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Port-Gentil, situated on the Atlantic coast of Gabon within the Ogooué-Maritime province, is a city intrinsically linked to its marine environment. Located at -0.7167 latitude and 8.7833 longitude, the city occupies a low-lying coastal plain, barely rising above sea level. This flat terrain, coupled with its position on a peninsula formed by the Fernan Vaz Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, significantly influences local air quality. Port-Gentil’s development is heavily tied to its role as Gabon’s primary oil port, resulting in a concentrated industrial belt along the coastline. This industrial activity, including oil storage facilities, refineries, and associated transport infrastructure, is a major source of potential air pollutants. The surrounding landscape transitions rapidly from urban areas to mangrove forests and coastal forests further inland. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with limited agricultural zones directly adjacent to the city, though some small-scale farming exists. Prevailing winds, generally from the southwest, carry maritime air masses, but can also channel pollutants from industrial sources across the city. The proximity to the ocean moderates temperatures but also contributes to high humidity, potentially exacerbating the effects of certain pollutants. The city’s geography creates a bowl-like effect, which can trap pollutants during periods of calm weather.

Port-Gentil experiences a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality generally deteriorates during the dry season (June to September) due to increased dust from the Sahara, reduced rainfall for pollutant washout, and higher concentrations of industrial emissions. The Harmattan winds, blowing from the Sahara, contribute significantly to particulate matter levels. Calm conditions during this period can also lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near ground level. November to May marks the wet season, bringing relief from dust and a natural cleansing effect from frequent rainfall. However, even during the wet season, industrial emissions remain a consistent source of pollution. February and March often experience particularly heavy rainfall, offering the best air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during the peak of the dry season. High humidity throughout the year can exacerbate respiratory issues, requiring increased vigilance. Fog, common in the early mornings, can trap pollutants and reduce visibility, impacting air quality locally. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial, as shifts can quickly alter pollutant dispersion.