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Port-à-Piment, nestled within Haiti’s Sud department, occupies a challenging coastal geography. Situated at 18.2498°N, -74.0972°W, the city is characterized by a rugged terrain where the mountains of the Massif de la Hotte descend steeply towards the Caribbean Sea. This proximity to the sea, while offering vital resources, also exposes Port-à-Piment to marine aerosols and potential salt spray contributing to particulate matter. The city itself is relatively small, with a population of 17,207, and exhibits a typical Haitian urban form – a dense core gradually transitioning to more rural agricultural lands dominated by smallholder farming, primarily focused on coffee, cacao, and subsistence crops. The surrounding landscape is heavily forested on the slopes, but deforestation for charcoal production is a significant concern. There are no major industrial belts directly within Port-à-Piment, however, regional charcoal production and the burning of agricultural waste contribute to localised air pollution. The urban-rural gradient is sharp, with limited infrastructure and transport options, meaning reliance on older vehicles and open burning practices are common. The prevailing winds, influenced by the island’s topography, can trap pollutants within the coastal basin, exacerbating air quality issues, particularly during calm periods. The elevation changes contribute to microclimates and localised variations in pollutant dispersion.

Port-à-Piment experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically from December to April, sees reduced rainfall and increased dust resuspension from unpaved roads and agricultural lands, leading to higher particulate matter concentrations. This is compounded by increased burning of vegetation for land clearing and charcoal production. February and March are often the months with the poorest air quality. The wet season, from May to November, brings relief through rainfall which washes away pollutants, but also increases humidity, potentially fostering mold growth indoors. The hurricane season, peaking between August and October, presents a unique challenge; while storms temporarily cleanse the air, the aftermath can involve widespread debris burning and damage to infrastructure, releasing pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during the calmer periods of the dry season, trap pollutants near ground level. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and be particularly cautious after any significant weather event. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial, as winds from the interior can carry smoke from agricultural fires directly into the city.