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Naţanz, nestled within the Eşfahān Province of Iran, occupies a geographically complex position in the central Iranian plateau. Located at approximately 33.5072° N, 51.9136° E, the city sits at an elevation of roughly 1,667 meters (5,469 feet) above sea level, contributing to a cooler climate compared to lower-lying regions. The surrounding landscape is dominated by a semi-arid environment characterized by rugged mountains and expansive plains. The Kūhrūy Mountains rise to the east, influencing local wind patterns and creating potential for temperature inversions, a key factor in air quality. While Naţanz lacks direct proximity to major bodies of water, the Gavkhuni River flows nearby, though its impact on humidity and air quality is limited due to the arid climate. The city’s urban fabric is relatively compact, reflecting its historical development as a regional trade center. Significant agricultural zones, primarily focused on wheat and barley cultivation, extend outwards, introducing potential sources of particulate matter from agricultural practices, particularly during harvest seasons. Further afield, the industrial belt surrounding Eşfahān, a major manufacturing hub, exerts an indirect influence, with pollutants potentially transported by prevailing winds. The urban-rural gradient transitions rapidly from the city's core to the surrounding agricultural lands and then to the more sparsely populated mountainous terrain, creating a varied microclimate and influencing localized pollution concentrations. The plateau setting, combined with the surrounding topography, can trap pollutants, especially during periods of low wind speed.

Naţanz experiences a distinct seasonal pattern in air quality, largely dictated by its semi-arid climate and meteorological conditions. Winters (December-February) are typically the most challenging period. Cold air masses frequently settle over the plateau, leading to stable atmospheric conditions and the formation of temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. Fog, common during these months, further reduces dispersion. Spring (March-May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and wind speeds increase, helping to disperse pollutants. However, dust storms originating from the surrounding deserts can significantly degrade air quality during this transition period. Summer (June-August) generally sees the best air quality due to strong convective mixing and frequent winds, which effectively ventilate the atmosphere. However, intense heat can contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, a secondary pollutant. Autumn (September-November) marks a return to more stable conditions, with decreasing wind speeds and the potential for temperature inversions, leading to a gradual decline in air quality. Individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, should exercise caution during winter and autumn months, limiting outdoor activity during periods of stagnant air. Children and the elderly are also particularly vulnerable and should take precautions. Staying indoors with air purifiers and avoiding strenuous activity during peak pollution episodes is advisable. Agricultural burning, a common practice in the surrounding areas, can also contribute to localized pollution spikes, particularly during the transition seasons.