Odour Studies - Mirrabooka Consulting

The term 'odour' is generally used to relate properties of a substance to the olfactory response it causes. Stimulation of the olfactory (and taste) cells induces 'approach' or 'avoidance' responses in the exposed individual. This helps to explain why odours are frequently described in emotive terms such as pleasant, unpleasant, sweet, offensive, foul, etc. Hence, the way in which odours are perceived has a direct influence on odour annoyance. The assessment of odour releases and corresponding judgements about the acceptability of such releases require reference to criteria principally aimed at avoiding nuisance impacts.

The occurrence of odour in the near vicinity of industrial, agricultural or municipal facilities is generally not considered to be an environmental problem unless the odour is noticeable and causes offence to persons off-site. However, in terms of complaints, odour is the single most contentious air quality issue in Australia. It is also often the most significant atmospheric release from many industrial, municipal and agricultural sources including foundries, food manufacturing plants, rendering plants, meatworks, paper mills, landfills, sewage treatment works, piggeries, broiler farms and feedlots. Odour impact assessment is therefore of great importance to many industries, local governments and State authorities. Such assessments require an understanding of odour plume behaviour, odour sampling and measurement techniques, odour assessment criteria and community response to odour annoyance.

Odour control technologies are relatively well developed, and for a price, most odour emissions are capable of being controlled to the degree necessary. The issue that faces managers responsible for dealing with odour complaints is how to adequately address and control emissions within budgetary and resource constraints. Often, a strategic approach is needed to manage complex technical, legal and community issues.

Mirrabooka Consulting is recognised for its practical, holistic approach to odour assessment and management. We have undertaken numerous odour studies for clients in a diverse range of industries including municipal landfills, fiberglass and chemical manufacturing, foundries, galvanising plants, intensive agriculture and asphalt plants. Our staff have presented odour assessment workshops for Australian Industry Group and prepared EMPs and management plans for odour remediation. In addition, Mirrabooka Consulting has made submissions, on behalf of clients, to the NSW EPA regarding odour assessment methodology. These submissions have subsequently been integrated into official EPA policy.