Communities globally are increasingly concerned about unpleasant smells emanating from industrial sites, with demand rising for technologies to monitor and prevent them. Odour consultant Micheal Bull, speaking about his experiences in the UK, noted that developments are being built closer to odorous processes as land becomes more valuable.
Technologies designed to address industrial odours typically absorb them, convert them into less odorous substances through chemical reactions, or burn them away. Experts in industrial odour control suggest that the most effective technologies, when properly implemented, can remove 90% or more of the specific compounds causing the smells.
In Des Moines, Iowa, authorities are spending approximately $240,000 (£182,000) annually on technology to track odours, following a study that identified industrial meat companies as potential culprits. This system uses monitors and a weather station to provide real-time data on chemical compound concentrations, helping to pinpoint the source of complaints.
Some facilities in Des Moines have also invested significantly in upgrading their odour control systems. Smithfield Foods, a meat processing operator in Des Moines, stated it has invested $2m to install a regenerative thermal oxidiser to destroy chemicals associated with bad smells, though the company maintains it is not the source of odour complaints.