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Enfida, a municipality within the Sousse Governorate of Tunisia, occupies a strategic position in the country’s eastern coastal plain. Located at 36.1353°N, 10.3808°E, the city’s terrain is generally flat, characteristic of the Mediterranean coastal region, with a modest elevation that contributes to relatively good air dispersion compared to inland valleys. Enfida’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, approximately 5km distant, introduces maritime influences, moderating temperatures and providing occasional sea breezes that can help dilute pollutants. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural land – olive groves and cereal crops are prevalent – and increasingly, areas dedicated to tourism and light industry related to the nearby Sousse-Monastir conurbation. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; moving inland quickly transitions from populated areas to agricultural fields. This proximity to agricultural activity introduces potential sources of particulate matter from dust and seasonal burning. The Sousse-Monastir industrial zone, while not directly within Enfida, exerts a regional influence on air quality, particularly during periods of stagnant air. The city’s location along a major transport corridor also contributes to localised emissions from vehicular traffic. Understanding these geographical factors is crucial for assessing and mitigating air pollution in Enfida.

Enfida experiences a Mediterranean climate, resulting in distinct seasonal air quality patterns. Summer (June-August) often sees improved air quality due to prevailing northerly winds that sweep across the Mediterranean, dispersing pollutants. However, high temperatures can promote ground-level ozone formation, particularly in areas with significant vehicle traffic. Autumn (September-November) brings a transition period; agricultural burning of crop residue becomes more common, leading to spikes in particulate matter. This is often coupled with increased humidity and potential for temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Winter (December-February) is generally the period of poorest air quality. Reduced wind speeds, increased heating demands (often utilising wood or other solid fuels), and temperature inversions create conditions for pollutant accumulation. Fog, common during these months, further exacerbates the issue. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds become more frequent, but dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert can occasionally impact air quality. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during autumn and winter months. Monitoring wind direction and avoiding periods of calm, foggy weather is advisable.