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Stanytsia Luhanska, situated in the Luhanska Oblast of eastern Ukraine, occupies a geographically sensitive position within the Donbas region. Located at coordinates 48.6706° N, 39.4722° E, the city lies in a relatively flat, low-lying area along the Siverskyi Donets River, at an elevation of approximately 80 meters. This proximity to the river influences local humidity and can contribute to fog formation, impacting pollutant dispersion. The surrounding landscape is characterised by the East European Plain, transitioning from steppe to forest-steppe vegetation. Historically, the area has been heavily influenced by coal mining and related industrial activity, creating a legacy of potential air and soil contamination. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural lands dominating the areas immediately surrounding the city, alongside remnants of industrial zones. The city’s location near the line of contact in the ongoing conflict significantly complicates environmental monitoring and remediation efforts. The terrain, while generally flat, features small ravines and depressions that can trap pollutants during calm weather conditions. The prevailing winds, typically from the west, can transport pollutants from regional sources, exacerbating local air quality issues. This confluence of factors makes Stanytsia Luhanska particularly vulnerable to air pollution.

Air quality in Stanytsia Luhanska exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, heavily influenced by meteorological conditions and human activity. Spring (March-May) often sees a rise in particulate matter due to agricultural burning and dust from thawing ground, coupled with limited atmospheric mixing. Summers (June-August) generally offer improved air quality, with higher temperatures promoting dispersion, though occasional heatwaves can trap pollutants. However, wildfires in surrounding areas can significantly degrade air quality during dry spells. Autumn (September-November) is often the most challenging period. The burning of agricultural waste intensifies, and temperature inversions become more frequent, trapping pollutants near the ground. This period is also associated with increased coal burning for heating as temperatures drop. Winters (December-February) are characterised by stable, cold air masses and frequent temperature inversions, leading to prolonged periods of poor air quality from domestic heating sources – coal and wood. Fog, common during winter months, further exacerbates the situation by reducing visibility and trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during autumn and winter, particularly on calm, foggy days. Monitoring wind direction is crucial, as pollutants can be transported from nearby industrial areas.