WWTP Odour Buffer Methodology for WA EPA

PAE was engaged by the Western Australian EPA to develop a methodology for determining buffers around WWTPs. The study involved an extensive review and analysis of odour measurement, modelling and assessment throughout Australia and overseas, and involved a team of international experts providing specific inputs to PAE’s in-house experts. The end report contained a detailed review of WWTP odour sampling and measurement, source-specific odour emission rates, odour dispersion modelling methods, impact assessment criteria and methods for developing appropriate separation distances between WWTPs and sensitive receptors. Particular attention was given to major WWTPs in the Perth metropolitan area, which have been subject to extensive odour measurements, impact assessments and high-efficiency odour control systems.

South Lismore STP 

Lismore Water (NSW) engaged PAE to investigate odour emissions from the South Lismore STP, which had been causing complaints. We measured odour emissions from all major sources using a variety of methods and modelled odour dispersion using TAPM-CALPUFF. The study identified the main sources of complaint and identified and costed several options to control odours and achieve compliance with NSW EPA odour policy criteria.

Oxley Creek Odour Studies

PAE was engaged by Brisbane Water to conduct several major studies of odour emissions,controls and impacts at Oxley Creek WWTP. These included measurement surveys, modelling, investigating control options, and assessing the impact of odour emissions on nearby communities. More recently, PAE  performed odour assessments for the upgrade of Oxley Creek as part of a major EIS. This involved a community odour survey to establish suitable odour criteria for the project and modelling of the impacts using CALPUFF.

Hervey Bay WWTPs 

PAE has been engaged by Hervey Bay City Council to conduct various studies of odour emissions for two WWTPs in areas that are subject to expanding residential developments. The studies have involved odour emissions measurement on site and emissions estimation, dispersion modelling and assessment of the potential for odour to cause nuisance to the surrounding community.

Luggage Point WWTP 

PAE has provided advice to Brisbane Water on odour emissions arising from sludge management activities at Luggage Point. This included evaluation of odour emissions and their impacts offsite.

Ipswich City Council- Tivoli WWTP 

PAE was engaged by Ipswich City Council to investigate odour emissions and odour dispersion at a WWTP facility. This work involved the setting up of the CALPUFF dispersion model to predict odour levels in surrounding community areas and to provide an assessment of the need for odour reduction strategies.