We have an impeccable track record in odour and dust assessments having performed numerous impact studies for a range of facilities including intensive livestock operations, alumina refineries, wastewater treatment plants, landfills, foundries, rendering plants, food processing plants, coal-loading facilities, rail-links, breweries and chemical plants. 

We have also provided advice to regulatory authorities and industry groups on odour assessment, and have developed innovations in odour emissions estimation, model validation and assessment techniques. Over the years, we have developed best practice management techniques for controlling odour for industry bodies such as Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation, Australian Pork Limited and Meat & Livestock Australia.

Our internationally-recognised team of environmental specialists includes meteorologists and chemical engineers skilled and experienced in all aspects of odour impact assessment, such as measurement, dispersion modelling, field and survey methods, and community consultation. 

Best Practice in Odour and Dust Assessment 

The modelling of odour dispersion is a particularly important aspect, both for predicting the impacts of proposed facilities and identifying priorities for controlling odour sources at existing operations. 

Odour, once released from its source, is dispersed and diluted in the atmosphere. Important factors determining how it will be perceived by a receptor (e.g. local community) include the amount of odour emitted, the degree of dispersion and the resulting intensity, frequency and duration of odour events.

We use best practice techniques to model odour dispersion and dust concentration levels. Importantly, the critical weather conditions that cause most odour and dust emission problems are precisely the same conditions that are least accurately handled by dispersion models. Some models, notably the ‘standard’ Gaussian plume models such as AUSPLUME and ISC3, for example, are poorly suited to modelling conditions characterised by very light, stable flows that are strongly affected by terrain. We routinely and cost-effectively apply more advanced models that help overcome those limitations and provide the basis for best-practice assessments. These better models include CALPUFF and TAPM.

Accurate dispersion modelling relies heavily on valid inputs, which include data on odour emissions, meteorology, terrain and land use. Again, our expertise is a major advantage. With vast experience in this area, we know the best way to gather, develop, evaluate and apply the necessary data for a high quality result.

For major developments, we are experienced in setting up weather stations on site in order to gather site-specific meteorological information, which is highly valuable for accurate dispersion modelling.

Our solutions in dust management include impact assessments, dust monitoring and audits, and dust predictive schemes. We can offer advice on how to control and minimise dust emissions by implementing best farm management techniques. Using meteorological data, rainfall and evaporation information, we can develop predictive schemes which enable operators to predict dust events and customise their operations accordingly. 

In addition to dispersion modelling, we can also assist in other aspects of odour and dust assessment, such as:

• Conducting field monitoring
• Evaluating odour/dust control options 
• Advising and implementing best management and best engineering practices 
• Consulting with local communities 
• Providing expert testimony in legal proceedings 
• Instructing and training staff on odour issues.