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Coussé, nestled within the Atlantique Region of Benin (coordinates 6.8500, 2.1333) and home to a population of approximately 11,885, occupies a geographically significant position within a transitional landscape. The city’s terrain is gently undulating, characteristic of the coastal plains gradually rising towards the interior plateau. Its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, roughly 20 kilometers to the south, exerts a considerable influence on local climate and, consequently, air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of small-scale agriculture – predominantly cocoa, cassava, and maize cultivation – interspersed with patches of dense tropical forest and scrubland. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, contributes to particulate matter emissions, particularly during harvesting and burning seasons. The urban–rural gradient around Coussé is relatively sharp; the city itself is a small market town, exhibiting a compact urban footprint with traditional housing styles, transitioning quickly to rural agricultural settings. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Coussé, though regional transport routes pass nearby, potentially introducing pollutants from vehicular traffic. The elevation, generally below 50 meters above sea level, contributes to a tendency for stagnant air conditions, especially during periods of reduced wind, which can trap pollutants close to the ground. The coastal breezes, however, offer a mitigating factor, though their effectiveness is dependent on prevailing wind patterns and seasonal changes. The presence of the Mono River, flowing nearby, also influences local humidity and atmospheric stability.

Coussé experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly impacting its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from November to March, often sees a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributable to agricultural practices; farmers frequently employ controlled burns to clear land for planting, releasing significant quantities of smoke and ash into the atmosphere. Reduced rainfall during this period also limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to persist. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the situation. The wet season, from April to October, brings more frequent rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as pollutants are washed from the atmosphere. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to increased fungal spores and allergens, impacting respiratory health. Fog, occasionally forming during the transition periods between seasons, can also temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the wet season, particularly from June to September. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and avoiding areas with visible smoke. Maintaining good ventilation indoors and using air purifiers can also help mitigate the effects of poor air quality during these periods. The intensity of agricultural burning is a key factor, and community awareness campaigns promoting alternative land clearing methods are crucial for long-term air quality improvement.