MACOM Environment & Energy air quality has the strong capability with experience in odour modeling.

Regulatory Control

Odorous emissions may be subject to stringent local planning authority controls;  odour nuisance complaints could lead to abatement notices, fines and possibly closure.  The international guidance defines the concept of odour nuisance and discusses responsibilities for odour management, although control and mitigation have also been published for specific industries, such as intensive livestock management and waste water treatment.

Odour Modelling

Odour modelling is undertaken using Dispersion Models to predict the short and long-term impacts resultant from the emission of odour, and the likelihood of a nuisance impact at sensitive receptors outside the site boundary.

The likelihood of a nuisance impact at sensitive receptors can be predicted by undertaking dispersion modelling, for which we use the widely accepted Dispersion models.  Emission rates are quantified in terms of mass emissions of identified pollutants or as odour units based on olfactometry surveys.  Predicted concentrations in terms of maximum concentrations or 98^th percentile of hourly concentrations are then compared with criteria for odour nuisance or health. Through this, any areas or sensitive locations that could exceed the criteria are identified.

Our odour sampling work is undertaken in accordance with the guidance and methodology defined in EN13725:2003 (BS, 2003), ‘Determination of odour concentration by dynamic olfactometry’.

Mitigation and Control

Technical guidances published by Environment Agencies and operators discuss general approaches to odour mitigation, as well as controls for specific processes and odour sources, including livestock management, composting and waste treatment.  MACOM can advise on mitigation strategies and also work closely with engineering consultants to determine appropriate and cost-effective mitigation options.  MACOM can also liaise with Environmental Health Teams to ensure that the mitigation will meet the local authority’s requirements.

A high level of due-diligence is expected on the part of the operator, and Best Available Technique (BAT) is often cited.  MACOM can work with the operator to define an Odour Management Plan and identify potential alternatives to BAT which do not entail an excessive cost, whilst also being acceptable to the