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Guiglo, nestled within the Montagnes region of Ivory Coast at approximately 6.54°N, -7.49°W, occupies a geographically significant position at the edge of the Guemonos forest, a remnant of the once vast rainforest that covered much of West Africa. The city’s terrain is gently undulating, transitioning from forested slopes to more open agricultural lands. Elevation ranges from roughly 200 to 350 meters above sea level, influencing local air circulation patterns. Situated on the edge of the N’zo River basin, Guiglo benefits from proximity to water, which can, under certain conditions, help to disperse pollutants, though stagnant water bodies can also contribute to localised odour and potentially, trace gaseous emissions. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of small-scale cocoa and coffee farms, interspersed with patches of secondary forest and traditional villages, creating a distinct urban–rural gradient. Guiglo serves as a regional market town, attracting agricultural produce from the surrounding areas, and has a growing commercial sector. While not a major industrial hub, the presence of small-scale processing facilities related to agriculture, particularly cocoa bean processing, and a burgeoning transport sector contribute to localised pollution sources. The city’s location, bordering a significant forested area, means that vegetation plays a role in absorbing some pollutants, but the increasing urban footprint and agricultural intensification are altering this natural balance, impacting air quality dynamics.

Guiglo’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to March, often sees a build-up of particulate matter. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and agricultural burning, a common practice for land preparation, releases significant quantities of smoke and aerosols. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath warmer air, are more frequent during this period, hindering vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants near ground level. The harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, can occasionally transport dust and sand, further degrading air quality. Conversely, the wet season (April to October) brings more frequent rainfall, which naturally washes pollutants from the atmosphere. Higher humidity can also trap some gaseous pollutants, but the overall effect is a reduction in particulate matter. Periods of intense rainfall are generally associated with improved air quality. Fog, though less frequent than in temperate climates, can occur during the transition months (October/November), trapping pollutants and creating localised pockets of poor air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly in the mornings when agricultural burning is most prevalent. Limiting strenuous outdoor activity during these periods and ensuring adequate ventilation indoors are advisable. The transition months, with potential for fog and lingering agricultural smoke, also warrant vigilance.