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Nestled on the banks of the Danube River in Serbia's northern Vojvodina province, Novi Sad occupies a strategic position at the southern edge of the Pannonian Plain, approximately 80 kilometers northwest of Belgrade. The city's geography is characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain, with an average elevation of around 80 meters above sea level, which significantly influences its air quality dynamics. Situated on the Danube's left bank, Novi Sad benefits from the river's moderating effects on local climate but also faces challenges from industrial activities concentrated along its waterways. The urban area transitions into an agricultural hinterland dominated by fertile plains used for cereal and vegetable production, creating a distinct urban-rural gradient where pollution disperses differently across landscapes. Proximity to the Fruška Gora mountain range to the south provides some topographic shelter but can also trap pollutants under specific meteorological conditions. The city's position within Serbia's industrial belt, particularly near the Pancevo oil refinery complex and other manufacturing zones, means it experiences transboundary pollution alongside local emissions. Novi Sad's urban character as a major cultural and economic hub with dense traffic corridors exacerbates ground-level pollution, while its location in a basin-like formation of the Pannonian Plain sometimes inhibits natural ventilation, allowing contaminants to accumulate during stable weather patterns.

In spring, Novi Sad experiences improving air quality as temperatures rise and increased precipitation helps wash away particulate matter, though occasional Saharan dust intrusions can temporarily elevate pollution levels. This season offers favourable conditions for outdoor activities, particularly from April onward when winds become more consistent. Summer brings generally good air quality due to stronger atmospheric mixing and frequent rainfall, but ozone formation can become a concern during prolonged heatwaves, making early morning or evening the best times for sensitive groups to venture outside. Autumn sees a gradual deterioration in air quality as temperatures drop and atmospheric stability increases, with October often marking the transition toward poorer conditions. The peak pollution months of November, December, and January present significant challenges as temperature inversions become frequent in the Pannonian Basin, trapping vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and residential heating pollutants near the ground. Dense fog often combines with these inversions, creating prolonged episodes of poor visibility and heightened health risks, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Winter months require vulnerable populations to limit prolonged outdoor exposure and monitor air quality indices closely. Late winter into early spring brings gradual improvement as increased wind activity helps disperse accumulated pollutants.