How can you design an effective odor control system for a composting facility?

1 Odor prevention

The first step in designing an effective odor control system is to prevent or reduce the formation and release of odor-causing compounds in the composting process. Odor-causing compounds are mainly volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, and other reduced sulfur compounds. These compounds are produced by the microbial decomposition of organic matter under anaerobic or low-oxygen conditions. Therefore, to prevent odor formation, you need to ensure that the composting process is well-aerated, well-mixed, and well-balanced in terms of carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, moisture content, and pH. You also need to avoid overloading the composting facility with too much organic waste or waste with high moisture or nitrogen content.

2 Odor capture

The second step in designing an effective odor control system is to capture or contain the odor-causing compounds that are emitted from the composting process. Odor capture can be achieved by using physical barriers, such as covers, enclosures, or buildings, that isolate the composting piles or bins from the ambient air. These barriers can also reduce the exposure of the composting material to wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations, which can affect the composting process and odor generation. However, using physical barriers also requires adequate ventilation and air extraction systems to prevent the accumulation of heat, moisture, and gases inside the composting area.

4 Odor monitoring

The fourth step in designing an effective odor control system is to monitor or measure the odor emission and impact from the composting facility. Odor monitoring can be done by using instrumental or sensory methods, or a combination of both. Instrumental methods use devices, such as gas chromatographs, mass spectrometers, or electronic noses, to detect and quantify the odor-causing compounds or the odor concentration in the air. Sensory methods use human panelists, such as trained assessors or community members, to evaluate the odor intensity, character, or acceptability in the air. Odor monitoring can help you to evaluate the performance and efficiency of your odor control system, identify and troubleshoot any odor problems, and comply with the relevant odor standards and regulations.

5 Odor communication

The fifth step in designing an effective odor control system is to communicate or engage with the stakeholders and the public about the odor issue and the odor control measures from the composting facility. Odor communication can be done by using various channels, such as websites, newsletters, social media, or public meetings, to inform and educate the stakeholders and the public about the benefits and challenges of composting, the sources and characteristics of odor, the odor control system and its operation and maintenance, and the odor monitoring results and feedback mechanisms. Odor communication can help you to build trust and credibility, reduce misunderstanding and misinformation, and prevent or resolve odor complaints and conflicts.

6 Odor improvement

The sixth step in designing an effective odor control system is to improve or optimize your odor control system based on the feedback and data from the previous steps. Odor improvement can be done by using various tools, such as audits, surveys, or modeling, to identify and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your odor control system, the opportunities and threats from the external environment, and the best practices and innovations from the industry. Odor improvement can help you to enhance the performance and efficiency of your odor control system, reduce the costs and risks of your odor control system, and adapt to the changing needs and expectations of your stakeholders and the public.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?