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Seyitgazi, nestled within the Eskişehir Province of Turkey, occupies a significant position in the country’s interior. Located at coordinates 39.4456, 30.6939, the town sits on the Porsuk River plain, a fertile agricultural zone. The surrounding landscape is characterised by gently rolling hills and plateaus, typical of the Anatolian interior. Seyitgazi’s elevation, approximately 820 meters above sea level, influences local weather patterns and contributes to temperature variations. The Porsuk River, while providing irrigation for agriculture, can also act as a conduit for pollutants during periods of low flow. While not directly within a major industrial belt, Eskişehir city, a regional industrial hub, lies approximately 30km to the north, and prevailing winds can transport emissions southward towards Seyitgazi. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Seyitgazi retains a distinctly rural character, with agriculture – particularly fruit orchards and grain farming – dominating the local economy. This agricultural activity, while vital, introduces potential sources of particulate matter from field preparation and harvesting. The town’s position within a valley can also exacerbate pollution events by trapping air masses and hindering dispersion. Understanding these geographical factors is crucial for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges in Seyitgazi.

Seyitgazi experiences a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations impacting air quality. Winters (December-February) are cold and snowy, often accompanied by temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to increased concentrations of particulate matter from residential heating using coal and wood. Spring (March-May) brings milder temperatures and increased rainfall, which helps to wash away pollutants, generally improving air quality. However, agricultural burning of stubble after the winter harvest can temporarily elevate particulate matter levels. Summers (June-August) are hot and dry, with infrequent rainfall. While winds can provide some dispersion, prolonged dry spells can lead to dust accumulation, particularly from agricultural lands. Autumn (September-November) sees a return to cooler temperatures and increased precipitation, again improving air quality. However, the onset of heating season towards the end of autumn begins to raise pollution levels again. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter months and periods of agricultural burning. Monitoring wind direction is also advisable, as pollutants from Eskişehir can impact Seyitgazi’s air quality.