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Aného, a coastal town in Togo’s Maritime Region, occupies a geographically significant position at the mouth of the Mono River, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Its coordinates (6.2333, 1.6000) place it within a low-lying coastal plain, characterized by sandy soils and a gently undulating terrain. The city’s urban fabric is a blend of traditional Togolese architecture and more modern constructions, reflecting its role as a growing commercial hub. Surrounded by a mosaic of coastal scrubland, mangrove forests, and small-scale agricultural plots – primarily focused on cassava, maize, and vegetables – Aného exhibits a gradual urban-rural gradient. The Mono River, a vital waterway, influences local hydrology and contributes to the area’s humid climate. Further inland, the landscape rises slightly, transitioning into a more forested region. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures and increasing humidity. However, this coastal location also makes Aného vulnerable to sea breezes and potential salt spray, which can impact air quality. While large-scale industrial zones are absent immediately surrounding Aného, the town serves as a trading post for agricultural produce from the interior, and occasional transport of goods via the river can contribute to localized emissions. The relatively flat topography can exacerbate the accumulation of pollutants, particularly during periods of calm winds, hindering dispersion and potentially leading to stagnant air pockets. The surrounding landscape, while largely natural, is increasingly impacted by human activity, influencing the overall air quality profile.

Aného’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly influencing its air quality patterns. The dry season, typically spanning from November to March, often sees a slight improvement in air quality due to reduced humidity and increased wind speeds. These winds, frequently originating from the Atlantic, help disperse pollutants, preventing their build-up. However, agricultural burning, a common practice in the surrounding rural areas to clear land for planting, can introduce particulate matter into the atmosphere during this period, particularly in February and March. The wet season, from April to October, brings consistently high humidity and frequent rainfall. While the rain itself can help cleanse the air by removing particulate matter, the increased humidity can trap pollutants closer to the ground, especially during periods of calm weather. Fog, a relatively common occurrence during the transition months (April and October), further exacerbates this effect, creating stagnant air conditions. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in temperate climates, can occasionally occur, trapping pollutants near the surface. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of prolonged calm and high humidity, particularly following rainfall or during agricultural burning season. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the drier months, but vigilance regarding potential smoke from agricultural practices remains crucial. The Mono River’s influence also contributes to localized humidity and potential for waterborne pollutants affecting air quality.