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Akşehir, nestled within the Konya Province of Turkey, occupies a geographically significant position in the Central Anatolian region. Located at approximately 38.3575° latitude and 31.4164° longitude, the city sits at an elevation of around 916 meters (3,005 feet) above sea level, contributing to a generally drier climate. The surrounding landscape is characterized by expansive plains and gently rolling hills, typical of the Anatolian plateau. This terrain, while visually appealing, can exacerbate air quality challenges. Akşehir is situated near Lake Beyşehir, a large freshwater lake that plays a crucial role in the regional ecosystem and influences local microclimates. However, the lake's impact on air quality is complex; while it can provide some evaporative cooling, it also contributes to humidity and potential fog formation, which can trap pollutants under certain conditions. The city’s urban fabric is a blend of historical Ottoman architecture and modern development, with a gradual urban-rural gradient extending outwards. Agriculture is a dominant land use in the surrounding areas, with extensive fields dedicated to wheat, barley, and pulses. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, Akşehir serves as a regional hub for agricultural processing and related industries, which can contribute to localized emissions. The relatively flat topography and inland location limit natural ventilation, potentially leading to pollutant accumulation, particularly during periods of stagnant air. The city’s position within a broad, open plain means it is susceptible to long-range transport of pollutants from other regions of Turkey and even beyond.

Akşehir’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by its continental climate. Summers (June-August) are typically hot and dry, with minimal rainfall. This dryness, coupled with high temperatures, often leads to stagnant air conditions and increased photochemical smog formation, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. Agricultural activities, including harvesting and the use of machinery, contribute to particulate matter during this period. Autumn (September-November) brings a gradual cooling and increased precipitation, which helps to cleanse the air and reduce pollution levels. However, the transition period can see occasional temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground, especially in calmer weather. Winter (December-February) is the most challenging season for air quality. Cold temperatures and frequent fog events, facilitated by the proximity to Lake Beyşehir, significantly reduce atmospheric mixing and trap pollutants. Residential heating, often reliant on solid fuels, adds to the particulate burden. Spring (March-May) offers the most favourable conditions, with increasing temperatures, more frequent rainfall, and improved ventilation, leading to a noticeable improvement in air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter and summer months, limiting outdoor exertion during peak pollution times. During the autumn transition, monitoring local weather forecasts for temperature inversion warnings is advisable. Agricultural workers should be particularly mindful of dust exposure during harvest seasons, utilizing appropriate protective equipment.