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Şüvəlan, a town situated in the Sabunçu District of Baku, Azerbaijan, occupies a strategically important location within the Absheron Peninsula. Its coordinates (40.4843, 50.1840) place it approximately 20 kilometers west of Baku’s city center, nestled on a gently sloping plain that transitions towards the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. The terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the coastal plain, facilitating urban expansion and agricultural activity. Şüvəlan’s proximity to the Caspian Sea significantly influences its microclimate and, consequently, its air quality. The sea breeze, while often providing a degree of ventilation, can also carry moisture and pollutants from industrial zones further along the coast. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural land – primarily orchards and vegetable farms – and increasingly, residential developments reflecting Baku’s outward urban sprawl. This urban–rural gradient is a key factor; agricultural practices, including the use of fertilizers and machinery, contribute localized emissions, while the expanding residential areas add to vehicular traffic and associated pollution. The town’s elevation, relatively low at around 25 meters above sea level, limits dispersion of pollutants, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. Furthermore, Şüvəlan lies within a region experiencing increasing industrial activity, with several industrial belts located within a 30-kilometer radius, impacting regional air quality and contributing to transboundary pollution events. The Absheron Peninsula's unique geography, a narrow land bridge between the Caucasus and Central Asia, makes it susceptible to the trapping of pollutants.

Şüvəlan’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its climate and meteorological conditions. The transition months of spring and autumn are often characterized by moderate air quality, benefiting from increased wind speeds that help disperse pollutants. However, these periods can also experience temperature inversions, particularly in the mornings, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, exacerbating pollution. Summers (June-August) are typically hot and dry, with stagnant air conditions and minimal rainfall. This lack of precipitation, combined with high temperatures, leads to a build-up of pollutants, particularly those from vehicular emissions and nearby industrial sources. The intense solar radiation also contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone. Winters (December-February) are comparatively cooler and wetter, with more frequent rainfall which naturally cleanses the atmosphere. However, fog, a common occurrence during these months, can trap pollutants close to the ground, creating localized episodes of poor air quality. The prevailing winds from the Caspian Sea can also carry moisture and pollutants, impacting air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months and on days with dense fog. Limiting outdoor exertion during peak pollution hours and ensuring adequate ventilation indoors are advisable. The agricultural cycle also influences air quality; burning of crop residue after harvest can contribute to particulate matter pollution in the autumn.