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Tavşanlı, nestled in the Kütahya Province of Turkey, occupies a geographically significant position within the country’s interior. Located at coordinates 39.5333° N, 29.4833° E, the city sits at an elevation of approximately 988 meters (3241 feet) above sea level, contributing to a cooler climate and influencing air dispersion patterns. The surrounding landscape is characterised by rolling hills and plateaus, typical of the Anatolian plateau, with the city itself situated within a valley. This topography can exacerbate pollution events, trapping emissions during periods of calm weather. Tavşanlı is not directly adjacent to major bodies of water, though smaller streams and rivers traverse the region, providing limited natural flushing of pollutants. The area is predominantly agricultural, with significant cultivation of grains, fruits, and vegetables, and also hosts some localised industrial activity, primarily related to food processing and light manufacturing. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural lands immediately bordering the city limits. This proximity means agricultural practices, including the use of fertilizers and potential burning of agricultural waste, can contribute to particulate matter concentrations. The prevailing winds, influenced by the regional climate, play a crucial role in pollutant transport and dispersion, often channeling air masses through the valley.

Tavşanlı experiences a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations that profoundly impact 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) sees improving conditions as temperatures rise and precipitation increases, washing away accumulated pollutants. However, agricultural burning begins in this period, potentially elevating particulate matter levels. Summers (June-August) are warm and dry, with generally good air quality due to increased atmospheric mixing and reduced heating demands. However, prolonged drought conditions can lead to dust storms, increasing PM10 concentrations. Autumn (September-November) is a transitional period. As heating season approaches, pollution levels begin to rise again, and the risk of temperature inversions increases. October and November often see a build-up of pollutants before the onset of winter. Sensitive groups – 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 can accumulate downwind of emission sources.