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Yenice, nestled within the Yeşil Bursa district of Bursa, Turkey, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 40.0883° N, 29.4211° E. The town’s setting is defined by the foothills of the Uludağ mountain range, a prominent feature dominating the regional landscape. This location imparts a distinct topography characterized by undulating terrain, with elevations ranging from around 600 to 900 meters above sea level. Yenice’s urban character is that of a rural market town, retaining a strong agricultural heritage despite its proximity to Bursa’s urban sprawl. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, featuring orchards (particularly known for Bursa pears), olive groves, and vineyards, contributing to a vibrant rural-urban gradient. To the south, the plains of Bursa extend, gradually transitioning into the industrial belt concentrated around the city center. The proximity to the Marmara Region, a major economic hub, influences transportation patterns and potential pollution sources. The town sits near the Orhan Gazi Creek, providing a limited water source and influencing local microclimates. The Uludağ range acts as a barrier, influencing wind patterns and potentially trapping pollutants during periods of atmospheric stability. This interplay of mountainous terrain, agricultural land use, and proximity to industrial zones creates a complex environmental context that significantly impacts Yenice’s air quality, making it susceptible to both regional and localized pollution events.

Yenice’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by Bursa’s Mediterranean climate, modified by its altitude. Winters (December-February) are typically the most challenging period. Cold, stable air masses frequently settle into the valleys surrounding Uludağ, leading to temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating any emissions from agricultural practices (burning of crop residues) or occasional industrial activity in nearby Bursa. Fog is also common during these months, further reducing air dispersion. Spring (March-May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and wind speeds increase, dispersing pollutants more effectively. Agricultural activity increases, but the improved ventilation generally mitigates any significant impact. Summer (June-August) sees the best air quality, with consistent sunshine, strong winds, and frequent convective mixing, which rapidly dilutes and removes pollutants. However, occasional heatwaves can lead to stagnant air conditions. Autumn (September-November) marks a transitional period. As temperatures cool, the risk of temperature inversions returns, though generally less severe than in winter. The harvest season can contribute to localized pollution from agricultural burning. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter months, limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring local air quality reports. Spring and autumn require awareness of agricultural burning practices, while summer offers the most favorable conditions for outdoor activities.