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Çan, a town nestled within Çanakkale Province in northwestern Turkey, occupies a geographically significant position within the Marmara Region. Located at approximately 40.0275° latitude and 27.0475° longitude, Çan sits on a gently sloping terrain, part of the broader Thracian Plain, characterized by alluvial soils and a relatively low elevation, averaging around 150 meters above sea level. The surrounding landscape is a blend of agricultural fields – primarily olive groves, vineyards, and cereal crops – and rolling hills dotted with scattered woodlands. This agricultural intensity contributes to potential particulate matter sources, particularly during harvest seasons. Çan’s proximity to the Çanakkale Strait, a vital waterway connecting the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara, introduces a maritime influence, generally moderating temperatures and occasionally dispersing pollutants via prevailing winds. However, the strait can also trap stagnant air under certain meteorological conditions. While not directly adjacent to a major industrial belt, Çan is within reasonable reach of industrial zones concentrated around Izmir and Bursa, potentially experiencing transboundary pollution events. The urban–rural gradient around Çan is gradual, with smaller villages and agricultural land seamlessly transitioning into the town’s built environment. The town itself exhibits a compact urban form, largely shaped by its historical role as a coal mining center, though mining activity has significantly decreased in recent decades. The local geology, including underlying sedimentary rocks, can also influence dust generation and soil composition, impacting air quality.

Çan’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by regional weather patterns. Summers (June-August) are typically hot and dry, with minimal rainfall and frequent periods of atmospheric stability. This often leads to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, hindering pollutant dispersion and resulting in elevated particulate matter concentrations, particularly from agricultural activities like crop residue burning. Autumn (September-November) brings a gradual shift, with increased rainfall and more frequent wind events that help to flush out accumulated pollutants. However, agricultural burning practices can still contribute to localized air quality issues. Winter (December-February) is the most challenging period, characterized by colder temperatures, fog, and periods of calm winds. These conditions exacerbate temperature inversions, trapping pollutants and creating stagnant air masses. The prevalence of fog further reduces visibility and can worsen respiratory conditions. Spring (March-May) offers the most favorable air quality, with warming temperatures, increased rainfall, and stronger winds that effectively disperse pollutants. Outdoor activities are generally recommended during spring and autumn, with caution advised during the winter months, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory illnesses. During summer, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and monitoring local air quality reports is advisable. The agricultural cycle, with its associated burning practices, significantly impacts air quality throughout the year, necessitating careful management and mitigation strategies.