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Macará, nestled in the Loja Province of Ecuador, occupies a unique and challenging geographic position on the border with Peru. Situated at approximately -4.3833° latitude and -79.9500° longitude, the city lies within the Andean foothills, experiencing a dramatic transition from the coastal lowlands to the rising mountains. Its elevation, averaging around 600 meters (1968 feet) above sea level, contributes to a distinct microclimate and influences air circulation patterns. The landscape surrounding Macará is characterized by a blend of arid coastal plains gradually giving way to steeper, forested slopes. The Guayas River, a significant waterway, flows nearby, impacting local humidity and potentially influencing pollutant dispersal. The urban fabric of Macará is relatively compact, reflecting its smaller population of 12,454. The city’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, particularly banana and coffee cultivation, with smaller-scale livestock farming also prevalent in the surrounding rural areas. This agricultural activity, while vital, can contribute to localized air pollution through the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and the burning of agricultural waste, particularly during harvest seasons. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural lands quickly enveloping the city limits. The proximity to the Peruvian border introduces complexities related to transboundary pollution, potentially impacting air quality depending on industrial activity and meteorological conditions in neighboring regions. The terrain, with its sloping hills, can also trap pollutants, especially during periods of low wind speed, exacerbating local air quality challenges.

Macará’s tropical climate dictates a wet and dry season pattern, significantly influencing its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from June to November, often sees a build-up of pollutants due to reduced rainfall and diminished atmospheric cleansing. During these months, lower humidity and increased solar radiation can lead to photochemical smog formation, particularly if agricultural burning practices are prevalent. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, intensifying localized air quality issues. Conversely, the wet season (December to May) brings increased rainfall, which naturally washes pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also mobilize dust and particulate matter from agricultural fields, temporarily degrading air quality. Fog, a frequent occurrence during the wet season, can also trap moisture and pollutants, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. The months of July and August, within the dry season, are generally considered periods when outdoor activities should be approached with caution, especially for individuals with respiratory sensitivities. During these times, limiting strenuous outdoor exercise and avoiding areas with visible smoke or dust is advisable. The wettest months, January and February, while generally offering better air quality, can still present challenges due to increased humidity and potential for fungal spores. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should monitor local conditions and take appropriate precautions throughout the year, regardless of the season.