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Maruim, a municipality nestled in the state of Sergipe, Brazil, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Located at approximately -10.7378 latitude and -37.0819 longitude, the city sits within the coastal plain of northeastern Brazil, characterized by low-lying terrain. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of sugarcane plantations, small-scale agriculture, and patches of Atlantic Forest remnants. Maruim’s proximity to the Aguiar Reservoir and the Sergipe River significantly impacts local humidity and wind patterns. The urban area itself is relatively small, with a population of around 15,719, exhibiting a clear urban-rural gradient as it transitions into the agricultural hinterland. While not a major industrial hub, regional economic activity centers around agriculture and fishing, contributing to potential particulate matter and volatile organic compound emissions. The flat topography limits natural dispersion of pollutants, and the coastal location means susceptibility to salt spray and marine aerosols. The prevailing winds, generally from the east, carry moisture inland, but can also transport pollutants from coastal sources. Understanding this interplay between land use, topography, and climate is crucial for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges in Maruim.

Maruim experiences a distinctly tropical climate, with a pronounced wet and dry season rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality generally deteriorates during the dry season (September to February) due to increased dust resuspension from agricultural activities and reduced rainfall for pollutant washout. Lower humidity during these months also contributes to higher concentrations of particulate matter. The dry season winds, while generally consistent, can occasionally stagnate, leading to localized pollution build-up. Conversely, the wet season (March to August) brings significant improvements in air quality. Frequent rainfall effectively scrubs the atmosphere, and higher humidity suppresses dust. However, the wet season can also see increased fungal spore concentrations, potentially impacting respiratory health. November and December are typically the months with the poorest air quality, coinciding with sugarcane harvest and burning. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these periods. March and April offer the most favourable conditions. Fog, common during the transition periods, can trap pollutants near the ground, requiring caution even during the wet season.