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Susurluk, nestled in the Balıkesir Province of Turkey, occupies a strategically important, yet geographically complex, position within the Marmara Region. Located at coordinates 39.9139, 28.1603, the city sits on a relatively flat plain, averaging around 160 meters in elevation, formed by alluvial deposits from the surrounding hills and the nearby Simav River. This plain is part of the larger Bursa-Bilalharım Plain, a significant agricultural zone. The terrain gently rises towards the south and west, transitioning into the foothills of the Aydın Mountains. Susurluk’s location along the D100 highway, a major transportation artery connecting Istanbul to İzmir, contributes to significant traffic volume. The city’s proximity to the Sea of Marmara, approximately 100km north, introduces maritime influences, but also limits effective dispersion of pollutants during stagnant weather conditions. Surrounding land use is predominantly agricultural, with extensive fields of sunflowers, grains, and olives. Industrial activity is present, though less concentrated than in larger cities, primarily related to food processing and agricultural machinery. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural lands immediately bordering the city limits. This combination of factors – topography, transport links, agricultural practices, and limited natural ventilation – creates a unique set of challenges for maintaining optimal air quality in Susurluk.

Susurluk experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, profoundly impacting its air quality. Pollution levels typically peak during the winter months (November to February) due to increased reliance on coal and wood for heating, coupled with frequent temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the ground. These inversions, common in the valley setting, prevent vertical mixing of the air, concentrating particulate matter and other emissions. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and heating demand decreases, though agricultural burning can temporarily elevate particulate matter. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, aided by prevailing winds and higher temperatures promoting dispersion, but prolonged drought conditions can lead to dust storms. Autumn (September-October) is a transitional period, with a resurgence of heating needs and potential for stagnant air masses. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and periods of agricultural burning. Fog, common in the cooler months, exacerbates pollution by trapping pollutants and reducing visibility. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the south can carry pollutants from industrial areas, while northerly winds may bring cleaner air from the Marmara Sea.