Identifying the location of odour nuisance emitters using spatial GIS analyses

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Background:

• Odour nuisance is a significant environmental concern in urbanized areas.
• Accurate localization of odour emitters is crucial for effective management and mitigation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel GIS-based methodology for identifying odour emitter locations.
• To analyze odour nuisance based on measurement data, building arrangements, and spatial interpolation techniques.

Main Methods:

• Utilized QGIS software for spatial GIS analyses and odour emitter location analysis.
• Developed an algorithm analyzing vector elements, simulated odour streaks (wedge buffer surfaces), and a grid of points.
• Applied Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation and an innovative inversed method of fragrance streak propagation.
• Conducted field studies involving sensory evaluation and odour concentration tests using a NasalRanger olfactometer.

Main Results:

• The developed method effectively identifies odour emitter locations by analyzing odour streaks and considering wind direction and speed.
• The inversed fragrance streak propagation method shows promise for improved accuracy compared to traditional interpolation methods.
• Field studies provided sensory data on odour nuisance intensity in an urbanized environment.

Conclusions:

• The novel GIS-based approach, incorporating wind data, provides a more efficient and accurate method for locating odour emitters, especially in large open areas.
• This methodology offers a valuable tool for environmental management and urban planning to address odour pollution.