Application of field studies and geostatistical methods in assessment of odour nuisance based on selected examples from municipal, industrial and agricultural environments

In Europe and around the world, field studies conducted in areas surrounding the odour source are used for evaluating the odour nuisance and for emission studies. In Europe, the Standards of the Association of German Engineers (VDI) - VDI 3940 series - for grid and odour-plume measurements are used. Carrying out this type of research allows for the assessment of olfactory air quality in a ‘quantitative’ analysis by characterizing a particular odour in terms of its impact and its frequency. In addition, in order to analyse and visualize the distribution of odours occurring in a certain area, by using the results of field studies, the Geographical Information System (GIS) tools may be applied. The research methodology, including the results of field measurements and geostatistical analysis in the assessment of odour nuisance, could be very important tools for the determination and spatial interpolation of odour intensity distributions and studying the range of odorous plumes. This paper presents the results of field measurements and geostatistical analysis conducted for selected municipal, industrial and agricultural sectors objects.