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Dangbo, situated in the Ouémé Department of Benin, occupies a low-lying coastal plain at approximately 6.5000°N latitude and 2.6833°E longitude. The city’s geography is fundamentally shaped by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the lagoon systems that characterise southern Benin. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Dangbo is embedded within a predominantly agricultural landscape, dominated by small-scale farming of crops like maize, cassava, and vegetables. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces particulate matter from land preparation, harvesting, and potential burning of agricultural residue. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a transition from denser residential areas in the city centre to more dispersed agricultural lands on the periphery. The coastal location means Dangbo experiences high humidity and is susceptible to saltwater intrusion, impacting soil quality and potentially influencing dust composition. The city’s position along key transport routes, connecting Cotonou to other regions, also contributes to vehicular emissions. Industrial activity is limited within Dangbo itself, but the proximity to the industrial hub of Cotonou means transboundary pollution is a significant factor affecting local air quality. The prevailing winds, generally from the Gulf of Guinea, play a crucial role in pollutant transport.

Dangbo experiences a tropical climate defined by distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly influencing air quality. The dry season, typically from November to March, sees a peak in particulate matter pollution. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, carry substantial dust across West Africa, significantly degrading air quality in Dangbo. Lower humidity during this period also means dust remains suspended for longer. February and March are generally the months with the poorest air quality. The transition period, April-May, brings increased agricultural activity as farmers prepare fields, leading to localised burning and a temporary spike in smoke and particulate matter. The wet season, from June to October, offers a respite from dust, with rainfall effectively scavenging pollutants from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of mould spores, impacting respiratory health. September and October, while wetter, can experience stagnant air conditions following rainfall events, trapping pollutants near the ground. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and periods of agricultural burning. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding peak pollution times is crucial for protecting health.