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Taishan is a coastal county-level city in Guangdong Province, China, situated on the southwestern edge of the Pearl River Delta region. Its coordinates at 22.2520°N, 112.7940°E place it along the South China Sea coast, with a terrain that transitions from low-lying coastal plains in the south to rolling hills and modest mountains in the north, reaching elevations up to 500 meters. This varied topography creates microclimates that can trap pollutants, particularly in inland valleys. Taishan's urban character blends dense urban cores with extensive rural and agricultural zones, featuring rice paddies, fish farms, and orchards that contribute biogenic emissions like ammonia. Proximity to the South China Sea provides some natural ventilation, but the city lies within the Greater Bay Area industrial belt, influenced by regional pollution from Guangzhou, Foshan, and Jiangmen. The urban-rural gradient sees higher pollution in central Taishan City due to vehicular traffic, construction, and small-scale manufacturing, while coastal breezes offer partial relief. Surrounding landscapes include the Doushan and Beidou mountains to the north, which can block northerly winds, and the Tanjiang River flowing through the city, adding humidity that exacerbates particulate matter formation. This geographic positioning makes Taishan susceptible to both local emissions and transboundary haze from industrial clusters upwind.

Taishan's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern driven by the East Asian monsoon, with pollution typically peaking in late autumn and winter. In spring (March-May), increasing temperatures and southerly winds from the South China Sea disperse pollutants, making this a favourable time for outdoor activities, though occasional fog and high humidity can elevate PM2.5 levels. Summer (June-August) brings the southwest monsoon, with frequent rainfall and strong winds that scrub the air clean, resulting in the year's best air quality; however, high heat and humidity may cause ozone spikes on sunny days. Autumn (September-November) sees a transition as northeasterly winds set in, carrying industrial pollutants from inland Guangdong, while reduced rainfall and temperature inversions trap emissions, leading to worsening haze—October and November are particularly poor months. Winter (December-February) is marked by stable atmospheric conditions, with frequent temperature inversions and low wind speeds that accumulate local and regional pollution, making it the worst season for sensitive groups like asthmatics and the elderly. Health guidance includes limiting outdoor exertion during peak pollution months, using air purifiers indoors, and monitoring real-time air quality indexes, especially when northerly winds prevail. Overall, summer offers the safest window for outdoor pursuits, while late autumn to winter requires heightened precautions.