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Muratlı, nestled within the Tekirdağ Province of Turkey, occupies a strategically important position in the Marmara Region, approximately 70 kilometers east of Istanbul. Its coordinates (41.1742, 27.5086) place it within a gently undulating terrain, characterized by fertile plains and rolling hills, a legacy of the Thracian Plain. The city sits at a relatively low elevation, averaging around 65 meters above sea level, which can contribute to the trapping of pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. Muratlı’s location is significant due to its proximity to both agricultural lands and burgeoning industrial zones, particularly those associated with the wider Istanbul metropolitan area. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive fields of sunflowers, wheat, and corn dominating the view, contributing to seasonal biomass burning. To the south, the landscape gradually rises towards the Balkan Mountains, influencing regional wind patterns. The urban–rural gradient around Muratlı is relatively sharp; the city itself is a growing municipality, but it quickly transitions to rural farmland. The proximity to the Marmara Sea, approximately 30 kilometers to the west, introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures but also potentially carrying marine aerosols. This combination of agricultural activity, industrial proximity, and a low-lying, relatively flat topography creates a complex environment where air quality is susceptible to both local and regional pollution sources, and where meteorological factors play a crucial role in pollutant dispersion.

Muratlı’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by regional weather patterns and agricultural practices. Spring (March-May) often sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds increase, dispersing accumulated winter pollutants. However, this period also coincides with the start of agricultural activities, including fertilizer application and, occasionally, controlled burning of crop residues, which can contribute to localized spikes in particulate matter. Summer (June-August) typically brings drier conditions and higher temperatures, which can exacerbate ozone formation, a secondary pollutant created by sunlight reacting with nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. The lack of significant rainfall during these months can also lead to a build-up of pollutants. Autumn (September-November) is often the most challenging period, with cooler temperatures and frequent temperature inversions trapping pollutants close to the ground, particularly during calmer days. Agricultural burning also intensifies during this season. Winter (December-February) brings colder temperatures and increased humidity, which can lead to fog formation, further hindering pollutant dispersion and creating stagnant air conditions. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during autumn and winter months, limiting outdoor activity on days with poor visibility or stagnant air. Spring offers a window for increased outdoor activity, but awareness of agricultural practices is crucial. Summer requires vigilance regarding ozone levels, especially during heatwaves.