particulate matter. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these months. Fog can also be a factor during the transition periods, trapping pollutants near the ground. The southwest monsoon (June-October) offers the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity, though localised flooding can sometimes disrupt daily life. Monitoring wind direction is key, as pollutants from industrial areas can be carried towards Ban Phe depending on prevailing winds.