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Poznań, situated in the heart of Poland's Wielkopolskie region, occupies a strategic position on the Warta River within the Greater Poland Lowlands, approximately 280 kilometers west of Warsaw. The city's geography is characterized by gentle, undulating terrain with an average elevation of 60-90 meters above sea level, creating a subtle basin effect that can trap pollutants under specific meteorological conditions. Poznań lies at the crossroads of major transportation routes connecting Western and Eastern Europe, which contributes to both economic vitality and urban air quality challenges. The Warta River flows through the city center, providing some natural ventilation but insufficient to fully disperse emissions from the dense urban core. Surrounding the metropolitan area are expansive agricultural lands of the Wielkopolska region, known as Poland's breadbasket, which occasionally contribute particulate matter from agricultural burning and soil dust. The city exhibits a clear urban-rural gradient, with pollution concentrations typically decreasing from the industrialized western districts toward the eastern suburbs and rural hinterlands. Poznań's location within Europe's industrial belt means it receives transboundary pollution from neighboring countries, particularly Germany, while its own emissions stem from a mix of vehicular traffic, residential heating (especially from coal and wood in older buildings), and light-to-medium industry concentrated in peripheral zones. The relatively flat topography limits natural air circulation, making the city susceptible to pollution accumulation during periods of atmospheric stability.

In Poznań, air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern influenced by Poland's temperate continental climate. Winter, particularly from November through February, presents the most challenging period for pollution, with cold temperatures driving increased use of solid fuels for residential heating, leading to elevated levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and benzo(a)pyrene. Temperature inversions frequently occur during these months, trapping pollutants close to the ground and creating persistent smog episodes, especially in windless conditions. Sensitive groups should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during winter mornings and evenings when pollution concentrations peak. Spring brings gradual improvement as heating demands decrease and increased precipitation helps wash pollutants from the atmosphere, though March can still experience pollution from agricultural residue burning in surrounding farmlands. Summer offers the cleanest air overall, with warmer temperatures reducing heating emissions and more frequent winds providing better dispersion, though occasional heatwaves can elevate ground-level ozone, particularly in July and August. Autumn sees a return to deteriorating conditions as temperatures drop and heating season resumes, with October and November often marked by increased pollution from biomass burning and reduced atmospheric mixing. Throughout the year, weather patterns like the prevalence of westerly winds generally bring cleaner air from the Atlantic, while easterly winds can transport industrial pollution from Silesia and other regions.