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Zogbodomé, situated in the Zou Department of Benin, lies at approximately 7.0833°N latitude and 2.1000°E longitude. The city occupies a relatively flat terrain typical of southern Benin, part of the broader coastal plains. Its elevation is low, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Zogbodomé is not directly on the coast, but is positioned inland, approximately 40km from the Atlantic Ocean, influencing humidity levels and occasional coastal breezes. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, characterized by subsistence farming and small-scale plantations of palm oil, cotton, and maize. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, contributes to particulate matter pollution through land clearing and seasonal burning of crop residue. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; Zogbodomé represents a growing urban centre amidst a largely rural backdrop. While not a major industrial hub, the city serves as a regional market and transport node, leading to increased vehicular traffic and associated emissions. Dust from unpaved roads, common in Benin’s smaller cities, further degrades air quality. The city’s location within a tropical climate zone means consistent high temperatures and humidity, impacting pollutant behaviour and concentration.

Zogbodomé experiences a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically from November to March, sees a significant deterioration in air quality. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, allowing pollutants from agricultural burning, vehicle emissions, and dust to accumulate. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, can transport substantial amounts of dust southward, exacerbating particulate matter levels. January and February are generally the months with the poorest air quality. The transition to the wet season, April to May, brings a temporary improvement as rainfall washes away accumulated pollutants. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. The wet season, June to October, generally offers the best air quality, with frequent rainfall effectively scrubbing the atmosphere. However, stagnant air masses can occasionally trap pollutants, particularly in localized areas. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activity and using appropriate respiratory protection. Monitoring local weather patterns is crucial, as even during the wet season, short periods of calm can lead to localized pollution build-up.