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Marvdasht, nestled within the Fars Province of Iran, occupies a geographically significant position in the Zagros Mountains' foothills. Located at approximately 29.88° N, 52.81° E and an elevation of roughly 1,532 meters (5,026 feet) above sea level, the city’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and valleys, typical of the region's semi-arid climate. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural lands – primarily date palm groves and wheat fields – interspersed with scattered villages and the rugged beauty of the Zagros range. This proximity to intensive agricultural practices contributes to seasonal particulate matter, particularly during harvest periods. Marvdasht sits within a broader urban-rural gradient, transitioning from the denser population centers of Shiraz, approximately 60 kilometers to the west, to the more sparsely populated mountainous regions to the east. The city’s location within a basin can exacerbate air quality issues; topographic features often trap pollutants, hindering their dispersion. While not directly adjacent to major bodies of water, the relative humidity can fluctuate significantly, impacting the behavior of airborne particles. Industrial activity, though not as extensive as in larger Iranian cities, is present, primarily focused on food processing and agricultural product refinement, adding to localized pollution sources. The prevailing winds, often channeled through the mountain passes, can either alleviate or worsen air quality depending on their direction and strength, influencing the transport of pollutants from surrounding areas.

Marvdasht’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by its climate and regional weather patterns. Winters (roughly November to February) are typically the most challenging period. Cold temperatures frequently lead to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing the vertical mixing of pollutants. This phenomenon, coupled with reduced wind speeds and increased residential heating (often utilizing biomass fuels), results in elevated levels of particulate matter and other emissions. Spring (March to May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds increase, dispersing pollutants more effectively. However, agricultural burning practices, common during this period to clear fields for planting, can introduce significant localized pollution spikes. Summers (June to August) are generally characterized by drier conditions and stronger winds, which help to dilute and remove pollutants, leading to the best air quality of the year. Dust storms originating from the central Iranian deserts can occasionally impact the city, particularly during late spring and early summer. Autumn (September to October) sees a return to cooler temperatures and calmer winds, with agricultural activities resuming, potentially leading to a gradual decline in air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter months and be mindful of agricultural burning events in spring. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the summer months, but vigilance regarding potential dust storms is advised. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is crucial throughout the year, especially during periods of elevated pollution.