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Sultanbeyli is a densely populated urban district located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey, positioned at coordinates 40.9683°N, 29.2617°E. Situated approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Istanbul's historic center, it lies within the broader metropolitan area that straddles both European and Asian continents. The district occupies a transitional zone between Istanbul's urban core and the more rural eastern hinterlands, creating a distinct urban-rural gradient that influences local air quality dynamics. Topographically, Sultanbeyli rests on relatively flat terrain at an elevation of about 100 meters above sea level, though it is surrounded by gently rolling hills characteristic of the region. Its proximity to the Sea of Marmara, approximately 15 kilometers to the southwest, provides some moderating influence on local climate but limited direct cleansing effect on air pollution. The district forms part of Istanbul's eastern industrial belt, with manufacturing facilities, logistics centers, and small-scale workshops contributing to particulate and gaseous emissions. Surrounding areas include both residential developments and agricultural zones, creating a mixed land-use pattern that generates diverse pollution sources. Sultanbeyli's location within the Istanbul Basin creates specific air quality challenges—surrounded by hills that can trap pollutants during temperature inversions, while its position downwind from the city center means it receives transported pollution from western districts. The high population density of 358,201 residents concentrated in a relatively small area generates significant vehicular emissions and residential heating pollution, exacerbated by the district's rapid urbanization and limited green spaces.

Sultanbeyli experiences distinct seasonal air quality patterns shaped by Istanbul's transitional climate between Mediterranean and oceanic influences. During winter months from December through February, air pollution typically reaches its peak due to several converging factors. Temperature inversions become frequent as cold air settles in the Istanbul Basin, trapping pollutants near the surface. Increased residential heating, particularly from coal and wood burning in older buildings, releases particulate matter and sulfur compounds. These months see reduced wind speeds and frequent fog formation, creating stagnant conditions that accumulate pollutants. Sensitive groups including children, elderly residents, and those with respiratory conditions should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during winter mornings when inversion layers are strongest. Spring brings gradual improvement as March through May sees increasing precipitation that helps wash pollutants from the atmosphere. Warmer temperatures reduce heating emissions while more frequent winds from the Black Sea provide ventilation. However, occasional Saharan dust episodes can temporarily degrade air quality. Summer months from June to August generally offer the cleanest air despite increased ozone formation from vehicle emissions reacting with sunlight. Sea breezes from the Marmara provide regular ventilation, though heat waves can occasionally create stagnant conditions. Autumn sees a transitional period where September and October maintain relatively good air quality before November brings the return of heating season and reduced atmospheric mixing. Throughout the year, traffic emissions remain a constant concern given Sultanbeyli's position along major transportation corridors connecting Asian and European sides of Istanbul.