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Greenville, situated in Sinoe County, Liberia, occupies a coastal lowland position at approximately 5.0167°N, -9.0333°W. The city’s geography is fundamentally shaped by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, with the terrain generally flat and gently undulating as it moves inland. This coastal location means Greenville experiences high humidity and is susceptible to saltwater intrusion, impacting local ecosystems and potentially contributing to aerosol formation. The surrounding landscape is dominated by rainforest, interspersed with mangrove swamps along the coastline and transitioning to agricultural zones further inland, primarily rubber and palm oil plantations. These agricultural practices, while economically vital, can contribute to particulate matter through land clearing and processing activities. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; Greenville itself is a compact urban centre, but quickly gives way to dense forest and smaller rural settlements. The prevailing winds, generally from the ocean, play a crucial role in dispersing pollutants, but can also carry moisture and contribute to fog formation, trapping pollutants near the ground. The lack of significant elevation changes limits vertical mixing, potentially exacerbating localised pollution events. Industrial activity is limited within Greenville itself, but regional processing of agricultural products contributes to background pollution levels.

Greenville experiences a distinct wet and dry season, rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality is generally poorer during the dry season (November to April) due to increased dust from unpaved roads and agricultural activities. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, allowing pollutants to accumulate. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, can transport significant amounts of dust, further degrading air quality. February and March are typically the months with the lowest air quality. The transition periods – October/November and May/June – see fluctuating conditions. The wet season (May to October) brings relief, with frequent rainfall effectively washing pollutants from the atmosphere. However, high humidity can promote mould growth, impacting respiratory health. August and September, while wet, can experience localised flooding which stirs up sediment and organic matter, potentially increasing biological pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly February-March. During the wet season, maintaining good indoor ventilation is crucial to prevent mould-related issues. Monitoring weather patterns and avoiding outdoor exertion during periods of high dust or humidity is advisable.