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Gönen, nestled in the Balıkesir Province of Turkey, occupies a geographically significant position within the Marmara Region. The city is situated approximately 140km southeast of Istanbul, benefiting from a temperate climate influenced by the nearby Sea of Marmara, though not directly coastal. The terrain surrounding Gönen is characterised by rolling plains and low hills, part of the broader Biga Peninsula. Elevation varies, but the city centre sits around 75 meters above sea level. This relatively low altitude, combined with the surrounding topography, can contribute to localised air stagnation. Gönen’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly olive cultivation, and increasingly, tourism due to its thermal springs. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields, olive groves, and deciduous forests. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp, with agricultural land immediately bordering the city limits. Industrial activity is present, though less concentrated than in larger Turkish cities, primarily focused on food processing related to agricultural output. This mix of agricultural practices, potential industrial emissions, and the local topography creates a unique set of conditions influencing air quality in Gönen. The prevailing winds, generally from the northwest, play a crucial role in dispersing pollutants, but can also transport them from regional sources.

Gönen experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, profoundly impacting its air quality. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement in air quality as rainfall washes away accumulated winter pollutants, but agricultural burning for land preparation can cause temporary spikes in particulate matter. Summer (June-August) typically presents the clearest air, aided by prevailing winds and reduced heating demands. However, high temperatures can exacerbate ozone formation, particularly on still days. Autumn (September-November) marks a transition, with decreasing temperatures and increasing rainfall, but also the start of heating season, leading to increased emissions from wood and coal burning. This is often when air quality begins to decline. Winter (December-February) is generally the period of poorest air quality. Temperature inversions, common in the valley setting, trap pollutants near the ground, leading to higher concentrations of particulate matter and sulphur dioxide from domestic heating. Sensitive groups – the elderly, children, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exertion during cold, still winter days. Fog, frequent in winter, further concentrates pollutants. Months to favour for outdoor activity are June through August, while November through February require greater caution.